NEW DELHI: Tensions between China and the European Union escalated this week after a Chinese military vessel allegedly targeted a German surveillance aircraft with a military-grade laser during a security patrol over the Red Sea.
According to EU officials, the aircraft was part of a joint EU maritime mission to monitor international shipping lanes threatened by piracy and regional instability. The incident reportedly occurred in international airspace near the Horn of Africa.
“This was a highly provocative and dangerous act,” said an EU spokesperson. “Targeting an aircraft with a military laser endangers the crew and violates international norms.”
In response, Germany’s Foreign Office summoned the Chinese ambassador in Berlin to demand a formal explanation. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock condemned the move, calling it “unacceptable and irresponsible.”
The German Defense Ministry confirmed that the laser did not cause lasting damage, but termed the action “hostile in intent.”
China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected the allegations, stating that its naval units were “operating lawfully” and accused the EU of “hyping the situation.” Beijing insisted that its personnel followed standard safety procedures.
This incident comes amid broader China–EU geopolitical strains, including trade disputes, growing criticism of China’s support for Russia, and tensions over maritime navigation in the South China Sea.
European lawmakers have urged a joint NATO–EU review of Chinese naval activity near strategic choke points like the Red Sea and Suez Canal. Some analysts fear the episode could trigger a cooling of diplomatic and economic relations between Brussels and Beijing.
“Europe now views China not only as an economic competitor but increasingly as a strategic disruptor,” said a Brussels-based policy expert.
