Italy says it will keep Schengen controls on arrivals from Spain until at least 15 August

Italy said it will not accept ultimatums or outside pressure on national security and border control, and will not review its decision to suspend the application of the Schengen Agreement for third-country nationals arriving from Spain. Palazzo Chigi said the measure will remain in place until at least 15 August and, in any case, until security and terrorism risks for Italy have been completely ruled out.

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The statement said a new wave of migration is expected in Ceuta on that date, citing an announcement by the Spanish authorities. It said Italy cannot change the decision until it is certain there are no security or terrorism risks, no new wave, and no irregular migrants heading toward EU territory.

Palazzo Chigi said the decision does not affect Spain as a partner country and is consistent with similar measures taken by the Italian government in the past, including regarding Slovenia, and by other European governments toward Italy and Spain. It added that Italy remains ready for constructive talks with the government in Madrid if those conditions no longer apply.

Italian border authorities, it said, will work to ensure maximum ease of movement for Spanish and EU citizens, who are unaffected by the reinstatement of air and sea border controls.

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