Kyiv accuses Moscow to use migration to “destabilise Europe”

Na message on social media, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, gave as an example the “exploitation” of the crisis in Ceuta after the entry of thousands of migrants irregularly from Morocco at the end of July. 

“[The President of Russia, Vladimir] Putin seeks to foster migration to Europe, and the Black Sea blockade is part of his plan,” said Sibiga, stressing that “the terror of Russia is not limited to Ukraine, but also threatens countries in Africa, the Middle East and Asia.”.

“ Vulnerable families in countries dependent on food imports will suffer the consequences of Moscow’s actions more directly: by increasing food prices and scarcity, factors that cause malnutrition and hunger,” he explained in the message.

The head of Ukrainian diplomacy maintained that Moscow seeks to “destabilize Europe” with this, before stressing that “Putin bets on the idea that hunger and food shortages can cause an influx of migrants”.

“ This is precisely what you are looking for, especially with a view to the elections to be held next year in the Member States of the European Union (EU)”, you warned.

In 2027 legislative elections are scheduled in Slovakia, Spain, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Italy and Poland, as well as the presidential elections in France. These include the election of presidents by the parliaments of Germany, Slovenia and Latvia.

“Putin knows that migration is one of the most sensitive issues and that it divides European electoral campaigns, especially after proving the effectiveness with which networks linked to Russia have exploited the recent Ceuta crisis,” said Sybiha, who reiterated that Moscow “will use all the means available to increase migration to Europe.”.

It also pointed out to Belarus as part of this alleged Moscow strategy and stressed that Lithuania recently discovered several clandestine tunnels dug from Belarus, intended to smuggle migrants illegally across the border.

“Moscow believes that his strategy will generate tensions, sow division, strengthen anti-European radical movements and ultimately weaken Europe’s support for Ukraine,” he said.

“ Support Ukraine's agricultural exports and unlock freedom of navigation at sea Black has a strategic and existential value for both the EU [European Union] and the international community as a whole,” he added.

Therefore, Sybiha stressed the need for “an urgent action” to ensure uninterrupted commercial maritime transport from Ukrainian ports, develop all possible alternative routes and mechanisms for freight transport across the EU and provide maximum support to Ukrainian farmers.

“ Another key priority is to jointly develop and implement a European strategy to combat Russia's misinformation, interference and manipulation campaigns. Ukraine is willing to contribute to its valuable experience,” concluded the Ukrainian Foreign Minister.