Dialogos

Greece Sees Hybrid Attack Against Cyprus – Gerapetritis Intervention

Published January 16, 2026, 19:00
Greece Sees Hybrid Attack Against Cyprus – Gerapetritis Intervention

Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis assured that Greece will proceed with the expansion of its territorial waters without compromising on sovereignty issues, characterizing sovereignty as a 'red line' in talks with Turkey. He emphasized Greece's steadfast support for Cyprus, which is facing a 'hybrid attack', and its backing of UN initiatives for a Cyprus settlement based on Security Council resolutions. The electrical interconnection between Greece and Cyprus was described as an important project that will contribute to the energy stability of the region. Mr. Gerapetritis reiterated that sovereignty issues will not be discussed with Turkey, insisting that the only matter that can be brought before international jurisdiction is the delimitation of the EEZ and continental shelf. He dismissed accusations of 'timidity' and stressed that the expansion of the territorial waters to 12 nautical miles, the agreements with Italy and Egypt, and the creation of marine parks safeguard Greek sovereignty. Regarding the Greek-Turkish dialogue, the Foreign Minister stated that it will focus on bilateral relations and the positions of the two countries in the world. The government has already taken significant steps to strengthen Greek sovereignty, such as the expansion of territorial waters to 12 nautical miles and the agreements with Italy and Egypt. The statement by Mr. Gerapetritis comes at a time of increased tension in Greece-Turkey relations, with Ankara questioning Greek sovereignty in various areas. The Greek side remains firm in its view that sovereignty is non-negotiable and that the only way to resolve disputes is to respect international law.