Ayuso's Warning: 'Dictatorships Enter in Sips' at Massive Madrid Rally

Madrid Rally: Ayuso Warns of 'Creeping Dictatorship,' Citing Basque University Name Change A large demonstration took place in Madrid on June 8th, 2025, organized by Spain's Popular Party (PP). The event was notable for a speech by Community of Madrid President Isabel Díaz Ayuso. Ayuso used the recent decision to remove the Spanish name from the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) as a metaphor for the gradual erosion of democratic freedoms. She stated, "Dictatorships enter in sips; little by little, in a seemingly inoffensive way." This comment, delivered with evident passion, was met with enthusiastic applause from the large crowd, many of whom held Spanish flags. The video footage shows the immense size of the demonstration, highlighting the significant public interest in the issue. Ayuso’s speech has generated considerable debate regarding the political climate in Spain and interpretations of the UPV/EHU name change. The demonstration itself serves as a visual representation of the strength of feeling surrounding these topics. The event underscores the ongoing political tensions and the diverse perspectives within Spanish society.