Italy Shrugs Off Spanish Ultimatum, Says It Has no Plans to Reopen Border With Invaded Country – Madrid to Retaliate

Following a large migrant influx into Ceuta, Spain issued an ultimatum to Italy demanding the removal of border checks imposed on Spanish travelers. Italy rejected the ultimatum, stating it does not accept impositions regarding national security and border control, and intends to maintain its decision to suspend the Schengen Agreement for third-country nationals coming from Spain until at least August 15th. In response, Spain announced it would implement passport and nationality checks on Italian passengers starting midnight local time.

• A large migrant influx into Spain’s enclave of Ceuta led to Italy imposing border checks on Spanish travelers.
• Spain issued an ultimatum demanding Italy lift these checks, calling them ‘unjust’ and ‘discriminatory’.
• Italy rejected the ultimatum, asserting its right to national security and border control.
• Spain announced retaliatory measures, including passport and nationality checks on Italian passengers.
• Italy plans to maintain its border restrictions until at least August 15th, citing potential further migrant crossings.