8 EU States Mull Anti-piracy Force

[unhappycamper]

8 EU States Mull Anti-piracy Force
October 02, 2008
Associated Press

DEAUVILLE, France - Eight European Union countries are offering to create a maritime security force aimed to fight piracy off Somalia, the French defense minister said - a move that could give the U.S. Navy crucial support in the hazardous waters.

The decision comes after last week's hijacking in the Indian Ocean of the Ukrainian ship MV Faina, which was carrying 33 Soviet-made T-72 tanks, rifles, and heavy weapons - and 20 hostages, one of whom has died, apparently of illness.

The hostages remain on board and the Faina is surrounded by U.S. warships. NATO also has military ships in the Indian Ocean.

Meanwhile, Somalia has said foreign powers may use force against the pirates, and The Associated Press also is reporting that marines and commandoes are among troops headed to the scene aboard a Russian warship.

French Defense Minister Herve Morin, speaking to reporters at a meeting of EU defense ministers in Deauville, said the informal session was not the proper setting for an official launch of the operation. But he said he hoped the needed approval would come when defense ministers meet in Brussels on Nov. 10.


Rest of article at: http://www.military.com/news/article/8-eu-states-mull-antipiracy-force.html

[dipsydoodle]

1. Another link to the subject

The European Union has agreed to establish an anti-piracy security operation off the coast of Somalia.

French Defence Minister Herve Morin said at least eight countries have agreed to take part.

The deal follows the seizure of a ship laden with 33 tanks - a $20m (£11m) ransom is wanted for its release.

Meanwhile, police in Kenya have arrested a maritime official who said that the battle tanks were destined for southern Sudan, rather than Kenya.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/africa/7647803.stm