Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ recent – and very high profile – reference to the prospect of developing small nuclear reactors in the country, as part of a broader effort with France to strengthen Europe’s energy independence, raised eyebrows, both domestically and in the region.

Mitsotakis specifically referred to small modular reactors (SMRs), a technology that supporters say could help Europe diversify its energy mix and reduce reliance on external suppliers.

The Greek prime minister’s reference comes after a stated volition by French President Emmanuel Macron to reshape Europe’s energy policy by limiting dependence on Russian energy sources.

The latest developments in the Middle East and broader geopolitical tensions have reinforced concerns in Europe about the stability of global energy supply chains, prompting renewed debate over alternative sources of reliable and continuous power.

Greek and French officials have previously discussed positioning Greece as an energy hub in southeast Europe, potentially expanding the country’s role in regional energy distribution and infrastructure.

Cooperation between Athens and Washington is also at an advanced stage in terms of energy issues.

Supporters of a “nuclear future” argue that additional energy capacity will also be needed to support the rapid growth of data centers, cybersecurity infrastructure and other strategic digital systems, all of which require large and stable power supplies, and all of which have been cited by the Mitsotakis government as strategic options for the country.