News

In early June, Frontex and the Polish Border Guard led MME BRACE 2025, a major live multipurpose maritime exercise in the Bay of Gdańsk. With support from the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA), the European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA), and Polish SAR, maritime, and fisheries authorities, this operation put real-time response, interoperability, and coast guard integration to the test. 

The drill simulated complex scenarios including illegal fishing, search and rescue missions, and maritime pollution incidents—mirroring the multifaceted challenges that European agencies face daily at sea. It served not only as a test of systems and procedures but also as an opportunity to build trust and operational synergy among participating units. 

The exercise showcased the multi-mission model in action, bringing together EU and national authorities to simulate complex maritime scenarios. It was a powerful display of joint capabilities and operational readiness in a dynamic maritime setting—a proof that cooperation is key to keeping Europe’s waters secure. 

The future of European border security took shape in Athens during the 12th Strategic Risk Analysis Network (SRAN) Meeting. Experts from Member States, the European Commission, eu-LISA, the EU Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA), and the EU Agency for Asylum (EUAA) gathered to prepare the Strategic Risk Analysis 2026, a document that will shape policy and planning across the EU. 

Over two days, the participants explored emerging threats and long-term trends, exchanging insights on how to adapt to a rapidly changing global landscape. Discussions ranged from technological innovation to geopolitical shifts and migration patterns, all with the goal of preparing the EU for what’s ahead. 

Key discussions included: 

In Pärnu, Estonia, Frontex took part in the Victory Day parade for the first time, standing shoulder to shoulder with local partners and sharing the stage on one of Estonia’s most symbolic national celebrations. Our officers showcased patrol vehicles, night vision gear, and surveillance equipment used daily to protect Europe’s eastern frontier. 

Their participation demonstrated more than just presence—it showed solidarity, trust, and shared responsibility for Europe’s common border. Common people had the opportunity to interact with officers and learn more about the technology and methods Frontex uses to support Member States like Estonia. 

Estonia thanked Frontex for its years of dedicated support, reinforcing the shared values and unity that underpin our common mission. Guarding borders means standing together—and this day symbolised that spirit perfectly. 

It was a powerful blow to drug trafficking 140 kg of pure heroin were seized at the Port of Genova in June. The drugs were hidden in a shipment of over 60,000 bricks arriving from Iran. Under Joint Operation Italy 2025, Frontex supported the Polizia di Stato and the Italian Customs Agency (ADM) with high-tech scanning tools and advanced profiling expertise. 

The operation required painstaking effort, with officers working continuously for three days and nights to inspect the massive shipment brick by brick. Their persistence and technical know-how paid off with the discovery of over 500 plastic packages filled with heroin—one of the largest such seizures in recent memory. 

This was a major success in the fight against international crime—a testament to perseverance, teamwork, and cutting-edge equipment. It also reaffirmed the importance of international cooperation in tackling organised crime at Europe’s external borders 

Summer means higher traffic at border crossings—and Operation Minerva is here to help. In cooperation with Policía Nacional, over 100 Frontex officers have been deployed to Algeciras, Ceuta, and Tarifa, strengthening control and ensuring smooth, safe travel for holidaymakers and residents alike. 

The operation also aims to combat document fraud, detect illegal migration, and stop cross-border crime, including drug and weapons smuggling. It’s part of a larger seasonal effort to protect borders during peak travel months, where high volumes bring both logistical and security challenges. 

Minerva reflects the pan-European collaboration that defines Frontex operations—fighting cross-border crime while protecting millions on the move. It’s one more example of how Member States and Frontex work hand-in-hand to keep Europe safe. 

A star was born at the awareness session in Moldova, co-hosted by Frontex and the Moldovan Border Police. A four-legged officer from the canine unit wowed participants with demonstrations in luggage inspection and vehicle screening using X-ray scanners, illustrating the value of detection dogs in modern border management. 

The session highlighted the close operational relationship between Frontex and the Moldovan authorities, particularly in areas of capacity building and knowledge transfer. The presence of both humans and canines exemplified the blend of tradition and innovation in today’s border security. 

Behind the friendly wagging tail is serious security expertise. Events like these highlight how knowledge-sharing and training make us all stronger—and safer. 

Not all favours are innocent. At a crossing between Bulgaria and Türkiye, Bulgarian Customs and Border Police—supported by Frontex—intercepted two backpacks filled with firearms and ammunition. The man carrying them claimed he was “just helping someone out” by transporting the bags across the border. This incident is a vivid reminder of how criminal networks exploit goodwill or ignorance to smuggle dangerous goods. It also highlights the need for constant vigilance and public awareness in preventing cross-border crimes. 

This is a stark warning against unknowingly transporting goods across borders. Even small acts of misplaced kindness can have dangerous consequences. The investigation continues, but the message is clear: stay alert, ask questions, and think twice. 

In Star Dojran, a Frontex officer working alongside North Macedonian authorities uncovered a shipment of counterfeit branded clothing, cleverly concealed to avoid detection. The operation stopped the illicit cargo before it could enter the European market. 

Counterfeit goods not only harm legitimate businesses—they often fund criminal groups and exploit workers. Thanks to keen eyes and close cooperation, the fake items were seized before reaching the market. Operations like these protect consumers, brands, and the integrity of European trade. 

From the shores of the Baltic to the ports of southern Europe, Frontex remained deeply engaged throughout June—protecting borders, anticipating threats, and building resilience through shared intelligence and advanced technologies. 

Each mission, meeting, and operation this month underscored the value of unity, preparedness, and shared responsibility in facing a complex global security landscape. As summer continues, Frontex will remain vigilant—supporting Member States in keeping Europe’s borders safe, secure, and future-ready.