Germany Summons Chinese Ambassador Over Laser Incident
Germany has summoned the Chinese ambassador after a Chinese warship laser-targeted a German aircraft during a European Union operation in the Red Sea, escalating tensions between the two nations. The incident occurred while the German aircraft was conducting a reconnaissance mission as part of the EU’s ASPIDES operation, which aims to protect sea routes in the region. The German Foreign Ministry condemned the act as “completely unacceptable,” stating it endangered both personnel and the operation. Following the laser attack, the aircraft safely landed in Djibouti after aborting its mission. The aircraft had been operating in the region since October. While similar incidents involving Chinese warships targeting US planes have been reported previously, such occurrences with European NATO members are rare. This incident is expected to strain diplomatic relations between Beijing and Berlin.
Germany-China Laser Incident
| Aspect | Key Information |
| Incident | A Chinese warship laser-targeted a German aircraft in the Red Sea. |
| German Aircraft Role | Part of the EU’s ASPIDES mission; conducting reconnaissance to protect sea routes. |
| German Response | Germany’s Foreign Ministry condemned the act as “completely unacceptable“; summoned the Chinese ambassador. |
| Aircraft Landing | Safely landed in Djibouti after aborting its mission. |
| Operational Period | German aircraft had been operating in the region since October. |
| Precedent | Similar incidents involving Chinese warships and US planes have occurred; rare with European NATO members. |
| Impact | Expected to strain diplomatic relations between Beijing and Berlin. |
FAQ:
Q: Why did Germany summon the Chinese ambassador?
A: Germany summoned the Chinese ambassador after a Chinese warship laser-targeted a German aircraft in the Red Sea, deeming the act “completely unacceptable.”
Q: What was the German aircraft doing in the Red Sea?
A: The German aircraft was part of the EU’s ASPIDES mission, conducting reconnaissance to protect sea routes in the Red Sea.
CTA: Read More on EU Operations https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/eu-military-operation-aspides_en
