The Greek Current

In late December a petition was launched titled “Nostos for Greek Adoptees,” asking the Greek state to recognize some 4,000 Greek-born adoptees - the so-called Lost Children of Greece. While there were many legal adoptions during the post-war era, many were not. Dr. Mary Cardaras, a Greek-born adoptee, author, journalist, and founder and director of The Demos Center at The American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to tell the story of these Lost Children of Greece, and look at what steps can be taken from Athens to bring them back to their roots.Dr. Mary Cardaras is also the author of “Ripped at the Root” and editor of “Voices of the Lost Children of Greece”.Read Mary Cardaras’ latest in Kathimerini on this subject here: Nostos for Greek adoptees: It’s long past timeOur stories and our records belong to usYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece says it’s hoping to nudge ally Armenia’s alliances westwardUS tourist numbers increasing rapidly

Last year was a record year for Greek tourism, with the latest statistics showing a remarkable comeback for the sector from the years of lockdowns during the pandemic. While these trends are welcome, there are also some worrying signs, as 2023 saw an increasing use of the term “over tourism”. Georgia Nakou, a features editor at MacroPolis - a specialist website focused on political and economic analysis of Greek affairs, joins Thanos Davelis to break down this record year for tourism, the causes for concern amid questions of sustainability, and the government’s response.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Record year for Greek tourism raises concerns about sustainabilityKasselakis vows to revamp SYRIZA ahead of European electionsSYRIZA decides against inner party electionsPresident Christodoulides prepares Cyprus for new sanctions unit

This past week protests and politics took center stage in Greece, as farmers - like many of their European counterparts - descended on Athens with their tractors to demand that the government do more to improve their working and living conditions. As the protests were wrapping up, Greece’s main opposition party SYRIZA kicked off a convention that has now raised the prospects of a fresh leadership race within the party months after Stefanos Kasselakis was elected. Iliana Magra, a journalist with Kathimerini who covered the farmers’ protests and the SYRIZA convention, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest analysis from Athens.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greek farmers drive tractors to parliament to demand financial helpThousands rally in Athens as Greek farmers step up protestsKasselakis throws gauntlet at party detractorsFresh SYRIZA leadership battle on the cardsGovernment plans to bring in 40,000 workers from six countriesTurkey Pursues and Seizes Critics Abroad: Human Rights Watch

On February 18th the floating storage regasification unit in Alexandroupoli received its first test shipment of U.S. liquefied natural gas. Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources Geoffrey Pyatt described the successful opening of the Alexandroupolis FSRU as a ‘milestone” in “the longstanding transatlantic effort to diversify European energy routes and suppliers.” In other energy news, it looks like decision time has come for the hydrocarbon survey program off Crete by ExxonMobil and Helleniq Energy. Dr. Theodoros Tsakiris, an associate professor of geopolitics and energy policy at the University of Nicosia, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what these developments mean for Greece and the region.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:First gas load to Alexandroupoli FSRUAlexandroupolis LNG Terminal going live after test runsKey moment for blocks off CreteFresh SYRIZA leadership battle on the cardsAlbanian Parliament approves controversial deal to hold migrants for ItalyTop EU official lauds Italy-Albania migration deal but a court and a rights commissioner have doubts

As Western leaders gathered in Munich this weekend for the Munich Security Conference, warnings about Russian President Putin’s possible next moves were mixed with Europe’s growing concerns that it could soon be abandoned by the United States as aid to Ukraine is stalled in Congress and former President Trump casts doubts on America’s commitment to NATO. Max Bergmann, the director of the Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program and the Stuart Center in Euro-Atlantic and Northern European Studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), joins Thanos Davelis to look at these concerns and explore whether European defense has now become a necessity.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Europe’s security elite braces for Trump, searches for backup plansAs Putin Threatens, Despair and Hedging in EuropeCan Europe defend itself without America?Greece to prioritize strengthening relations with India, says PMGreece is India’s gateway to Europe, PM saysGreek farmers join tractor protest in front of parliament for second day

Last week Turkey’s President Erdogan traveled to Egypt, where he met with his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. While both leaders said they were turning a "new leaf" in their relations after over a decade of estrangement, differences remain, and it seems Cairo is still wary of Ankara. Expert Constantinos Filis, the Director of the Institute of Global Affairs and an associate professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss Erdogan’s latest visit to Egypt, whether Cairo is really ready to mend fences, and what these developments mean for the broader region.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Αρθρο Κ. Φίλη στην «Κ»: Υποχρεωτική επανεκκίνηση με αστερίσκους για Αίγυπτο και ΤουρκίαErdogan says Turkey ready to cooperate with Egypt on GazaRelations between Turkey and Egypt turn 'new leaf' as Erdogan visits CairoThousands join rally in Athens as farmers step up protestMitsotakis stresses importance of strategic partnership during official visit to IndiaGreece’s gateway to Asia, India’s gateway to Europe

Greece’s Kathimerini newspaper just reported on the contents of the final draft of a letter from the State Department to Congress that implies that the F-16 and F-35 sales to Turkey and Greece come with conditions, refuting Ankara’s narrative that no such letter existed. This letter comes on the heels of a two week period in DC that put the spotlight on the US-Greece relationship, from the Strategic Dialogue to the 5th Southeast Europe and Eastern Mediterranean forum. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to break down these important developments from Washington, DC, and look at what message they send about US-Greece ties.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Joint Statement on the U.S.-Greece 5th Strategic DialogueGreece’s role in shifting global dynamicsImportant strategic dialogue about what’s happening between Greece and USF-16s to Ankara, F-35s to Athens come with conditionsNational Security Memorandum on Safeguards and Accountability With Respect to Transferred Defense Articles and Defense ServicesPM says govt has ‘nothing more to offer’ to farmersFarmers’ descent on Athens to dominate the agendaEU mission to protect Red Sea ship launched under Greek commandEU launches Red Sea naval mission to protect shipping from Houthi attacks

On Thursday Greece finally approved a landmark marriage equality bill, becoming the first majority Orthodox Christian country to take such a step. This is a watershed moment for the country’s LGBTQ community, but, as Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis put it, is also a milestone for human rights. Nikos Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author who has reported extensively on this issue, joins Thanos Davelis to look at this historic moment for Greece, and the ripple effects it is having beyond the country’s borders.Read Nikos Efstathiou’s latest piece for Kathimerini here: Marriage equality bill has ripple effects outside GreeceYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece Becomes First Orthodox Country to Legalize Same-Sex MarriageMitsotakis calls for streamlining Europe’s defense industryJournalists in Turkey Welcome Ruling Restoring Online Access to Banned News Articles

2024 will see billions of people head to the polls, with a number of key elections - including in the US - on the horizon. This comes as we’ve also seen illiberal values and politicians who embrace them gain ground across the board. The eyes of the world will justifiably be on the US presidential election in November, where it is increasingly looking like we are in for a repeat of the 2020 election. William Antholis, the director and CEO of UVA’s Miller Center of Public Affairs, joins Thanos Davelis to look at these upcoming elections, with a focus on the US, and break down what’s at stake for the US and democracies around the world, including Greece.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:2024 brings wave of elections with global democracy on the ballotTrump Will Abandon NatoWhy John Bolton Is Certain Trump Really Wants to Blow Up NATOTrump’s NATO Threat Reflects a Wider Shift on America’s Place in the WorldGreece Becomes First Orthodox Country to Legalize Same-Sex MarriageGreece becomes first Orthodox Christian country to legalize same-sex civil marriageEni drills second well at Cronos gas discovery off Cyprus

We just wrapped up the Southeastern Europe and Eastern Mediterranean conference here in Washington, DC, a forum Kathimerini English Edition, HALC, and the Delphi Economic Forum have organized now for 5 years running. During the conference we saw Greece, Greek-American relations, Cyprus, developments in the Balkans, and the wars in the Middle East and Ukraine take center stage. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English edition, joins Thanos Davelis in Washington to break down the main takeaways from the past few days in DC.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greek-American relations on the agenda of Kathimerini’s 5th Southeast Europe and EastMed ForumMost Greeks view US stance positively, poll findsUS will be ‘closely monitoring’ TurkeyErdogan says Turkey ready to cooperate with Egypt on GazaTurkey’s Erdogan receives red-carpet reception in Egypt, calls Sisi 'brother'Cyprus could produce first natural gas as soon as 2026, minister says

For many, Cyprus has largely been defined by the Turkish occupation. This view is changing, however, as Cyprus positions itself as a frontline state for Western interests and an increasingly relevant strategic partner for the United States. Evangelos Savva, the Ambassador of Cyprus to the United States, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss how Cyprus has moved from being viewed solely as a problem to becoming part of the solution to key regional challenges, and look at whether Cyprus’s regional relevance can help solve the Cyprus problem.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:From “problem” to “solution”: Cyprus as a strategic partner, diplomatic linchpin, and occupied state”John Sarbanes presented with Leader awardGreek-American relations on the agenda of Kathimerini’s 5th Southeast Europe and EastMed ForumKathimerini Forum: Signs of optimism in the Western Balkans, but no closer to EU accessionFor rights campaigner in Greece, same-sex marriage recognition follows decades of struggleGreece on the brink of legalising same-sex marriage

On Friday Greece and the US held their fifth Strategic Dialogue, which, among other things, also saw Greece become the 35th country to sign up to the US Artemis space cooperation accords. Greece’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Ambassador Alexandra Papadopoulou, joins Thanos Davelis on the sidelines of the 5th Southeast Europe and Eastern Mediterranean conference in Washington, DC, to discuss the key takeaways from this latest Strategic Dialogue and highlight what it means for the bilateral relationship. We also look at Greece’s effort to obtain a seat as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, and ongoing talks with Turkey.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Joint Statement on the U.S.-Greece Strategic DialogueGreece signs up to US Artemis space cooperation accordsForeign minister to push for UN Security Council seatCyprus president wants the EU to discuss designating Syria safe zones for refugeesUS will be ‘closely monitoring’ Turkey

A few weeks ago Turkey finally approved Sweden’s NATO bid. In return, Ankara got a green light from the Biden administration for F-16s, something that’s been on President Erdogan’s wishlist. Now, despite Erdogan’s antics over Sweden and his playing host to Iran and Russia’s leaders, it looks like the Biden administration is employing a new approach of positive reinforcement with Ankara. Expert Sinan Ciddi joins Thanos Davelis to explain why now is not the time for Washington to reward Turkey’s Erdogan.Sinan Ciddi is a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), where he contributes to FDD’s Turkey Program and Center on Military and Political Power (CMPP). He is also an Associate Professor of Security Studies at the Command and Staff College-Marine Corps University and Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service.Read Sinan Ciddi’s latest here: Don’t reward ErdoganYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:United States Welcomes Greece’s Signing of the Artemis AccordsGov’t mulls raising Golden Visa threshold to tackle housing crisis

Greek and US officials will hold the 5th Strategic Dialogue in Washington, DC on Friday, and Foreign Minister Gerapetritis will also meet with Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The agenda ranges from regional developments to the sale of F-35 jets and the possibility of co-producing Constellation-class frigates. As the Strategic Dialogue kicks off, another set of discussions is taking place in the Eastern Mediterranean, where the UN chief’s new personal envoy for Cyprus is meeting with all stakeholders. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to look at Friday’s Strategic Dialogue in DC, and discuss the latest developments on the Cyprus issue. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:FM heads to Washington with full agendaStudents block Athens streets to protest private universities possibly coming to GreeceGreek students step up protests against private university planNatural gas exports from Cyprus to Egypt ‘key’ for energy relationsChristodoulides and Egypt's FM Shoukry discuss common challenges

Over the past years Greece has seen a sharp increase in home prices and rents, with many talking about a housing crisis as Greeks are being priced out of the property market. This has put the spotlight on the Golden Visa scheme. Yiannis Mouzakis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, a political and economic analysis site that focuses on Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Greece’s housing crisis and the Golden Visa scheme. We also explore whether it's time, now that the Greek economy has returned to a much more stable path, for Greece to rethink this scheme and take bold steps to address this crisis.Read Yiannis Mouzakis’ latest here: Time running out for Golden Visa as housing problems increaseYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Farmers intensify protests, block highwaysPrivate universities bill unveiled

One year ago southeastern Turkey was devastated by a series of powerful earthquakes that killed tens of thousands and left even more without homes. It also ushered in a period of calm in the Aegean, as Greece was quick to assist its Turkish neighbors. A year later, the magnitude of this disaster continues to not only defy massive recovery efforts, but also impact Turkey’s relations with Greece. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition and Politico’s Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss a recent trip with a team of international journalists to southeast Turkey that looked into the ways this earthquake continues to impact Turkey and the region.Read Nektaria Stamouli’s latest for Kathimerini here: Turkey, a year after the life-changing earthquakesYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Vanished kids and rampant corruption: Horrors behind Turkey’s earthquake lingerGreek-Turkish ties could hit some snagsUN Cyprus envoy discusses obstacles with PMTurkey revives plan to convert another iconic Byzantine site into a mosque

While no major news on the Parthenon Sculptures has emerged since British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s infamous snub of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in late last year, the incident reinvigorated the debate around the return of the Sculptures to their home in Athens. Nikos Efstathiou, who was just in London reporting on the issue for Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the sentiment in London, and why the return of the Parthenon Sculptures seems all but inevitable. Read Nikos Efstathiou’s latest piece in Kathimerini here: In London, the return of the Parthenon Sculptures seems all but inevitableYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece will not compromise ‘core positions,’ say sourcesGreek-Turkish ties could hit some snagsGov’t rules out additional support for farmersFarmers unsatisfied with government measures

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and his cabinet have been under pressure these past days, as farmers and students across the country have taken to the streets in protest. This comes as Mitsotakis also prepares to pass a key marriage equality bill this month, and as the latest polls show a slight drop in support for New Democracy and the government. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, a political and economic analysis site that focuses on Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to look at these challenges and break down how they could impact the Mitsotakis government. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Strong public support for farmers adds to pressure on PM for more measuresWhy are farmers protesting across the EU and what can the bloc do about it?Students and police clash in Greece as debate rages over legalizing private universitiesHoly Synod warns of impact on family in letter to MPsAthens airport IPO attracts strong demand after two-year lull in EuropeAthens Airport IPO Caps String of Events Showing Greece Is BackBritish Museum director backs Parthenon Marbles loan planTurkey Israel: 'Seven arrested for passing information to Mossad'

After a proposal by Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias, Greece is set to serve as the headquarters of the EU naval operation in the Red Sea against Iranian-backed Houthi militants dubbed operation Aspides. At the same time, Greece has also proposed taking command of the mission. Revecca Pedi, an associate professor of international relations at the University of Macedonia in Thessaloniki, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this latest initiative from Athens, and break down the message it sends as Greece looks to take on more important and impactful roles in the region and within the EU. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:EU Red Sea operation HQ to be in LarissaEU naval mission to protect ships in Red Sea set to be launched on 19 FebruaryStudents and police clash in Greece as debate rages over legalizing private universitiesClashes erupt at Greek protest against education reformGreece hit record high green energy output last year

On Thursday European leaders will look to overcome growing resistance to further aid for Ukraine, with Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban vowing to defy EU pressure to approve a four-year €50 billion aid package to the war torn country. EU support is seen as crucial to Ukraine’s war effort. John Psaropoulos, an independent journalist based in Athens and Al Jazeera's Southeast Europe correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the stakes for Ukraine and why Orban is insisting on this standoff. We also break down the view from Greece, with Prime Minister Mitsotakis reiterating this week that Athens remains committed to supporting Ukraine.Read John Psaropoulos’ latest here: Ukraine funding, Orban’s opposition set to dominate crucial EU summitYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece proposes command of EU naval mission in Red SeaEU aiming to launch Red Sea naval mission by mid-FebErdogan to Visit Egypt to Reboot Ties After Decade-Long Friction

In a major escalation in the Middle East crisis, three US service members were killed and dozens more injured in a drone strike on the Syrian-Jordanian border by the Iranian-backed Islamic Resistance. This comes as attacks on US personnel in Iraq and Syria have surged since October, and as Washington has been debating a full withdrawal from Syria. Amberin Zaman, Al-Monitor’s chief correspondent covering major stories on the Middle East and North Africa, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this latest deadly attack, what it could mean for the region, and what a potential US withdrawal from Syria would mean for America’s partners on the ground - the Syrian Kurds - and for the fight against ISIS.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:U.S. troops killed, wounded in Jordan attack blamed on Iranian proxiesPentagon floats plan for its Syrian Kurd allies to partner with Assad against ISISAmerica Is Planning to Withdraw From Syria—and Create a DisasterUS opens F-35 window to AnkaraUS ready to welcome Turkey ‘back into F-35 family’ if S-400 issue is resolved

In 2019 the Greek Orthodox Patriarchs of Constantinople and Alexandria recognised the independence of the newly formed Orthodox Church of Ukraine. Since then, Moscow has attempted to undermine not only the Ecumenical Patriarchate, but also the Patriarch of Alexandria, which claims exclusive jurisdiction over Africa and accuses the Russian church of meddling in the continent. Prof. George Demacopoulos joins Thanos Davelis to explore why Russia is trying to split the Orthodox Church in Africa, and explain why this should be viewed as part of a larger Russian project whereby Putin uses the church to advance his own global ambitions.Prof. Demacopoulos is the Fr. John Meyendorff & Patterson Family Chair of Orthodox Christian Studies at Fordham University. He is Co-Founding Director of Fordham’s Orthodox Christian Studies Center and Co-Founding Editor of the Journal of Orthodox Christian Studies.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Russia’s plan to seduce Christians in AfricaAlbanian appeals court rejects Beleri’s request to take oathHungary vows to defy EU ‘blackmail’ over Ukraine fundingBrussels threatens to hit Hungary’s economy if Viktor Orbán vetoes Ukraine aid

After over a year of delays, the Biden administration on Friday formally informed Congress of its intention to proceed with a deal to sell F-35 stealth fighter jets to Greece. At the same time, it also notified Congress of the sale of F-16 fighter jets to Turkey. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has described this move as an important milestone for Greece and for US-Greece relations. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest analysis from Athens as we look at what this means for Greece, US-Greece relations, and more.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:US advances fighter jet sale to Greece, Turkey; Congress likely to approveChair Cardin Welcomes Turkey’s Action on Sweden’s NATO Accession, Approves Sale of F-16s to Turkey, Expresses Concern on New Hungarian IntransigenceAthens irked by US delays in arms timetableCyprus offers measures to support estranged Turkish CypriotsBlock on Turkish Cypriot mixed marriages for citizenship lifted

While the tourism boom in Greece over the last years can be felt across the country, its epicenter is a group of islands in the Aegean known as the Cyclades. The tourism boom is also fueling seemingly nonstop development on the islands, putting the focus on the sustainability of this development model. Yannis Palaiologos, a journalist at large with Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss how tourism and frantic development is impacting Greece’s most popular islands, and look into the efforts of a relatively new initiative called the Sustainable Cyclades project, which aims to put a spotlight on these issues.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:The Sustainable Cyclades projectAs Development Alters Greek Islands’ Nature and Culture, Locals Push BackTurkey's Edrogan signs off on Sweden's NATO membership#NoJetsForTurkey coalition calls for US Congress scrutiny of F-16 saleStudents in Greece protest plans to introduce private universities

Turkey’s Parliament voted on Tuesday to approve Sweden’s membership into NATO, clearing one of the final hurdles for a major expansion of the military alliance. The move comes after nearly two years of Ankara setting roadblocks and delaying Sweden’s swift accession to the NATO alliance. Despite Tuesday’s vote Sweden’s accession is not yet guaranteed. Henri Barkey, the Cohen Professor of International Relations at Lehigh University and Adjunct Senior Fellow for Middle East Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this latest move by Turkey’s Parliament and look at the lessons US policymakers should walk away with from Erdogan’s handling of Sweden’s NATO accession.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkey Backs Sweden’s NATO BidTurkey votes in favor of Sweden’s NATO membership after months of delayBiden urges US Congress to approve F-16 sale to Turkey 'without delay'Government aims to secure at least 120 Conservative votes

As Greece bounces back from a decade of economic crisis, earning praise in headlines and features across the board - from The Economist to the Wall Street Journal - it is also up against a series of challenges. One of those is the demographic challenge, which has been described as existential. Nikos Konstandaras, a columnist for Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to break down how Greece, given the position it finds itself in today, has a unique window of opportunity to push key reforms forward that would go a long way toward tackling some of the key challenges the country is up against.Read Nikos Konstandaras’ latest in Kathimerini: Facing the future and ourselvesYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkey Backs Sweden’s NATO BidParties clash over emigrant postal voting billCabinet to discuss same-sex marriage bill on Wednesday

On Monday Greece introduced a bill that would allow for voting by mail, a long-standing request of diaspora Greeks and a measure that has been applied in almost all modern democracies. Interior Minister Niki Kerameus said the reform will make it easier to exercise the right to vote and will deepen democracy. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English edition, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this latest step by the Mitsotakis government, and break down what it could mean for Greek democracy and for diaspora Greeks.Read Tom Ellis’ latest in Kathimerini: On the mail-in voteYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Postal voting will ‘deepen democracy’Postal voting bill amendment seeks inclusion of Greeks abroad in national electionsMitsotakis, Blinken discuss developments in Gaza and the Red SeaTurkey Parliament Set to Vote on Sweden’s NAT0 Bid This Week

This week the leaders of the Hellenic Caucus in Congress sent a letter to President Biden calling on him to invite President Christodoulides to the White House to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus. They also urged the Biden administration to take a series of steps that could take the US-Cyprus relationship to new heights. In the meantime, Prime Minister Mitsotakis will visit New York and Chicago next week, a visit that highlights Greece’s growing reputation beyond Washington. Endy Zemenides, HALC’s Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis to break down the latest developments on Cyprus in Washington, and provide a look ahead at Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ upcoming visit to the US.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Sarbanes, Hellenic Caucus Leaders Urge President Biden to Formally Invite the President of Cyprus to the White House to Mark 50th Anniversary of Turkish Invasion of CyprusPrime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Greece's Economic ComebackGov’t rules out referendum on same-sex marriage billIeronymos says referendum could be held on same-sex civil marriagesGreece to Sell ‘Significant’ Stake in Piraeus Bank in Months (1)Mitsotakis says he wants Greece to become exporter of green energy

As Greece’s government looks set to get marriage equality legislation over the finish line, the bill itself has managed to rattle Greece’s political system - particularly within New Democracy, Greece’s ruling party. Given dissent within New Democracy over the bill, the government will need to look across the aisle to pass it. Nikos Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this bill, look at how it's impacting Greece’s political scene, and touch on the broader public debate around the issue of marriage equality - including hate speech on social media platforms. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Government to bring forward bill on marriage equalitySame-sex marriage spices up Greece’s political sceneTiptoeing into same-sex marriageGreek students protest government plan for private universitiesHellenic Caucus leaders call on US president to commemorate 50th anniversary of Cyprus invasionRead the letter Hellenic Caucus leaders sent to President Biden

The seemingly unstoppable rise of tourism is transforming countries in ways that until recently belonged to the realm of the imagination. Greece is no exception, as it’s among the places most affected by this trend. Professor Stathis Kalyvas, the chairman of the Board of Directors at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center and Gladstone Professor of Government at the University of Oxford’s Department of Politics and International Relations, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how the rise of tourism is changing Greece, and what challenges this poses for the country in the coming years.Read Prof. Stathis Kalyvas’ latest in Kathimerini: What does the tourist boom mean for Greece?You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Athens blocking EU-Tirana defense pactFM Gerapetritis: Situation in Gaza requires immediate action

About a week ago Secretary of State Antony Blinken traveled to Turkey, where he met with Turkish President Erdogan. Diplomatic sources said Blinken arrived bearing potential gifts to entice Turkey to wrap up the issue of Sweden’s NATO membership. These included everything from new ways to provide F-16s to Turkey to a White House visit for Turkish President Erdogan. Michael Rubin, the director of policy analysis at the Middle East Forum, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, and a former Pentagon official, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why rewarding Erdogan for actions that responsible governments do without enticement only encourages blackmail.Read Michael Rubin’s latest here: No, Erdogan should never again step foot in the White HouseYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greek government plans Athens airport IPO to sell 30% stakeIrregular border crossings at an eight-year high in 2023, says Frontex

Greece’s Defense Minister Nikos Dendias recently outlined a new approach for how the Greek armed forces will be run, calling it “the armed forces of 2030”. Part of this new approach includes bolstering Greece’s defense industry, as Dendias noted that Greece cannot continue to buy everything it needs from abroad without producing anything of its own. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the key takeaways from his exclusive interview with Defense Minister Dendias, and give us an inside look at the changes Greece is looking to implement.Read Vassilis Nedos interview with Defense Minister Dendias: We can’t keep buying off the shelfYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece appeals to Iran for captured tankerTurkey serving as ‘de facto executive arm of Hamas,’ Israel’s Gallant saysSagiv Jehezkel: Israel footballer leaves Turkey after hostage plea rowIsraeli footballer censured in Turkey for October 7 tribute returns home

This new year finds Washington in a bind over how to effectively engage with Turkey, a trend we’ve documented for at least half a decade. The tug of war over Sweden and F16s, and Ankara’s stance on the Arab-Israeli conflict, are the latest examples of this. Expert Sinan Ciddi joins Thanos Davelis to break down why a tough stance toward Ankara - setting clear parameters and enforcing them relentlessly - is the only way to defend US regional interests and stop Erdogan’s mercurial and manipulative policies.Sinan Ciddi is a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), where he contributes to FDD’s Turkey Program and Center on Military and Political Power (CMPP). He is also an Associate Professor of Security Studies at the Command and Staff College-Marine Corps University and Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service.Read Sinan Ciddi’s latest here:The United States Needs to Play Hardball With TurkeyErdogan’s electoral strategy for 2024: Vilify IsraelYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Iran, Russia decry Houthi strikes; Erdogan: US, UK want to turn Red Sea into bloodbathErdogan accuses U.S., Britain of trying to turn Red Sea into 'sea of blood'Greek PM faces fierce opposition over pledge to legalise gay marriageGreek prime minister says legislation allowing same-sex marriage will be presented soonSamaras rejects idea that ND MPs opposed to same-sex marriage abstain from vote

Greece’s government announced on Wednesday it will scrap all the fines imposed on the elderly who never got vaccinated against Covid-19, a move which has sparked heated debate in Greece. The decision comes amid a simultaneous outbreak of three respiratory infections, including Covid-19 and influenza. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition and Politico’s Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this latest move by the government, look at the reactions it has sparked, and break down how this new wave of infections is impacting the country.Read Nektaria Stamouli’s latest article in Kathimerini: From fines to ‘olive branch’, government scraps vaccine policyYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Poll confirms ND’s dominance, support for private universitiesGreek government’s plans to legalize same-sex marriage win key opposition backingCyprus sees significant impact on shipping from Houthis

Over a year ago there were concerns that Turkey’s provocations and threats in the Aegean could turn into conflict. Over the last year, Turkey’s President Erdogan has pulled a 180 degree shift in policy, de-escalating tensions. Ryan Gingeras, a professor in the Department of National Security Affairs at the Naval Postgraduate School and an expert on Turkish, Balkan, and Middle East history, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the prospects for Greek-Turkish relations in 2024, the role of Washington, and what to expect in US-Turkey ties as the year unfolds.Read Ryan Gingeras’ latest interview with Kathimerini here: Prospects for Greek-Turkish relations to emerge clearly by springYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Gov’t unveils new measures to combat soaring pricesUN's new special envoy heads to Cyprus in early February

As Europeans prepare to head to the polls in June to vote for the European Parliament, there is a growing concern as far-right parties are making gains across the continent. We have seen far right candidates win elections in the Netherlands, while France’s National Rally and the German Alternative for Germany are gaining in popularity amid concerns over migration and inflation. Alexandra Voudouri, Kathimerini's Brussels correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what’s at stake this year in Europe’s elections, and whether this growing support for the far-right could turn into a political tsunami by June.Read Alexandra Voudouri’s latest for Kathimerini: Κινδυνεύει η Ε.E. από ακροδεξιό «τσουνάμι»;You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Visualizing 2024: Trends to WatchMake or break for the EU? Europeans vote in June with far right on the riseEU elections could be major turning point for Europe's far-rightPM vows to accelerate reforms in meeting with cabinetPM champions Greece’s success in curbing irregular migrationEU Commissioner Johansson stresses need for migrants to address EU’s labor shortage

Secretary of State Antony Blinken was in Greece this weekend, and he and Prime Minister Mitsotakis once again highlighted how Greece-US relations are at their best, with both countries standing together in the face of some of the most acute challenges in the region. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to break down the key takeaways from Secretary Blinken’s latest visit to Greece, and explain why it is time to apply the Biden Administration’s domestic mantra - “Build back better” - to its foreign policy, particularly its ties with Greece.Read Endy Zemenides’ latest piece in Kathimerini here: Blinken should build back better when he meets MitsotakisYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:‘We are standing together,’ says Blinken during meeting with Greek PMCyprus replaces defense, health, justice, farm ministers in reshuffleGreek bonds coming highly recommended

2024 will see more than four billion people across three dozen countries head to the polls, in what the Washington Post has described as possibly “the greatest rolling spectacle of democracy in human history.” The stakes will be high in many countries, but all eyes, including in Greece, will be on the US elections as the latest polls suggest we may be in for a repeat of the 2020 election between President Biden and former President Trump. Constantinos Filis, the Director of the Institute of Global Affairs and an associate professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the upcoming US elections, and break down what they could mean for Greece and the US-Greek relationship.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Να φοβάται η Αθήνα τις κάλπες στις ΗΠΑ;2024 brings wave of elections with global democracy on the ballotTen Elections to Watch in 2024PM champions restored Palace of Aigai for worldwide heritage, catalyst for growthLeaders embrace appointment of UN envoyCuellar announced as UN ‘personal envoy’ to Cyprus

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis set the tone for the new year this week, announcing a mini cabinet reshuffle aimed at boosting his government ahead of expected reforms. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English edition, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what we should expect following this reshuffle and look at Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ agenda for 2024, which includes passing key legislation permitting non-state universities in Greece, allowing for postal voting, and legalizing same-sex marriage. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greek PM sacks police minister in mini reshuffle, key posts unchangedGreek government says it stands by same-sex marriage pledge even after opposition from the ChurchMini cabinet reshuffle announced, key posts unchangedBlinken’s visit to Greece confirmedBlinken heads to the Mideast again as fears of regional conflict surge

On Wednesday the US and a host of international allies warned that Iran-backed Houthi militants will face “consequences” if they continue to “threaten lives” and disrupt trade in the Red Sea. Earlier this week, what’s become an increasingly volatile crisis gained a new dimension as Iran sent a warship to the region, escalating tensions. Bradley Bowman, the senior director of the Center on Military and Political Power at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the big picture amid escalating tensions in the Red Sea, including what this could mean for the Eastern Mediterranean.Read Brad Bowman’s latest snapshot for FDD here: Iran Deploys Warship to Red Sea As Houthis Continue AttacksYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:US and allies warn Houthis of ‘consequences’ as Red Sea crisis intensifiesIranian warship enters Red Sea as tensions riseMaersk halts Red Sea shipping until further notice after Houthi militant attackMini cabinet reshuffle announced, key posts unchangedBlinken expected to visit Greece, sources say

It seemed Sweden was ready to cross the finish line last week, with the stage set for Turkey’s parliament to vote on Sweden’s NATO bid. At the 11th hour, however, Turkey introduced new demands over its request for F-16s. This has put Washington in a bind, as for months the issue of F-16s to Turkey seems to have been linked to the sale of F-35s to Greece. Lena Argiri, the DC correspondent for ERT - Greece’s public broadcaster - and a contributor to Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis from Washington with the latest analysis on Sweden, Turkey and the US, and breaks down why Washington may not be able to afford delaying the sale of F-35s to Greece much longer.Read Lena Argiri’s latest here in Kathimerini here: Το άγνωστο τελεσίγραφο Μπλίνκεν σε Φιντάν για τα F-16You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Screened in Cyprus, British and Cypriot aid heads to Gaza via EgyptTurkey says UK minehunters can’t be sent to UkraineTurkey to block minehunter ships intended for Ukraine

The US has put together an international armada to deter Iranian-backed Houthi militias from Yemen from attacking shipping in the Red Sea, and this week Greece announced that it will participate in this US led mission - dubbed Operation Prosperity Guardian. Nikolas Katsimpras, a lecturer in Columbia University’s Negotiation and Conflict Resolution Program, an international affairs consultant, a veteran officer of the Hellenic Navy, and a contributor to Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the Red Sea crisis, look at why it’s significant from Greece’s perspective, and break down why is it important that Greece plays an active role in this effort.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greek frigate to join Prosperity GuardianHow Houthi rebels are threatening global trade nexus on Red SeaShips rerouted by Red Sea crisis face overwhelmed African portsShippers have already diverted over $80 billion in cargo from the Red Sea amid fears of attacksGreece plans to raise up to €10 bln from debt markets in 2024Turkey Puts Sweden’s NATO Bid Back on Agenda Next WeekTurkish commission to meet next week to discuss Swedish NATO bid

The European Union on Wednesday broke years of political deadlock, striking a landmark deal on migration as negotiators worked through the night to agree on the overhaul of the bloc’s asylum procedures. The breakthrough was hailed as “historic” by EU leaders. Angeliki Dimitriadi, the head of the migration program at ELIAMEP, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this new migration deal, and break down what it means for frontline states like Greece and Cyprus. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:EU strikes ‘historic’ migration dealMigration is derailing leaders from Biden to Macron. Who’s next?Migration pact meets key Greek demandsDendias: Greece will dispatch frigate to Red SeaIsrael, Cyprus discuss ‘fast track’ maritime lane for aid to Gaza

It's been almost one year since the State Department notified Congress of the potential F-35 sale to Greece. Unfortunately, the sale has still yet to move forward. This delay coincides with Turkish President Erdogan’s attempts to use Sweden’s NATO membership to pressure the US over the sale of F16s. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the HALC, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the efforts to move the F35 sale to Greece forward, and break down why progress in Greek-American relations should not be affected by the dysfunctional relationship between the US and Turkey.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Complete the sale of F-35s to GreeceTurkey links Sweden’s NATO bid to US approving F-16 jet sales and Canada lifting arms embargoTurkey says Canada, US linking drone-camera exports to Sweden NATO membershipCongress presses State Department on Turkey’s drone programGreece approves new law granting undocumented migrants residence rights, provided they have a jobFiscal reforms agreed by EU governments

For the second year in a row The Economist once again listed Greece as the top economic performer of the year out of a list of 35 countries, beating the likes of the United States, the UK, Germany, and Japan. Alex Patelis, the chief economic adviser to Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, joins Thanos Davelis to look at Greece’s economic performance over the last year, and break down why we should expect Greece’s economy to continue to outperform in the coming year.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Which economy did best in 2023?MPs OK 2024 budgetGreece Plans Sale of Up to €10 Billion in Bonds After UpgradeTurkey links Sweden’s NATO bid to US approving F-16 jet sales and Canada lifting arms embargoErdogan says signals from US, Canada may help Turkey move on Sweden NATO bidCyprus says a joint operation with Mossad has foiled a suspected Iranian plot to kill Israelis

Last week European leaders focused on EU enlargement, from the Western Balkans to Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia. While the EU wants closer ties with these countries, it has also made it clear that it expects reforms, particularly when it comes to issues related to the rule of law and justice. Dimitar Bechev, a research fellow at Carnegie Europe, where he focuses on Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe and a lecturer at Oxford’s School of Global and Area Studies, joins Thanos Davelis to look at these latest developments, and break down why he believes there are no quick fixes for EU enlargement.Read Dimitar Bechev’s latest here: There Are No Quick Fixes for EU EnlargementYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:EU wants closer ties to Western Balkans but expects reformGreece passes 2024 budget forecasting higher growthGreek parliament passes government's 2024 budgetUS top diplomat Blinken ups pressure on Turkey to secure Sweden’s NATO bidTurkey calls on U.S. to use influence to halt Israeli attacks on Gaza -Turkish source

As EU leaders meet in Brussels this week, their focus is largely on Ukraine and its ties to the EU. In the buildup to the summit, however, the Western Balkans also caught their attention. This includes the case of Albania and the imprisoned mayor-elect of Himare Fredi Beleri, which has not only caused a rift in Greek-Albanian relations, but also between Athens and Berlin this week. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest analysis.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Athens sends new message to TiranaBerlin backs Albania’s EU bid despite Athens’ opposition over jailed mayorAlbania needs to boost rights of minorities, EU GAC saysEU leaders approve Ukraine accession talks, bypassing OrbánCyprus calls for EU rethink on Syria migration as refugee numbers rise

All top-flight soccer matches in Greece will be played without fans in the stadiums for the next two months, as the focus in Greece once again turns to cracking down on supporter violence following a series of violent incidents at matches. Nikos Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author, joins Thanos Davelis to explore the issue of fan violence in Greece, and look at the government’s latest efforts to crack down on it.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greek football goes behind closed doors for two monthsIn latest crackdown on violence, Greece bans fans at all top-flight matches for two monthsGreece bans all football fans from Super League games following wave of 'extreme violence'Berlin backs Albania’s EU bid despite Athens’ opposition over jailed mayorAthens sends new message to TiranaGreece going green

One of the key figures that captured the hardship of the decade-long economic crisis in Greece was the unemployment rate, which peaked at 28 percent in the summer of 2013. Today, the latest statistics show that Greece’s unemployment rate has fallen below 10 percent for the first time since the onset of the crisis. Yiannis Mouzakis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, a political and economic analysis site that focuses on Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to break down how Greece brought down its unemployment rate, and how it can keep this momentum going. Read Yiannis Mouzakis latest analysis here: How Greece reduced its unemployment rate to less than 10 pctYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:US hits Turkish and Chinese companies over Russia tradeIsrael says it helped foil Iranian-ordered attack on Israelis in Cyprus

Last week we heard Turkish President Erdogan, who once declared that Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis “no longer exists” for him, now call him his “friend Kyriakos”. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to break down whether this “transformation” on the part of Turkey’s leader is genuine, and explain why it’s important that the Greek public understand how the US factored into this transformation.Read Endy Zemenides’ latest in Kathimerini: A genuine transformation?You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Beleri oath request gets rejectedAlbanian PM defiant over Beleri issueIn latest crackdown on violence, Greece bans fans at all top-flight matches for two monthsGovernment unveils measures against sports fan violence