The former Catalan leader was released on bail from a German prison earlier today. Carles Puigdemont called on Spanish authorities to begin talks with politicians in Catalonia.  

CARLES PUIGDEMONT FORMER CATALAN PRESIDENT "I claim for the immediate release for all of my colleagues still in Spanish prisons. It's a shame for Europe to have political prisoners. I always trust in European democracy based on the will of the people, separation of powers, peace and human rights. That kind of democracy is in risk in Spain."

In his statement, Puigdemont stressed it was time to "find a political solution", adding that Catalan leaders have demanded talks for six years but had "only received a violent and repressive response". Late on Thursday, a German court refused to authorize Puigdemont's extradition to Spain to face rebellion charges. It ordered his release on bail pending a ruling on a lesser corruption charge. The Spanish government said it respected the decision.