The European Union strongly condemns Wednesday’s attack on the Barbados-flagged and Liberian-owned bulk carrier ‘True Confidence’ while transiting the Gulf of Aden, resulting in reported tragic losses of life and multiple injuries among crew members.

This comes after the recent Houthi attack against the Rubymar vessel, with potentially devastating environmental impact in the Red Sea. 

The EU reiterates that these Houthi attacks are violations of international law, that threaten maritime security, freedom of navigation and global trade, and put the lives of sailors at risk. These attacks must cease immediately, as reiterated in the UNSC Resolution 2722, adopted on 10 January.

The EU and its member states in accordance with international law, are determined to defend their vessels against attacks that undermine freedom of navigation, and navigational rights. Through the EU naval operation ASPIDES, the EU will continue to protect maritime security as a global common good, and safeguard the commercial and security interests of the EU and the wider international community.