Greek Defense Minister Warns of Enduring Tensions with Turkey Amid Regional Strain

13:48 8/2/2025 - Πηγή: iEfimerida

Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias has warned that longstanding tensions with neighboring Turkey persist despite recent diplomatic calm, citing continued provocations and Ankara’s “unacceptable” threats over territorial disputes.

Speaking at a rally for the governing New Democracy party in northern

Greece, Dendias condemned Turkey’s harassment of a Greek research vessel north of Crete last month and its rejection of Greece’s environmental protection zones in the Aegean Sea.

He also underscored Ankara’s decades-old threat to declare war — casus belli — if Greece expands its territorial waters to 12 nautical miles, as permitted under international law.

“No other country faces such an overt threat for asserting its legal rights,” Mr. Dendias told supporters in Kozani. While reaffirming Greece’s commitment to resolving disputes through diplomacy, he vowed, “We will not compromise on national sovereignty.”

The minister highlighted Greece’s ongoing $15 billion military modernization program, including purchases of French Rafale fighter jets, U.S.-made F-35 aircraft and new frigates.

He said air and maritime defenses would soon be bolstered by advanced missile systems, though he did not specify timelines.

“We are reshaping our defense strategy to counter evolving threats,” Mr. Dendias said, alluding to regional instability.

His remarks come amid a fragile détente between the NATO allies, who have clashed for decades over maritime boundaries, energy resources and migration.

While both sides have recently tempered confrontational rhetoric, Greece has accused Turkey of escalating overflights near its eastern islands.

Mr. Dendias also praised the Greek military’s role in disaster response, citing rescue operations during deadly floods in central Thessaly last year and recent wildfires on Santorini.

“Our armed forces stand ready to protect lives in every crisis,” he said.

Addressing local concerns, the minister pledged support for Western Macedonia’s transition from coal-dependent industries to green energy and technology.

The region, once a lignite mining hub, faces economic upheaval under Greece’s post-2025 decarbonization plan.

“This government will not abandon the people of Western Macedonia,” Mr. Dendias said. “We are committed to ensuring a just transition.”

Greece and Turkey have faced recurring brinkmanship over energy exploration and sovereignty claims in the eastern Mediterranean.

Despite resumed high-level talks in 2023, progress remains stalled, with both nations conducting rival military exercises in contested areas.

Analysts warn that accidental clashes could escalate amid competing NATO priorities in the region.

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Greek Defense Minister Warns, Enduring Tensions,Turkey Amid Regional Strain