Aspides Commander Renews EU Commitment to Protecting International Navigation and Contributing to Regional Stability

Admiral Vasileios Griparis, Commander of the European Union Naval Force "Aspedas", which is tasked with protecting international navigation in the Red Sea from Houthi attacks, renewed the EU's commitment to ensuring the security of maritime trade routes and contributing to regional stability.

This came during his participation in the annual conference of European Union ambassadors in Brussels during the period from 3 to 7 February, according to what the mission stated in a statement on its website.

The mission stated that Admiral Griparis spoke with senior EU officials to highlight the vital role that Operation ASPIDES plays in maritime security and its alignment with the EU's broader foreign and security policy objectives.

On February 7, Rear Admiral Vasileios Gryparis (EL N), Commander of EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, attended the annual EU Ambassadors Conference in Brussels, where Ambassadors from EU delegations worldwide gathered to discuss key aspects of EU foreign affairs and security policy.
The event… pic.twitter.com/mgCYFjzdGq

- EUNAVFOR ASPIDES (@EUNAVFORASPIDES) February 7, 2025

She added that Griparis stressed during his meetings the strategic importance of Operation ASPIDES in ensuring the security of global maritime trade routes. He highlighted the role of the operation in supporting the efforts of the European Union and strengthening the position of the European Union as a major provider of global security.

He also renewed Aspedas' commitment to protecting vital sea lanes, strengthening international partnerships, and contributing to global stability through EU-led security efforts.

The statement indicated that the participation in the annual conference of European Union ambassadors confirmed the European Union's commitment to adopting a comprehensive approach to security, and integrating military operations with diplomatic and political initiatives.

Since February 19, 2024, the Aspides mission has been leading defensive maritime operations to secure international shipping traffic from attacks by the Iranian-backed Houthis in the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden and surrounding waters.