Spain deploys naval support to Cyprus following drone attack

The Spanish Ministry of Defense has announced the deployment of the frigate Cristóbal Colón to the Eastern Mediterranean to support Cyprus. This decision follows a recent drone attack on the British military base at Akrotiri. The vessel is tasked with providing anti-aircraft defense and assisting in potential non-combatant evacuation operations. The Cristóbal Colón will operate alongside the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle and Hellenic Navy vessels. According to reports, the ship is expected to arrive near Crete around March 10. Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto confirmed that an EU-led security coordination effort is underway, involving Italy, France, the Netherlands, and Spain. This collective action is based on the mutual support provisions within the EU Treaty. The deployment aims to stabilize the region amid rising tensions in the Middle East.