EU Doubles Security Support to Djibouti to 20 Million Euros

The European Union has doubled its financial support for Djibouti’s armed forces to 20 million euros as it seeks to strengthen maritime security around the Red Sea and protect freedom of navigation.

The EU Council approved the increase under an assistance measure established in 2025 through the European Peace Facility, raising the financial reference amount from 10 million euros to 20 million euros.

The additional funding will support Djibouti’s efforts to strengthen maritime security and deepen its security and defence cooperation with the EU, as regional instability continues to pose risks to shipping through the Red Sea.

The assistance will focus on improving the operational readiness of the Djiboutian Navy, including the development and maintenance of naval assets needed to sustain its capabilities over the long term.

The EU package will also support greater maritime domain awareness and an increased naval presence at sea.

The decision forms part of the EU’s wider response to the deteriorating security situation in and around the Red Sea, where disruptions and security threats have raised concerns over the safety of commercial shipping and freedom of navigation.

Djibouti’s location near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait gives it a central role in maritime security in the region. The strait connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and provides a key passage between the Mediterranean and Indian Ocean through the Suez Canal.

The move is also relevant to Ethiopia, which relies heavily on Djibouti for access to international maritime trade. Much of Ethiopia’s import and export traffic passes through Djibouti’s ports, making security along the corridor an important consideration for the country’s trade and logistics.

The latest decision amends the EU Council’s 2025 assistance measure while maintaining its focus on strengthening the Djiboutian Navy’s long-term operational capabilities.

Source: FSX Business News