Dendias clarifies: Casus belli is not a discussion point – Greece keeps communication channels open

Amid rising tensions in the Aegean, Greece’s Minister of National Defense, Nikos Dendias, spoke clearly regarding dialogue with Turkey ahead of the upcoming Mitsotakis–Erdogan meeting. Greece insists on open channels of communication but will not accept terms like casus belli as a discussion basis.

“We cannot tolerate casus belli as a discussion point. We cannot negotiate on this,” the minister stressed, adding that the country reserves the right to extend its territorial waters, a core element of national sovereignty, but the timing of such a decision will be weighed against national interest.

Dendias also clarified that Greece neither threatens nor demands, but cannot remain silent in the face of violations of International Law. He emphasized that Athens maintains a responsible and serious stance to keep communication channels open for when Turkey decides to negotiate under the rules of international law.

Regarding personal attacks and criticisms from colleagues, the minister noted that these claims do not hold up under scrutiny, emphasizing that he always expresses the national position as defined by the Prime Minister and his predecessors. “Our asset is calm in our responses,” he said, highlighting that Greece follows a unified national line, regardless of party differences.

On the international front, Dendias assessed that the US fully understands Greece’s limits and interests and that the last thing they want is instability in the Aegean and Mediterranean. Regarding Trump’s new doctrine, he noted that it is not about imposing rules, but rather presenting the US agenda. Greece does not define itself by allies or international pressure.

Finally, on the strengthened defense cooperation with Israel, Dendias clarified that there is understanding, not directed against anyone, and Greece does not want to exclude Turkey from such partnerships if Ankara chooses to engage within a framework respecting International Law.

The upcoming Mitsotakis–Erdogan meeting is seen as necessary for dialogue in the face of provocations, while Greece remains on alert, ready to defend its sovereign rights with composure, strategy, and national unity.

Source: pagenews.gr