Prime Minister Sánchez's multi-front approach is a realistic response to competing national interests. Seeking more Algerian gas ensures energy security and stable prices for Spanish households and businesses, especially as winter approaches. Supporting EU regulations may seem contradictory, but Madrid's push for flexible implementation could protect its supply while advancing climate goals.
The deportation alliance, while controversial, addresses a real crisis. By cooperating with other EU states, Spain can share the burden of processing and returning migrants who have no legal right to stay, potentially reducing irregular crossings in the Mediterranean. On Israel, Spain's criticism of settler violence aligns with the EU's long-standing position and may encourage moderation. Similarly, standing by Venezuela maintains influence in a strategically important region and supports millions of Venezuelan refugees in Spain.
These decisions are not hypocritical; they reflect nuanced diplomacy where short-term trade-offs serve long-term stability. Sánchez is avoiding ideological rigidity and instead engaging with each issue on its merits, which is what voters expect from a government that must manage both domestic and international pressures.