EU's Kallas says Red Sea mission needs more than 10 warships

The European Union's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, stated on Monday that the EU's naval mission in the Red Sea, Aspides, requires an increase to more than 10 warships to effectively protect shipping from Houthi attacks. Launched in 2024, the mission currently operates with six warships, but Kallas emphasized that "the situation, I think, is even more grave right now" due to recent Houthi advances along the Red Sea coast. She noted that these attacks are impacting European interests and the global economy, affecting supply chains and potentially hindering economic support. Kallas sent a letter to EU member states on September 19, urging increased contributions, with discussions planned for upcoming defense and foreign ministers' meetings. Italy, a key participant, is preparing its own naval mission due to the urgency.