EU sees signs of Russian hybrid warfare during migrant surge to Ceuta

European Union officials have identified significant pro-Russian activity on social media linked to the recent surge of migrants from Morocco into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. The findings were presented at an EU meeting, indicating a coordinated effort to influence perceptions of the situation.

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We were informed at the meeting that something our European authorities had also observed was a lot of activity on social media from pro-Russian sides and accounts.

Morten Bødskov, Denmark's Minister for Immigration and Integration, stated that European authorities detected substantial activity from pro-Russian accounts and platforms. These sources disseminated messages suggesting that Moroccan migrants had "breached" Europe's borders. Bødskov noted this was particularly impactful as it influenced migrants' belief in their ability to enter the EU.

According to Bødskov, at least 6,000 posts were found on pro-Russian Telegram accounts and websites. The stated objective of these posts was to create division within Europe, using narratives that claimed the EU's border cooperation had collapsed and that chaos was unfolding. This meeting was prompted by a joint letter from 22 heads of government, including Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, calling for action following the mass migration event.

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And it is remarkable, because when you look at interviews with those who were in Ceuta, it has affected their belief that they can get in.

Spanish authorities reported that approximately 72,000 individuals entered Ceuta during the influx. However, the majority, around 70,000, have since been returned to Morocco. Ceuta, along with Melilla, represents the EU's only land borders with Africa.

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EU's border cooperation had broken down, and that chaos was unfolding in Europe.