Former Spanish President José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero has broken his silence following his indictment, claiming the expensive jewelry he received was merely a “courtesy gift.” In his first interview since being formally accused, Zapatero vehemently denied any involvement in the bailout of airline Plus Ultra, stating he did not discuss the matter with anyone within the government or the state holding company SEPI. He also refuted allegations that he instructed the creation of an offshore company. Zapatero defended the payments made to the company owned by his daughters as legal and proper. He further announced his intention to request a counter-analysis to determine the true value of the jewelry, suggesting it may be less than reported. The statements form part of his ongoing defense against accusations of influence peddling and corruption.