Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias sent a clear message from Samos on December 26, stressing that Greece poses no threat to any neighboring country. Responding to Turkey’s accusations, he said, “Our homeland threatens no one. Greece has not expressed revisionist claims or issued any threats of war.”

Dendias highlighted that while Greece maintains a defensive posture, it is fully committed to protecting its sovereignty and constitutional rights. “These sacred duties reflect our history, traditions, and responsibility to future generations,” he added during his visit to the 79th Mechanized Infantry Brigade.

Turkey’s Defense Ministry had previously criticized the trilateral military cooperation between Israel, Greece, and Cyprus, claiming it was a source of regional tension. Ankara argued that violations of Greek airspace stem from inconsistent Greek approaches to territorial waters and airspace, while asserting its own preference for dialogue and stability in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean.

The Turkish ministry stressed that its regional stance aligns with NATO cooperation and maintains its security position regarding the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. It reiterated a commitment to peaceful resolution of disputes, emphasizing dialogue and international law.