Spanish pensioner jailed 18 years

Pompeyo Gonzalez Pascual, a 76-year-old pensioner, has been sentenced to 18 years in prison by Spain's National Court for sending letter bombs to various high-profile targets, including Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and the embassies of the US and Ukraine. Convicted of terrorism and manufacturing explosives, Gonzalez aimed to pressure Spain and the US to cease their support for Ukraine following Russia's invasion. The court highlighted that his actions were intended to create societal upheaval, evidenced by searches on his computer for explosive device preparation and his engagement with pro-Russian propaganda. Security staff intercepted most packages, but a staff member at the Ukrainian embassy was injured from one blast. Despite his claims of curiosity-driven motivations, the overwhelming evidence against him led to a conviction. Gonzalez can still appeal the decision, while the Spanish government maintains its support for Ukraine amidst ongoing military assistance.