Sanchez's Socialists won April elections but failed to secure a majority, meaning they require the support of several smaller parties to form a government. The Socialists, seeking to rule in minority, have refused Podemos' demand for a coalition government, leading to a deadlock in talks. A Podemos source said the meeting showed that Sanchez remained undecided whether he wished to form a pact with the leftist parties or rely on support from conservatives to be sworn in. Spain's Socialists have promised to move forward with the swearing-in vote in July, which will trigger a two-month countdown to form a government. If they cannot win guarantees of parliamentary support from other parties, further elections will take place.

Source: ABC News May 14, 2024 22:12 UTC