Coalition negotiations in Spain.
Attempts to form a government following the repeat election on June 26 remain fraught with difficulties. Although negotiations between the Popular Party (PP) and the Citizens party are under way, the Socialist Party (PSOE) has so far refused to support Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy. Assistance from both Citizens and the PSOE is essential to the success of his efforts to form a minority government.
Another failure by the political parties to deliver a government outcome would prompt moves for renewal to regain public credibility.
Lacking an effective political response, Rajoy will continue to use the constitutional court to punish Catalan pro-independence efforts.
Regional elections in the Basque Country and Galicia on September 25 will complicate negotiations between the PP and its electoral rivals.
