Macedonia has declared a state of emergency at its northern and southern borders over an unprecedented influx of refugees heading across its territory in order to reach the European Union and plans to deploy the Army. Reuters reports that the Macedonian Interior Ministry announced the move today.
Deutsche Presse-Agentur reports that Macedonia has also closed part of its border with Greece to make it impossible for refugees to enter the country. "We anticipate that involving the Army will produce the expected results – the security of our population will be increased in the two (border) regions and it will be possible to more carefully approach people who are interested in applying for asylum," the Interior Ministry said.
Referring to local media reports, Deutsche Presse-Agentur says the Macedonian Police have blocked a key transportation artery between Greece and Macedonia, making it impossible for thousands of refugees to cross into the country. The aim of the measure is evidently to reduce the onrush of refugees.
Their destination has been the southern Macedonia town of Gevgelija, which lies on the main road originating in the Greek city of Thessaloniki. From Gevgelija they have been taking the train to the northern border with Serbia.
