Von Der Leyen Attempts To Defuse Ceuta Crisis In Letter To Spain’s PM Sánchez

Key Takeaways:
Ursula von der Leyen praised Spain’s handling of the 60,000 migrant arrivals in Ceuta, saying Spanish and Moroccan authorities efficiently prevented further illegal movement into mainland Europe.
She used the incident to call for stronger EU border controls, including physical barriers, better monitoring, early warning systems, dismantling smuggling networks, and faster deportations.
While describing Morocco as an important partner, von der Leyen warned the EU would not tolerate migration being used as political pressure and suggested a strategic discussion at the October European Council.






