Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been summoned by a Madrid court for a conciliation hearing on February 12. The case stems from a defamation claim by Alberto González Amador, the partner of Madrid's regional president, Isabel Díaz Ayuso.

Sánchez referred to Amador as a "confessed criminal" in October, citing his admission of tax fraud during negotiations with prosecutors.

Amador, who is under investigation for alleged tax fraud linked to pandemic mask sales, is demanding a public retraction and €100,000 in damages.

Sánchez is not obligated to attend the hearing personally, but Amador has vowed to file a formal lawsuit if no representation is made.