BRUSSELS – Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez faced sharp criticism from fellow European Union leaders on Tuesday over his handling of a migrant surge in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, which saw tens of thousands of people arrive last week.
An estimated 50,000 to 60,000 migrants crossed into Ceuta from Morocco on Thursday and Friday, sparking a humanitarian crisis. Spanish and Moroccan authorities reported that more than 80 migrants died, including some who drowned or were trampled in a stampede.
Open letters from leaders of 22 EU countries blamed Sanchez's progressive policies for the incident, citing a Spanish court ruling that barred summary deportation of migrants arriving by sea. Sanchez dismissed the criticism as politically motivated, noting that most migrants were returned within hours in coordination with Moroccan authorities.
Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni issued the most blunt rebuke, announcing plans for air and sea border controls with Spain and pushing for migrant screening centers outside the EU. Sanchez retorted that Italy's stance was 'contrary to European law, humanitarian law, and the principles of solidarity.'
The dispute highlights deep divisions within the EU over migration, even as overall crossings have fallen. Frontex data shows a 37% drop in the first half of 2026 compared to the same period last year.
Source: clickondetroit.com
