Politics · August 2026

On August 1, 2026, a surge of migrants overran the Spanish North African enclave of Ceuta, prompting 22 EU heads of state and government to sign an open letter calling for emergency talks. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez criticized the 'selfish' response of some countries, while EU interior ministers are set to meet on Tuesday to discuss the situation. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and other leaders urged European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for a coordinated EU response, with France notably absent from the initiative. Most migrants have already left Ceuta, and Italy has temporarily introduced border controls. (ongoing coverage) Danish Prime Minister suggested the EU should consider suspending Spain over the migrant crisis. A former Brexit chief claimed the chaos in Ceuta vindicates the UK's departure from the EU. The EU affirmed its support for Egypt following a drone attack on ships in Damietta Port. Switzerland seeks closer ties with the EU.