EU's Kallas urges member states to boost Aspides mission in Red Sea

European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has urged member states to step up support for the Aspides mission safeguarding navigation in the Red Sea, stressing the need for additional ships to ensure the operation's effectiveness. Speaking on arrival at an EU defense ministers' meeting in Brussels, Kallas noted that she had not received any new commitments from member states for further contributions.

Kallas warned that worsening security and Houthi attacks in the Red Sea threaten European interests and the global economy. She emphasized that reinforcing the mission with more ships and aerial capabilities has become essential amid ongoing tensions and a growing number of vessels requesting protection.

Kallas added that the EU could participate as an observer in the Saudi-led maritime coalition, highlighting the need for warships to escort commercial vessels in the Red Sea. The region has seen mounting disruption from Houthi attacks, prompting many shipping companies to alter their routes to avoid risks.

The EU launched Operation Aspides in February 2024 as a defensive mission authorized to use force to protect commercial shipping. Greece holds the strategic command, with Greece and Italy alternating in operational leadership.