Spain Slams European Criticism After Deadly Ceuta Migrant Crossing Leaves 77 Dead

Spain has condemned what it described as the "selfish, polarising and unlawful" response of some European countries following the mass arrival of an estimated 60,000 migrants from Morocco into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta.

The death toll from the tragedy has climbed to 77 after chaotic scenes unfolded on Thursday and Friday. Many migrants reportedly drowned while attempting to swim across the border, while others were killed in a stampede as crowds rushed to cross a breakwater barrier into the enclave.

Spain's Interior Minister said the situation was gradually returning to normal, adding that most of the undocumented migrants had already been returned to Morocco under existing migration agreements.

The crisis has prompted a strong reaction across Europe. Italy announced the temporary suspension of the European Union's border-free Schengen arrangements with Spain and tightened security along the Franco-Italian land border.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described the events in Ceuta as "shocking", saying stronger measures were needed to protect Europe's external borders. Responding to the criticism, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez accused some European governments of exploiting the tragedy for political gain.

According to Sánchez, the attacks on Spain were "driven by prejudice, fake news, ignorance, or political interest," insisting that his government was managing the crisis responsibly.

The migrant surge also drew comments from United States President Donald Trump, who described the situation as a "catastrophe."

Speaking during a cabinet meeting, Trump said, "I saw Spain yesterday, and I watched the catastrophe that took place. It looks like an invasion of a country."

The incident has reignited debate across Europe over migration policy, border security, and cooperation among EU member states as authorities continue efforts to restore order in Ceuta.