Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Athens on Sunday for high-level talks focused on energy cooperation and continued international support for Ukraine. After meeting Greece’s president, he was welcomed at the prime minister’s office by Kyriakos Mitsotakis, where the two leaders made joint statements following the signing of a new energy agreement.
Mitsotakis stressed that Ukraine “has a stable ally in Athens,” affirming that Greece will continue supporting its resistance against the Russian invasion “within its capabilities.” He linked Greece’s stance to its broader position on international law, noting that the inviolability of borders is non-negotiable.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy at the Presidential Palace in Athens during a meeting with Greek President Constantine Tassoulas, Greece, November 16, 2025. REUTERS/Louiza Vradi
The Greek prime minister highlighted plans for Greece to play an active role in Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction through public–private partnerships, particularly in infrastructure, education and cultural preservation. He also pointed to long-standing ties between Greece and the Ukrainian port city of Odesa, describing the two nations’ relationship as having “deep roots.”
A key part of the talks centered on a new strategic cooperation in energy security. Mitsotakis emphasized Greece’s growing role as an energy hub, citing the activation of a regional LNG supply route and infrastructure connecting Greece with Ukraine. This, he said, will help provide Ukraine with diversified and safer sources of natural gas. He noted that recently signed agreements confirm Greece’s emerging status as a reference point for energy distribution in the region.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at the end of a press conference in Athens, Greece November 16, 2025. REUTERS/Louisa Gouliamaki
Zelensky welcomed the deal, describing it as essential as Russia continues to target Ukraine’s energy infrastructure “every night.” He said most thermal power plants and natural gas facilities have come under missile attack. The Ukrainian president expressed gratitude not only to Greece for its consistent support since 2022, but also to U.S. companies and President Donald Trump for contributing to the energy initiative.
He also thanked Greece for participating in international efforts concerning abducted Ukrainian children and for supporting Ukrainian prisoners of war. Kyiv, he added, is ready to collaborate on modern defense systems as Ukraine expands its domestic defense industry.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis attend a press conference in Athens, Greece November 16, 2025. REUTERS/Louisa Gouliamaki
Earlier, Zelensky was received at the presidential mansion by President Konstantinos Tasoulas, who reiterated Greece’s backing for Ukraine’s sovereignty and referenced the long-standing division of Cyprus as a guiding factor in Greece’s principled stance on violations of international law.
Zelensky warned that Ukraine faces an extremely difficult winter and expressed appreciation for Greece’s assistance, particularly in the energy sector. He also noted that discussions would include the issue of Ukrainian hostages.
