Germany Confirms Migrant Expulsions to Italy Under New EU Asylum Pact

The German Interior Ministry has confirmed that migrants will be expelled to Italy in accordance with bilateral agreements and the European Union's common asylum system. A spokesperson for the ministry expressed surprise at the agitation and divergences with Rome, stating that Germany and Italy have collaborated well on migration. The spokesperson noted that bilateral agreements reached in autumn 2025 establish that Dublin rules will be reapplied starting June 2026, meaning expulsions will be carried out toward Italy, primarily for cases occurring after the new EU Pact took effect. One specific case involves a Somali citizen who entered Europe via Italy; Germany has indicated her removal will occur on August 19.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani suggested a potential mediation, noting that German flagged NGO ships have landed migrants in Italy. This suggests a possible compensation where the movement of asylum seekers could be balanced between the two nations. Meanwhile, tensions are rising regarding the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. The Spanish government has reinforced border controls and deployed naval units to prevent a potential mass migration surge on August 15. The Italian government has cited intelligence reports suggesting terrorists may be among those attempting to enter Europe through Ceuta, leading Minister Tajani to confirm that the Schengen treaty remains partially suspended regarding Spain until after the August 15 holiday.

In Northern Europe, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen told the Folketing that Denmark is prepared to strengthen border controls or close them completely if a new wave of migration moves through Europe. She described images from Ceuta as disturbing and stated that the government would not hesitate to adopt necessary measures to protect national borders.