Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Athens on Sunday, marking the start of a strategic diplomatic visit to strengthen energy and defense cooperation between Ukraine and Greece. He was greeted at Athens’ Eleftherios Venizelos Airport by Vice Prime Minister Kostis Hatzidakis, with a full military honor guard and a red carpet ceremony.
Zelensky then proceeded to the Presidential Palace, where he met with Greek President Konstantinos Tasoulas. The President emphasized Greece’s steadfast support for Ukraine, underlining that Greek backing has spanned nearly four years across political, diplomatic, military, energy, and humanitarian fronts.
“From the very first moment of the unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, our country has stood firmly by your side in your just fight to protect sovereignty and peace,” Tasoulas said.
He also drew historical parallels with Cyprus, noting that 40% of the island remains under occupation, shaping Greece’s consistent stance on international law and solidarity with nations facing unprovoked aggression. Tasoulas stressed that, despite Greece’s traditional ties with Russia, the current circumstances left no room for hesitation.
Energy and Defense Cooperation
Central to Zelensky’s visit are discussions on the LNG supply corridor and a new energy agreement between Kyiv and Athens, which aims to enhance Ukraine’s energy security this winter. These talks form part of a broader effort to strengthen Ukraine’s European alliances ahead of the winter season.
Official Schedule in Athens
- 13:00 – Talks at the Presidential Palace with President Tasoulas
- 13:45 – Meeting with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at the Maximos Mansion
- 15:00 – Visit to the Greek Parliament and meeting with Speaker Nikitas Kaklamanis
Following Athens, Zelensky will continue his European tour in Paris on Monday and Madrid on Tuesday.
Security Measures
Due to the high-profile visit, Greek authorities imposed a ban on all public outdoor gatherings from 06:00 to 22:00 in central Athens and surrounding northern suburbs. Key roads, including Vasilissis Sofias, Amalias, and Kifisias Avenues, as well as areas around Syntagma Square and Lycabettus Hill, are included.
Authorities stated that the restrictions aim to prevent threats to public safety and potential criminal incidents that could disrupt daily life in the city.
