Athens is facing increasing pressure from NATO allies to consider selling part of its 24 Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets to Ukraine, strengthening Kyiv’s defense against Russia. The request comes primarily from the United States and France, while Eastern NATO countries, such as Czechia and even Estonia, have expressed willingness to act as intermediaries in such a deal.
However, the Greek government remains cautious, recognizing the geopolitical risks of tension with Moscow. Transferring advanced fighters that would be used directly against Russian forces could strain already fragile Greece-Russia relations and potentially weaken the country’s own defense capabilities.
In this context, Greece has opted to provide older military equipment, such as 60 self-propelled M-110 howitzers, which will be delivered to Czechia and then forwarded to Ukraine. In return, Greece will receive modern 155mm ammunition and spare parts for older vehicles, ensuring the reinforcement of its own defense capabilities.
At the same time, the U.S. has requested Greece’s participation in the PURL (Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List) initiative, aimed at the rapid and effective supply of defensive equipment to Ukraine, inviting southern NATO countries, including Greece, to strengthen the support chain for Kyiv.
Greece finds itself in a delicate geopolitical balancing act: on one hand, it seeks to remain a reliable NATO and EU ally by contributing to Ukraine’s defense; on the other hand, it aims to protect its national defense and avoid direct confrontation with Russia.
The final decision by Athens will significantly shape the country’s position on the strategic map of Eastern Europe, influencing its relations with both allies and adversaries amid the complex West-Russia balance.