US wants help to guard Strait of Hormuz, but EU isn't keen

Mar 16, 2026, 05:20 PM en source ↗

EU-US Relations Gulf Security & Strait of Hormuz Strait of Hormuz & Energy Security Russia-Ukraine War Strait of Hormuz Crisis

Summary

The Trump administration is pressing European allies to take on a greater role in securing the Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions in the Gulf, but EU member states are reluctant to commit. Meanwhile, soaring energy prices triggered by regional instability are providing a windfall for Russia, undermining Ukraine and its European backers. The divergence highlights deepening transatlantic rifts over burden-sharing and energy security.

Preview

As Trump dials up pressure on Europe to guard the Strait of Hormuz, Russia is taking advantage of the rise in energy prices to the detriment of Ukraine and its allies in Europe.

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