European Union rejects calls to increase Red Sea military presence

European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announced that EU member states have declined calls to increase their military presence in the Red Sea. During a meeting of EU defense ministers, Kallas characterized the control of the Bab al-Mandab Strait by Sanaa-based forces as a ‘threat to EU countries and the global economy.’

Despite this stance, EU nations have not responded to requests for additional naval deployment. This comes amid reports from the Sanaa Ministry of Transport indicating that approximately 1,000 ships passed through the Bab al-Mandab Strait between September 1 and September 26. The Sanaa government has maintained that passage is safe for all vessels except those linked to Saudi Arabia.

Separately, Kallas reported that no concrete progress was made regarding the transfer of Patriot missiles to Kyiv. While discussions continue, no definitive decisions were reached by member states such as Greece or Spain. However, a new contribution from the Netherlands has enabled the full funding of two training center upgrades in Ukraine.