Greece’s ongoing agricultural protests are intensifying as farmers respond firmly to the government’s latest statements. Nearly 40 days after tractors first rolled onto national highways, farmer groups are threatening a 48-hour nationwide blockade of roads and customs if their demands are not fully met.
Farmers argue that current government measures—focused on fuel tax refunds rather than untaxed diesel—fall short of addressing their financial and operational needs. “Our limits have been reached,” said Iordanis Ioannidis, a member of the coordinating committee in Nikaia, Thessaly.
Key protest points and disruptions:
- The Nikaia overpass toward Thessaloniki remains closed, with temporary toll openings at Makrychori from 11:00 to 13:00.
- Western Thessaly, Karditsa, Trikala, and Achaia see continued road and toll blockades, including bridges and ports.
- Agrarian movements in Evros plan a 48-hour closure of the Promachonas customs for trucks, while Kipoi customs remain open for light vehicles and perishable goods.
- Chania farmers in Crete will close the national highway Thursday and march to the local tax office Friday.
Government officials have emphasized that the announced support measures are final and universal. Spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis stated, “These measures are for all farmers, not just those at the blockades. There will be no additional measures, and the government has exhausted its patience.”
Political opposition, however, has criticized the government, highlighting a “trust deficit” and calling for more targeted, concrete actions to ensure farmers’ sustainability. SYRIZA’s Vasilis Kokkalis stressed that “before any development in the agricultural sector, viability must be guaranteed,” while PASOK’s Vasia Anastasiou warned against creating societal divisions over the issue.
As the deadlock continues, authorities are monitoring road conditions and coordinating traffic diversions to minimize disruptions. Farmers insist that dialogue cannot replace substantial measures, signaling further escalation unless the government revises its approach.
With the threat of widespread 48-hour blockades looming Thursday and Friday, Greece faces another critical round of protests that could significantly impact transportation and logistics nationwide.
