Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis sidestepped making direct remarks on reports that the United States might renew sales of F-35 fighter jets to Türkiye. Instead, he urged NATO allies to remain attentive to regional security issues. As he prepared for the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara, Mitsotakis emphasized Greece’s commitment to fostering better relations with Türkiye through constructive dialogue and cooperative neighborly relations.
While advocating for improved bilateral ties, Mitsotakis underscored the necessity for NATO to consider the security concerns of all its member states. His comments alluded to the long-standing disputes that continue to challenge the region’s stability. The Greek leader’s remarks followed an indication from US President Donald Trump that Washington was contemplating lifting restrictions on defense dealings with Türkiye, which could include the sale of F-35 fighter jets and a relaxation of CAATSA sanctions.
The potential shift in US policy comes amid an ongoing effort to mend diplomatic relations between Greece and Türkiye, though significant disagreements persist. The two nations have long been at odds over maritime boundaries and territorial disputes in the Aegean Sea and Eastern Mediterranean, issues that remain pivotal sources of friction between these NATO members.
These territorial and maritime disagreements have historically strained Greece-Türkiye relations, casting a shadow over broader regional security discussions within NATO. Mitsotakis’s call for sensitivity to security concerns reflects a broader desire for stability in a region marked by complex geopolitical dynamics.
As NATO members convene in Ankara, the backdrop of these enduring regional tensions underscores the importance of dialogue and cooperation in addressing both bilateral and collective security challenges. Mitsotakis’s emphasis on inclusive security considerations highlights the ongoing need for careful navigation of these sensitive issues within the alliance.