Mitsotakis: Greece Vetoes Turkey’s SAFE Membership Until Casus Belli Is Lifted

The trigger came from the message sent yesterday by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at the Thessaloniki International Fair (DETH), where he made it clear that Greece will oppose Turkey’s participation in the European defense program SAFE unless the casus belli is lifted.

Mitsotakis stated:

“As long as the casus belli remains in effect, Greece will block Turkey from participating in this program. This is our right,” according to the Turkish newspaper Hurriyet.

The Greek Prime Minister also emphasized: “Greece’s plan does not require Turkey’s approval. Our country has demonstrated its sovereignty in a different manner than in the past,” adding that “The maritime parks are a clear sign of Greece’s protection of its sovereign rights”.

Regarding bilateral relations, Mitsotakis stressed: “We want calm waters in our relations with Turkey. But this must be achieved on the basis of strength and confidence, without compromising national sovereignty”.

Particular attention was given to the Greece–Cyprus electricity interconnection, which, according to Hurriyet, “passes through Turkey’s continental shelf”. The French cable manufacturer Nexans had previously warned: “Make the advance payment or we will withdraw from the tender”. Meanwhile, the European Public Prosecutor’s Office has launched an investigation into potential irregularities in the pre-tender procedures, adding further pressure to the project.

Athens’ message is clear: “Turkey cannot participate in European defense programs unless the casus belli is lifted first”, while Greece defends its national sovereignty and strategic interests, including critical infrastructure and investment projects.