Catalan Separatist Leader Puigdemont to Return from Exile

Carles Puigdemont, the Catalan separatist leader, announced on Wednesday his return to Spain after seven years of self-imposed exile. His comeback could result in immediate arrest for his role in Catalonia's 2017 independence attempt, potentially inciting fresh turmoil in the region and impacting Spain's Socialist-led coalition government.

Spain's parliament had previously approved an amnesty law to ease Puigdemont's return. However, the Supreme Court ruled that the law does not cover his embezzlement charge, maintaining the arrest warrant against him. Despite this, Puigdemont plans to attend the swearing-in session for Catalonia's new leader following the May election, where he finished second.

The appointment of Socialist Salvador Illa as the new Catalan president could mark the end of over a decade of separatist rule. Puigdemont's arrival could lead to a dramatic arrest as his supporters welcome him near the parliament, while moderate separatist Esquerra Republicana de Catalunya views it as an 'exceptional moment.'

(With inputs from agencies.)