Greek defense chief urges end to ‘Türkiye-centric’ policy

ATHENS

Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias has called for a shift away from what he described as “Türkiye-centric” policies, while simultaneously making remarks that focused heavily on tensions with Ankara.

Speaking in Athens on April 28 at an international conference on maritime security in Athens, Dendias argued that Türkiye has no rights over the continental shelf in the Aegean Sea, despite Ankara’s opposing claims.

“Türkiye is not, and must not become, our primary concern,” he said, adding that Greece should prioritize strengthening its defense capabilities to deter any potential threats from neighboring countries.

However, his remarks largely centered on Türkiye, warning that any Turkish “incursion” would be met with a strong response, citing Greece’s expanding missile capabilities.

Türkiye, which has the longest continental coastline in the Eastern Mediterranean, rejects the maritime boundary claims of Greece and the Greek Cypriot administration, saying they infringe on its sovereign rights as well as those of Turkish Cyprus.

Dendias, who has taken a hardline stance on Türkiye, also stated in a speech last year that Ankara represents the main threat to Greece and that Athens should respond with concrete military measures.