The German Foreign Ministry summoned the Chinese Ambassador to Berlin on Tuesday.
The move follows an incident involving a German aircraft participating in the EU’s Aspides operation, which was targeted by a laser deployment from the Chinese military. The ministry stated that the endangering of German personnel and the disruption of the operation were deemed “completely unacceptable.
Aspides is a defensive EU-led mission established in response to attacks by Houthi rebels on shipping in the Red Sea. The operation aims to protect commercial vessels and ensure freedom of navigation in the region. The summoning of the Chinese Ambassador reflects the seriousness with which Germany views the incident and seeks clarification and assurances regarding future conduct.
