BRUSSELS — European Union foreign ministers gathered in Brussels on Thursday for an emergency session called by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, one day after Russia and China vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping. The veto, which drew sharp condemnation from Western capitals, has left global oil markets rattled and European governments scrambling for a coordinated diplomatic response.

The meeting, convened under Article 30 of the EU Treaty allowing urgent foreign affairs consultations, brought together representatives from all 27 member states. Officials said the primary agenda items were the legal framework for potential European naval escorts through the strait, the activation of emergency oil reserve protocols, and diplomatic outreach to Gulf Cooperation Council states most directly affected by the closure.

Kallas told reporters ahead of the session that the Russian and Chinese vetoes represented 'a deliberate choice to hold the global economy hostage,' adding that Europe would not stand by while a critical artery for energy supplies remained blocked. Germany, France, and the Netherlands — whose Rotterdam port serves as Europe's primary oil distribution hub — were expected to push for a stronger collective posture, including possible naval coordination with the United States Fifth Fleet.

Crude oil prices remained elevated, with Brent crude trading above $104 per barrel in early Thursday sessions, sustaining pressure first felt when the strait restrictions began. Energy analysts at the International Energy Agency warned that sustained disruption beyond three weeks could force European nations to draw down strategic petroleum reserves at rates not seen since the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Diplomats cautioned that any naval escort mission would require careful legal architecture to avoid direct confrontation with Iranian forces, which have asserted control over the waterway. Gulf states including Saudi Arabia and the UAE were reported to be in intensive back-channel talks with Washington and London, seeking guarantees before committing to any joint maritime operation. A formal EU statement was expected by Thursday evening.