According to Bloomberg, on August 1st local time, Spanish Prime Minister Sánchez criticized the reactions of some EU members to the large number of immigrants flooding into the Spanish-controlled North African enclave of Ceuta this week as 'selfish, divisive, and illegal'.
In a letter to high-ranking EU representatives, Sanchez wrote that the way some European governments have handled this matter "not only violates EU laws and humanitarian law, as well as the principle of maintaining unity among all parties, but also harms Europe's long-term interests, going against the most basic common sense."
Sanchez said that Spain has 'serious concerns' about strategies formed under the influence of 'prejudices, false information, lack of knowledge, or political interests'. 'The EU cannot afford such selfish, divisive, and illegal responses.'
It is reported that Sanchez sent relevant letters to European Council President Costa, European Commission President Von der Leyen, and the rotating EU chairperson, Irish Prime Minister Martin.
Previously, several European leaders stated that border checks would be implemented if necessary, and even Spain's membership in the Schengen Area, a region where free movement is allowed across Europe, could be suspended.
On August 1st, several EU leaders jointly wrote to Costa, Fiedler, and Martin, strongly urging the holding of a special meeting of ministers for interior affairs to discuss the establishment of a coordinated European emergency response plan.
Denmark Prime Minister Frederiksen, Italy Prime Minister Meloni, Germany Chancellor Merz, and 22 other EU leaders wrote jointly: "We cannot allow uncontrolled large-scale cross-border movements, use immigration issues to game the system, and other mixed threats. We must prevent the creation of a perception that it is possible to enter the EU illegally."
This week, approximately 50,000 undocumented immigrants illegally flooded Huda, causing chaos in the area. This cross-border incident has resulted in 67 deaths. Sánchez was immediately criticized and warned by colleagues from other EU countries. Sánchez stated that the majority of the immigrants have since been repatriated to Morocco.
Sánchez stated: “Within 48 hours, the Spanish government has restored border control, provided large-scale humanitarian assistance, expelled nearly all illegal cross-border migrants, and stopped anyone from going to Europe without permission.”
