On the issue of "green transition," Mitsotakis issued a warning concerning environmental priorities amid fears of negative economic impact.

Hours of debate between EU leaders produced few results. Mitsotakis pressed for southern border protection, but Greece’s insistence on preserving veto power puts Athens in awkward alignment with Viktor Orbán’s Hungary

The Greek PM is expected to stress that reinforcing the EU’s eastern borders cannot come at the expense of its southern frontiers, which also face mounting threats.

Regarding the controversial Turkey-Libya maritime accord, Mitsotakis underscored the importance of the European Council's reaffirming language—at Athens' request—that deems the agreement 'null, void and illegal'

A key addition to the summit’s conclusions came at the initiative of Greece, which proposed the inclusion of specific language regarding the EU’s collaboration with so-called "like-minded countries."

In a pointed message, Mitsotakis stated: “We must convey to the Libyan authorities that this practice cannot be accepted,” revealing his intention to seek the European Union’s backing on the matter.

Greek minister Nikos Dendias points to, but doesn't name Turkey in cautioning against including countries that threaten EU members and don't recognize others in the bloc's defense rearmament planning

Toddlers shown saying 'Welcome to Albania' in their native language

In addition to commenting on defense spending and migration at the end of the EU Summit, the Greek PM voiced concerns over Turkey's democratic backsliding.

Mitsotakis revealed the new directive to the Ministry of Migration and Asylum’s leadership, stating: "The new approach is clear: anyone entering the country illegally and not granted asylum should be returned to the country from which they came."

As the summit unfolds, Greece is expected to advocate for stronger EU defense mechanisms, a fair and effective migration policy, and enhanced economic competitiveness in the face of global challenges.

On the issue of Ukraine, Mitsotakis is expected to emphasize that Europe must speak with a single, unified voice, particularly regarding prospects for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

The push for European defense autonomy is gaining traction, with EU officials acknowledging a growing willingness among member states to take decisive steps in that direction.

PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis reiterated Greece’s support of Ukraine and the European Union’s commitment to peace.

As European leaders gather for this crucial summit, the outcome will likely set the stage for future peace talks and diplomatic initiatives, especially as the war shows no signs of abating

Costa added that discussions clearly focus on anti-aircraft and anti-missile defense, as well as on missiles, ammunition, and mobility.

Greece is at the forefront of the discussion on the necessity of a strong European defense, as its defense spending already exceeds 3% of GDP.

“Everyone should be concerned about ensuring Syria’s territorial integrity and protecting the country’s religious minorities,” Mitsotakis noted.

Mitsotakis is likely to stress that the European Union cannot remain absent from developments in the Middle East and the post-conflict situation in Syria at the EU Summit

The Council’s agenda will include critical issues amid developments in the Middle East, as well as the ongoing Ukraine-Russian war.