Greece ramps military support for Cyprus while PM signals possible economic measures,rules out early polls.

In an exclusive interview with iefimerida.gr, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis sounded a warning about the escalating conflict involving Iran, highlighting potential repercussions for Greece and Europe. Amid heightened tensions, Greece dispatched frigates and fighter jets to Cyprus, sending a clear message of solidarity and security, while Mitsotakis branded Iran a “regional destabilizing power.”

Military support for Cyprus: a bold move

The Prime Minister stressed that the deployment of two Greek frigates and two pairs of F-16s to Cyprus was a strategic priority. “Cyprus is not alone. Even if we had to act alone, we would support them,” Mitsotakis emphasized, reinforcing the notion of Greece as a capable and decisive regional actor.

This move coincided with broader European mobilization, including French, Italian, and Spanish contributions, marking a rare moment of operational European cohesion in defense. Mitsotakis framed this as both a geopolitical and domestic signal: the Greek Armed Forces are ready, and citizens’ investments in national defense are paying off.

Economic caution amid uncertainty

While ruling out snap elections, Mitsotakis did not dismiss the need for new economic measures if the crisis prolongs. The PM highlighted Greece’s financial resilience, underpinned by sound public finances, but warned that disruptions to oil and gas flows through the Strait of Hormuz could trigger chain reactions affecting inflation and energy prices globally.

Already, the government has implemented a cap on fuel and key consumer goods to curb price gouging, framing it as a first step rather than a comprehensive solution. Mitsotakis underlined that further interventions would depend on developments: “We never reveal all our measures from day one.”

No snap elections, no cabinet reshuffle

Despite growing speculation and favorable polling for New Democracy, Mitsotakis firmly rejected early elections, describing political stability as a strategic national advantage. Similarly, he dismissed the idea of a cabinet reshuffle, asserting the current government is fully operational amid a volatile international environment.

Geopolitical ambitions: the Vertical Corridor and energy leverage

The Prime Minister highlighted the Vertical Corridor project, which strengthens Greece’s geopolitical and energy role in Southeastern Europe, providing alternative natural gas supply routes to Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, and Ukraine. Coupled with the Chevron agreement for offshore exploration in the Ionian Sea, Mitsotakis painted a picture of Greece transitioning from a peripheral to a central energy player in Europe.

Political strategy: eyes on 2027

Looking toward the next elections, Mitsotakis reaffirmed New Democracy’s goal of achieving an outright majority, contrasting it with the PASOK strategy of aiming merely to become the largest party. On emerging political initiatives, he remained skeptical, framing new parties as potentially divisive without offering a real alternative.

Subtle warning to opposition and critics

On internal challenges like the recent surveillance allegations, Mitsotakis stressed adherence to parliamentary procedures while subtly criticizing opposition parties for opportunistic populism. He framed his administration as pragmatic, focused on results rather than rhetoric: “We do what we promise; we don’t chase headlines.”

Domestic and international optics

Mitsotakis used the Cyprus operation to showcase both operational readiness and diplomatic leverage, stressing that Greek actions influence European partners and regional security. He also reaffirmed his strategic priority of safeguarding Greek citizens abroad and ensuring the uninterrupted flow of maritime commerce.

In this high-stakes moment, Mitsotakis projects a dual image: a firm leader safeguarding national interests while preparing the economy for possible turbulence. With eyes set firmly on 2027, the PM is playing a long game, blending national security, energy diplomacy, and domestic political strategy — all under the shadow of a volatile Middle East.

Source: pagenews.gr