The U.S. White House criticized Spain’s left-leaning government following a border incident between Spain’s North African enclave Ceuta and Morocco, where the border effectively collapsed. Principal Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly stated that President Trump had long warned Europe about the dangers of implementing far-left policies, such as enabling mass migration. She urged such countries to reconsider their strategies or face serious consequences.
Ceuta’s President Juan Jesús Vivas formally requested a national emergency due to more than 2,000 migrants crossing from Morocco in just ten days. Videos showed chaotic scenes as migrants entered the Spanish territory, overwhelming local authorities. Many arrived on foot after swimming from Morocco and were seen interacting with cameras while authorities struggled to control the situation.
Spain’s Ministry of the Interior did not declare a national emergency, citing that immigration does not constitute a risk under the state civil protection regulations. Therefore, they noted, activating emergency measures specifically for migration management was not possible.
Nevertheless, Sánchez assured that the Spanish government is actively seeking to normalize the situation. He stated that Spain is deploying necessary resources and collaborating with Moroccan and international entities to manage the border crisis.
Sánchez has faced criticism from conservatives within Spain, who argue that policies providing social services to underage migrants encourage increased migration. Conservative journalist Javier Negre criticized these policies, claiming they lead to financial burdens on the Spanish state, which supports minors who enter illegally.
In response, Sánchez has argued the necessity of immigration for Spain’s economy, citing low birth rates and the need for population growth. He wrote that without migration, economies and public services will suffer due to demographic decline, stagnant GDP, and threatened healthcare and pension systems.
Fox News reached out to both Sánchez and Vivas for additional comments regarding the ongoing border situation.