Spain's transport minister resigns after train crash kills 69

· Politics · Spain

Spain's Transport Minister Óscar Puente resigned and withdrew from the upcoming general election after a high-speed train collision south of Madrid killed 69 people, one of the worst railway disasters in Europe this century. Puente had earlier pledged to stay on. Authorities have identified all 69 victims, including two Australians and a Japanese citizen, and NHK reported the identification process is complete. Spain will also reduce trains on the Madrid-Seville line until a European management system is installed, following two fatal crashes on the line this year.

Why it matters：The resignation shows how a transport disaster is reshaping Spanish politics before an election, while the service cuts and safety review highlight rail-safety questions across Europe.

Key points

  • Óscar Puente resigned and withdrew from the upcoming election.
  • All 69 victims have been identified, including foreigners.
  • Trains on the Madrid-Seville line will be reduced pending a new European management system.

Sources (original reporting)

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