Spain slams 'selfish' European Union, sets up floating barriers in Ceuta after deadly migrant rush
Spain has begun installing floating barriers in Ceuta following a massive, deadly influx of migrants from Morocco. The incident has sparked diplomatic tension within the EU, with Spain criticizing Italy's decision to suspend Schengen travel arrangements in response to the crisis.
Why it matters
This event highlights the ongoing challenges of border security and migration management within the European Union, testing the bloc's unity and internal travel policies.
Security forces escort migrants in Ceuta, Spain, following recent mass crossings. ( Reuters: Violeta Santos Moura )
More than 48,000 of the 50,000 people who crossed into Ceuta by land and sea last week have returned to Morocco.
European Union member states have asked for a coordinated action to protect external borders.
Spain says Morocco is not a threat, and the people who entered Ceuta irregularly cannot travel onwards to mainland Spain or elsewhere in the Schengen Area.
Link copied Share Share article Spain has said migrant crossings into its North African enclave of Ceuta stopped overnight, as police began installing a 500-metre floating barrier on Saturday off its border with Morocco, following a mass rush that killed at least 67 people.
The mass crossing caused alarm across the European Union (EU), prompting 22 member states to ask for coordinated action to protect external borders and other measures.
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