Brussels: EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said Tuesday that the bloc agreed to reinforce the European Defence Agency (EDA). “Ministers today agreed to strengthen the EDA with the dedicated structures for innovation and experimentation. Work will continue to strengthen the agency even further, also on joint procurement,” Kallas said at a news conference after a defense ministers meeting in Brussels.

According to Anadolu Agency, Kallas emphasized that defense innovation must become a political priority. She highlighted the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as being caught in a “gray zone between war and peace.” Kallas underscored the EU’s support for diplomatic initiatives to prevent further escalation in the region, noting that the closure of this crucial shipping lane would be untenable.

Kallas stressed the “vital role” that regional EU naval operations can play in restoring energy and trade flows. She suggested that Operation Aspides, the EU’s initiative for protecting shipping in the Red Sea, could be expanded to the Strait of Hormuz with a modification of its operational plan. This operation is part of the EU’s response to Houthi attacks in the Red Sea.

The EU foreign policy chief also addressed concerns about Russia’s posture, stating, “Russia is gearing up for long-term confrontation with the West.” She warned that the credibility of European defenses is crucial in deterring Russian aggression. “Deterrence works if it is credible; showing weakness only invites aggression,” Kallas remarked.

Kallas concluded by urging European countries to increase funding for defense and expedite arms production. She highlighted the need for faster, cheaper delivery to address current capability gaps in the defense industry across Europe.