The European Union will hold an emergency meeting of interior ministers following the Ceuta migration crisis. The meeting comes after Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez criticized the bloc’s response.
Sánchez accused some EU countries, particularly Italy, of acting selfishly instead of showing solidarity. He also described their response as polarizing and unlawful.
The extraordinary meeting follows the arrival of more than 50,000 irregular migrants in the Spanish enclave. Consequently, the crisis has intensified political divisions across Europe.
Spain Defends Response To Border Crisis
EU officials and Frontex representatives held an emergency session on Saturday to assess the situation. Meanwhile, Spain announced plans to install a new sea barrier along the Ceuta breakwater.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he had spoken with Sánchez and offered assistance. Furthermore, Spanish authorities said most migrants had already returned to Morocco.
According to officials, more than 48,000 people voluntarily returned by Friday evening. However, several thousand migrants remain inside Ceuta awaiting repatriation.
Political Tensions Grow Across Europe
At least 67 people reportedly died while attempting the dangerous crossing into Ceuta. Many drowned, while others were crushed near the border barrier.
Sánchez said Spain prevented unauthorized onward movement into mainland Europe. However, Italy and other countries called for tougher measures, with some proposing Spain’s suspension from the Schengen zone.
Ceuta President Juan Jesús Vivas urged authorities to maintain heightened security across the territory. Therefore, the migration surge continues fueling debate over European border security and asylum policies.
