Baltic States Support Hormuz Mission But Prioritize Russia Deterrence

Eastern European Union member states, particularly Lithuania and Latvia, have expressed willingness to contribute to a potential European naval mission securing the Strait of Hormuz. However, they strongly emphasize that such deployments must not compromise NATO’s deterrence capabilities on its eastern flank against Russia. Lithuanian Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas advocated for a comprehensive security approach but warned that Russia remains the primary threat. EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas proposed expanding the existing Operation Aspides, currently protecting Red Sea shipping, to cover the Hormuz Strait without altering its legal mandate. While France and the UK lead a broader coalition for Middle East navigation security, European officials acknowledge significant strain on naval resources. Diplomats noted that ships are needed simultaneously in the Baltic and Arabian seas, raising concerns about burden-sharing among EU nations. The situation highlights diverging security priorities within the bloc, with southern states focused on Iranian threats and eastern states prioritizing Russian aggression. Andrius Kubilius, EU Defence Commissioner, stressed that eastern flank nations defend the entire EU and deserve greater solidarity and investment in their defense capabilities.