Ayuso Snubs García's Kiss Amid Pandemic Row at Barcelona Conference

Tensions Flare at Barcelona Conference: Ayuso Rejects García's Greeting Amid Pandemic Dispute Barcelona, Spain – A brief but highly charged encounter unfolded today between Spanish Minister of Health Mónica García and Madrid's President Isabel Díaz Ayuso at the annual Presidents' Conference in Barcelona. The incident, captured on video, shows Ayuso pointedly refusing the traditional greeting of two kisses on the cheeks, offered by García. The refusal underscored the deep political divisions between the two women. The video shows the two women facing each other, with Ayuso visibly uncomfortable. A witness reports that Ayuso's refusal was accompanied by a statement to the effect of "I'm not kissing someone who signed death sentences." This refers to the ongoing controversy surrounding the management of nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic in Madrid, a topic that remains highly sensitive and politically charged. Despite the tension, protocol staff quickly intervened, separating the two politicians and preventing further escalation. The incident, however, is likely to add fuel to the already intense political debate surrounding the pandemic’s handling in Spain. The video's widespread circulation on social media highlights the public's interest in this ongoing political drama.