Red Sea Security: EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas urged member states to boost naval support for Operation Aspides, pushing for more ships and aircraft to protect the Bab al-Mandeb corridor as Houthi threats disrupt energy and trade routes. EU Defence Coordination: EU defence ministers meet in Brussels to align on air defence, training for Ukraine, industrial cooperation, and countering Russia’s “shadow fleet,” with Kallas chairing and Ukraine’s defence minister joining. Maritime Safety Pact: Liberia and India launched a UN-backed Group of Friends to improve safety and security for shipping and seafarers, drawing support from major European maritime states. Ports & Shipping Policy: Cyprus’ shipping competitiveness push heads to Brussels, while EU transport leaders discuss port gateways and maritime transition at Connecting Europe Days. Rail Disruption (Russia): Attacks in Russia’s Bryansk and Kaluga regions suspended rail traffic after bridge damage and freight derailments. Aviation Disruption (Italy): Mount Etna ash forced Catania airport to cancel flights again for a third day. Road & Rail (UK/Spain): Avanti West Coast is set for renationalisation when its contract ends in March 2027; Spain’s new traffic rules start 1 Oct with 12 safety-focused changes. Freight & Energy Economics: Diesel price spikes are making electric trucks cheaper in several EU markets, while the Rhine hits record-low levels in Cologne, cutting shipping capacity. Electric Truck Tech: Scania says a new battery layout can extend electric truck range up to 720 km. Fuel Market Move: SOCAR-owned Italiana Petroli will cap fuel prices across its Italian network starting 28 Sept. EU Rail Industry: Siemens Mobility commissioned by BeNEX to deliver 56 regional trains.