BRUSSELS (BELGIUM) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The European Union is doubling its support for the Djibouti Armed Forces from 10 million to 20 million euros through the European Peace Facility, strengthening the assistance measure approved in July 2025. The decision focuses primarily on the Djibouti Navy and the country’s ability to maintain a more effective presence in the waters off Bab el-Mandeb, the strategic chokepoint between the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean.
According to the EU Council, the increase in resources reflects the strengthening of the partnership with Djibouti in the field of security and defence and contributes to the European response “to the deteriorating security situation in the Red Sea and surrounding areas,” helping safeguard freedom of navigation. Three operational priorities remain in place: developing and maintaining assets to ensure their full operational capability over time, enhancing Maritime Domain Awareness, and increasing the presence at sea.
The funding therefore strengthens a local capability that complements European naval operations in the region, where Eunavfor Aspides operates to protect merchant shipping. Behind the doubling of the allocation lies a broader strategy: strengthening surveillance and the resilience of coastal partners along one of the world’s main trade routes.
The initial 10 million euros had also been allocated to the restoration of maritime assets, a coastal surveillance station with ISR capabilities, and rapid-response vessels.
– Photo: Ipa Agency –
(ITALPRESS)
