In a tense encounter, angry residents of the Valencia region booed and threw eggs at Spain’s King Felipe and Queen Letizia as they visited areas affected by devastating floods that have claimed over 200 lives.
The royal couple, accompanied by Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and regional governor Carlos Mazon, faced chants of “murderer” as they toured hard-hit Paiporta, just outside of Valencia city. Locals expressed their frustration over what they perceive as a slow and inadequate governmental response to the disaster.
Following a photo opportunity, the crowd began hurling insults at the king, Mazon, and Sanchez. Security personnel attempted to shield them with umbrellas as the situation escalated. King Felipe remained calm in the face of adversity and lowered his umbrella to listen to one agitated resident, while Queen Letizia was visibly shaken, holding her head in her hands.
After the protest, a video released by the Royal Family showed the king and queen comforting distressed residents. One man was seen weeping in the king’s embrace, while the king hugged two crying women, highlighting the emotional toll of the unfolding crisis.
It is uncommon for a Spanish monarch to encounter such public anger. King Felipe, who ascended the throne following his father’s abdication, usually enjoys a relatively favorable reputation. Most of the anger was directed at Mazon and Sanchez, both of whom left the scene early, even as the king chose to remain amidst the turmoil.
Sanchez’s office stated that the prime minister’s departure was due to security protocols. Upon reflecting on the public frustration, Sanchez acknowledged that the government’s response was “not enough.”
As the death toll from the floods rises, the slow and uncoordinated official reaction has further incensed residents. Many in Valencia criticized delayed text alerts warning of the flooding.
On Saturday, Sanchez ordered an additional 5,000 troops to assist in recovery efforts, branding the storm as the “worst natural disaster” in the country’s history.
Authorities are now urging residents to take shelter as new rainfalls are expected, with the Spanish Weather Agency raising alerts to the highest level in coastal Valencia. Videos shared by locals captured police advising residents to stay indoors near local ravines.
The lack of preparedness became evident as thousands of volunteers answered the provincial government’s call for help to clear debris, only to find supplies running low and a scramble for transportation.
Pedro de Juan, a young volunteer who arrived early to assist, expressed widespread frustration: “It’s incredible how the government passes the blame instead of taking responsibility. But now we need to come together and help each other.”
While military and police efforts are present, many residents feel they are arriving too late to make a significant impact.
Credit: CNN
