Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has accused Russia of orchestrating illegal migration into Europe to destabilize the bloc. During a North-South security summit, Ms Meloni called for stronger defense of the region’s eastern and southern flanks against external threats.
The European Union is concerned about Russia’s alleged role in allowing illegal migrants from the Middle East and elsewhere to enter EU countries via Russia without proper checks. Russia has denied deliberately pushing migrants into the EU to undermine security. However, some EU members have reported instances of proxies being used by Russia to encourage migration across the Mediterranean.
EU leaders discussed the need for tailored solutions to address border security concerns, as different borders require unique measures. Italy and Greece face threats at sea, while Finland has an 830-mile land border with Russia that needs to be patrolled.
Ms Meloni emphasized the importance of understanding the full extent of the threat and developing effective tools to counter it. She noted that a fence is not suitable for all borders, citing Finland’s experience as an example.
Source: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2024/12/22/giorgia-meloni-warns-russia-threat-europe-migrants