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Lawyer for Tsikkinis Responds to First Lady's Warning: 'Public Figures Must Tolerate Exaggeration'

Published January 16, 2026, 14:56
Lawyer for Tsikkinis Responds to First Lady's Warning: 'Public Figures Must Tolerate Exaggeration'

The legal team of Nicoletta Tsikkinis is responding to the warning letter sent by the First Lady, challenging the basis of the complaint. Her lawyer, Pampos Ioannidis, argues that the posts cited by the First Lady are older than the period mentioned in the complaint, questioning the timeliness of action under defamation law. He further emphasizes that public figures must tolerate a higher degree of criticism, even if it is excessive. Mr. Ioannidis stated that the most recent post brought to his attention dates back to June 2025, with others being even older, up to 13 months prior. This, according to him, creates inconsistency in the complaint and may result in part of the claims being time-barred. The Tsikkinis side is expected to send a detailed written response within two days, addressing each of the First Lady's claims point by point. The lawyer assured that his client respects the presidential couple, but this should not restrict the exercise of political criticism. Overall, the response from Tsikkinis's side focuses on questioning the legal basis of the complaint, the inconsistency in the timing of the posts, and the need for greater tolerance of criticism from public figures.