A new migration crisis has caused clashes between European Union countries, after Italy decided to suspend the Schengen agreement with Spain, which is facing a large influx of migrants from Morocco.
According to reported data, around 60,000 migrants have crossed into the Spanish enclave within 24 hours, creating a difficult situation for local authorities.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has held the Spanish government responsible for managing the crisis and has supported restrictive measures against Spain. Rome’s decision has also been supported by several other European countries, which have called for the European Union to consider suspending Schengen.
Poland, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, the Czech Republic and other countries have requested an assessment of the situation, raising concerns about the control of the EU’s external borders.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reacted to the situation in the enclave of Ceuta, stating that irregular border crossings must be stopped.
“The images coming from Ceuta are unacceptable. We cannot allow anyone to enter the union without respecting our rules. Dangerous crossings must be stopped and migrants must be returned as soon as possible,” she said.
Meanwhile, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron have expressed solidarity with Madrid, but have also stressed the need to strengthen border control.
On the other hand, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has reacted to the criticism, defending his government’s position.
“Solidarity and empathy are optional, but respect for the European Union treaties is not,” Sánchez declared.
The migration crisis has divided EU countries, with some governments demanding tougher border measures and others calling for European coordination and solidarity.