Italy sticks to Spain border checks as Ceuta crisis tests EU ties

Italy will keep its temporary border controls with Spain through Aug 15 despite Madrid’s threat of proportional measures linked to the Ceuta migrant surge, which saw around 72,000 arrivals and at least 100 deaths. Spain also dismantled a smuggling operation bringing about 2,000 migrants. The crisis remains politically charged in Europe, with concerns over unaccompanied minors in Ceuta and potential transfers to the mainland, prompting government aid and cross-border tensions.