Kaja Kallas Urges EU to Bolster Red Sea Mission

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas has called on member states to strengthen Operation Aspides to protect the Bab el-Mandeb Strait from Houthi attacks. In a letter sent to the 27 EU member states on September 19, Kallas requested additional naval and air assets, stating that the security situation is "even more grave" than when the mission launched in 2024.

While the operation was initially intended to utilize at least 10 ships, diplomats report that only six warships are currently operating in the region, with the core fleet provided primarily by Italy and Greece. Kallas warned that Houthi advances along the Red Sea coast, including the seizure of the port of Mocha and Perim Island, threaten European supply chains and global shipping.

Italy has expressed frustration over the lack of military contributions from other EU nations. Following an incident where an Italian frigate had to escort a merchant vessel, Italy announced on September 16 that it is preparing an independent naval mission because it cannot wait for a collective EU response. Italian officials suggested that member states unable to provide ships should instead provide financial support.

EU defense ministers are scheduled to discuss the reinforcement of the mission on September 28 in Brussels. Despite these urgent calls, reports indicate that member states have shown limited interest in expanding the fleet or altering the mission's objectives.