Pedro Sánchez: "You are the best version of Spain and a living example of the values of dedication and solidarity that define our country"

Moncloa Palace, Madrid

The President of the Government of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, during the videoconference with Spanish units on humanitarian and peacekeeping missions abroad (Pool Moncloa/Borja Puig de la Bellacasa)

The President of the Government of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, held the traditional Christmas videoconference with Spanish units on humanitarian and peacekeeping missions abroad, accompanied by the Minister for Defence and the Chief of the Defence Staff. In his speech, the head of the Executive expressed the "deep gratitude" of the Government and Spanish society for the work carried out by these military personnel: "You are the best version of Spain and a living example of the values of dedication and solidarity that define our country as an active, committed member of the international community.

The president stressed that the Spanish military "have once again dedicated yourselves to protecting Spain and have contributed through your work to peace and international security, which are so important today".

Within national borders, Pedro Sánchez praised their example of "selflessness" and "effectiveness" in "very difficult" situations, such as the "devastating wildfires last summer": "Your presence alone brought confidence, security and hope to the people. You can, therefore, feel immense pride in this".

The President of the Government of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, and the Minister for Defence, Margarita Robles, during the video call | Pool Moncloa/Borja Puig de la Bellacasa

Abroad, President Sánchez continued, "you remain the best example of Spain's commitment and effort to preserve peace". With regard to the war in Ukraine, he stressed that this conflict "continues to capture international attention after almost four years of an illegal and unjustified invasion and the ongoing suffering of its population. The threats to Europe, unfortunately, persist. That is why your presence in Slovakia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Romania is essential to demonstrate firmness and determination in the face of provocations from Putin's Russia".

In the Middle East, "the situation remains unstable and critical, despite the ceasefire and the ongoing negotiations for the next phase of the peace plan. I am aware of the extraordinary work and excellent morale of our contingent in Lebanon, which, incidentally, was recently visited again by the Minister for Defense and the Chief of the Defence Staff (JEMAD). Your situation there remains complicated, due to continuing violations of the agreement. This makes your mission all the more necessary, and it's important that we keep you especially in mind within the framework of the United Nations".

More than 20,000 military personnel in 2025

After highlighting the work carried out by the various missions in other parts of the world, such as Africa and Latin America, the president emphasised that "more than 20,000 military personnel will have participated in missions outside our borders in 2025, a figure that alone illustrates our country's commitment to peace and international security and to a rules-based multilateral order. A commitment for which 175 men and women have given their lives in these 36 years of missions abroad. At all times, but especially at this time of year, we keep them very much in our thoughts and pay a well-deserved tribute to their memory".

The President of the Government of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, speaks with Spanish troops alongside the Chief of the Defence Staff, Teodoro Esteban, and the Minister for Defence, Margarita Robles | Pool Moncloa/Borja Puig de la Bellacasa

Pedro Sánchez acknowledged that, "many of you will be spending Christmas Eve away from home". There are no words, therefore, that can soothe the longing for home, nor shorten the distance that separates you from your families and loved ones on these days. But rest assured that the effort is worthwhile, that you have the gratitude of an entire country whose flag you carry with dignity and pride throughout the world". He wished them "happy holidays and every success in fulfilling your mission. And may this year 2026 finally bring peace to so many corners of the world in need of it. That peace to which you contribute every day, wherever you are".

The videoconference concluded with a few words from the Minister for Defence, Margarita Robles, who also wished the Spanish military personnel abroad a Merry Christmas: "You are all a source of pride. The work you are doing for peace, for security, in humanitarian missions, is an example for us all".

Non official translation