Politics

Spanish Transport Minister Óscar Puente resigns after deadly train crash

After a train accident that left 69 dead, Spain's Transport Minister Óscar Puente has announced his resignation. He will also not stand in the upcoming elections.

4 November 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Spanish Transport Minister Óscar Puente resigns after deadly train crash — Archive photoPhoto: Iglesia en Valladolid · Flickr · BY-SA

Spanish Transport Minister Óscar Puente has announced his resignation following a severe train accident that resulted in the deaths of 69 people. This resignation comes after a year in which two deadly train accidents in Spain had high casualty figures.

Puente announced his resignation during a hearing before the parliamentary committee in Madrid. According to reports, he previously stated that it was untenable to remain in office after such tragic events.

In addition to stepping down as minister, Puente has decided not to run for re-election in the upcoming parliamentary elections on November 29. This came after he had previously expressed interest in another term.

The minister, who initially was reluctant to take responsibility for his position, emphasized the importance of political dignity in his announcement. This statement followed repeated pressure from various opposition parties.

The train accident that led to his resignation occurred on October 28. The government has already announced plans to examine and potentially implement measures to improve safety in rail transport.

The tragedy and the ensuing resignation have reignited political discussions in Spain, while a support measure for the victims has also been announced. Details about these support measures are not yet fully known.

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