The Greek Current

Moody’s recently upgraded Greece to investment grade, becoming the last major ratings agency to do so since Greece emerged from its financial crisis in the 2010s. The Greek government welcomed the news, with former Finance Minister Kostis Hatzidakis saying the upgrade marks the end of “a major cycle” for Greece, while Prime Minister Mitsotakis reiterated that Greece is “fully committed to reforms that attract investment, create jobs, and drive sustainable growth.” 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 what this decision means for Greece’s economy.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Moody’s upgrades Greece to investment grade on strong fiscal recovery and stabilityMoody's upgrading Greece to investment grade puts an end to painful 15-year cycleEU leaders vow to continue backing Ukraine, but make no concrete pledge‘As real as it can get’: EU to loan €150bn for European defence from invasionGreece extends by a year visas for Turkish nationals to visit islands

On Wednesday Turkish authorities detained Ekrem Imamoglu, the popular mayor of Istanbul and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s strongest political rival, a move that follows a wider crackdown on opposition figures over the past months. Imamoglu, who was preparing to assume the presidency of the CHP, the main opposition party, has said he will not back down. Henri Barkey, an adjunct senior fellow for Middle East studies at the Council on Foreign Relations and the Cohen chair in international relations at Lehigh University, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Imamoglu’s arrest, a move many see as bringing Turkey closer to endless Erdogan rule.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Istanbul mayor arrested days before likely presidential nominationErdogan rival arrested days before becoming presidential candidateTurkey moves closer to endless Erdogan rule as biggest rival detainedTurkish Markets Sink Most in World as Erdogan Deepens PurgeAthens moving ahead with power linkGuterres announces new round of Cyprus talks in JulyProgress by avoiding setbacks as Geneva talks keep Cyprus dialogue alive

For months Turkey’s President Erdogan has avoided wading into the latest peace process with Turkey’s Kurds and the PKK. Last week he broke his silence, saying he was prepared to meet with members of the country’s pro-Kurdish DEM Party who have played a key role in talks with Abdullah Ocalan. Amberin Zaman, Al-Monitor’s chief correspondent based in Paris and covering major stories on Turkey, the Middle East and North Africa, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what Erdogan's willingness to engage with Kurdish leaders means for this process.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkey’s Erdogan says he's ready to meet with Kurds brokering peace with PKKTurkey's Erdogan discusses Russia-Ukraine war, Syria in first official call with TrumpErdoğan’s top rival detained, faces block to presidential candidacyTurkey detains Erdogan's main rival on array of chargesJake Sullivan: ‘We worked behind the scenes’

Last week on Thursday the foreign ministers of Greece, Cyprus and Israel met in Athens, a meeting that put their trilateral relationship back in the spotlight. This meeting also came as the region deals with important questions that range from the future of a post-Assad Syria to Washington’s commitment to European security. Dr. Gallia Lindenstrauss, a senior fellow at Israel's National Institute of Security Studies, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the challenges and opportunities for the trilateral partnership between Greece, Cyprus, and Israel in a shifting geopolitical environment.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Backing for Greece-Cyprus power linkAthens weighing its strategic optionsTurkey's Erdogan seeks meeting with Trump, Bloomberg News saysTurkey's Erdogan discusses Russia-Ukraine war, Syria in first official call with TrumpMitsotakis pledges tax cuts and increased investments during Finance Ministry visit

Late last week Prime Minister Mitsotakis announced his broadest cabinet reshuffle yet in the wake of national protests over the handling of the Tempe train crash two years ago. As Mitsotakis looks to rebuild trust with voters, his cabinet is also becoming younger. The Prime Minister promoted several ministers in their 40s, emphasizing the need for younger leaders who can energize governance while delivering policy results. Niko Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at Greece’s new cabinet, breaking down the message it sends to Greek voters.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greek PM tweaks cabinet after train crash protestsGreek Premier Reshuffles Cabinet After Train Crash ProtestsYouth takes lead in new government lineupMoody’s upgrades Greece to investment grade on strong fiscal recovery and stabilityMoody’s upgrade significant for the Greek economy, says gov’t spoxCyprus about to join US Visa Waiver

The past few months have rocked the Transatlantic relationship, as European leaders try to come to terms with a growing rift between Europe and the US that ranges from Ukraine to questions about America’s overall commitment to European defense and security. As the gap between Europe and America widens, this is also raising key questions in Greece, a key US ally and member of the EU. Ian Lesser, the vice president and Brussels chief of the German Marshall Fund of the United States, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what’s at stake for Europe, and look at how Greece can navigate this new reality, balancing its ties with the US and its European partners.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:US or EU? Does Greece need to choose?Trump threatens tariffs on European wine and spirits in escalating trade warBacking for Greece-Cyprus power link

A deal signed earlier this week by Syria’s interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, and the commander in chief of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, Mazlum Kobane, is viewed by many as a turning point for Syria’s Kurds. It also comes amid escalating violence across Syria which has cast serious doubts over al-Sharaa’s ability to earn the trust of his people and govern. Steven Cook, the Eni Enrico Mattei senior fellow for Middle East and Africa studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis to explore whether this deal is really a game changer for Syria and Syria’s Kurds, and break down the roles of outside forces - particularly the US and Turkey - in this story.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Syrian Kurds celebrate deal with Damascus as coastal residents remain wary after violenceSyria’s Kurds win big as Sharaa shakes hands with Kobane to save his own skinKonstantinos Tasoulas to be sworn in as president ThursdayPM eyes major cabinet shake-upThe EU wants to increase deportations and supports ‘return hubs’ in third countriesEurope cracks down on migration. The far right is cheering.

Almost two years into his second term, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is now set to reboot his government, with announcements of a cabinet reshuffle expected later this week or early next week. The move comes after a string of national protests over the Tempe rail crash, and amid an uncertain geopolitical environment that is raising a number of questions across Europe. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder and editor of the economic and political analysis site Macropolis, joins Thanos Davelis to look into the challenges and opportunities for Prime Minister Mitsotakis as he looks to shake up his team.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:PM ponders reshuffle as PASOK mulls inability to make gainsRadical reshuffle or mere recycling?After the Tempe clashes, what?Kurdish-led SDF agrees to integrate with Syrian government forcesEU to impose counter tariffs on $28 billion of US goodsEU wields ‘sledgehammer’ against Trump tariffs

For many, the economic crisis that gripped Greece in the previous decade is over. However, its legacy is still there, and it goes well beyond the country’s economy. One such legacy is Greece’s birthrate, which was already declining, but the crisis accelerated its fall. As Greece faces a declining population, it also needs to ensure economic growth, and the question many are asking, including our guest today, is whether Greece can thrive with a shrinking population. John Psaropoulos joins Thanos Davelis as we look into Greece’s demographic challenge, one that Prime Minister Mitsotakis has called “existential”. John Psaropoulos is an independent journalist and Al Jazeera's correspondent in southeast Europe. He publishes Hellenica, a weekly deep dive into Greek current affairs and history. You can find it on Substack.com.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Can Greece thrive with a shrinking population?Mitsotakis to unveil 12-year, €28 billion defense armament programTrump highlights Greece-Cyprus role in strategic trade corridor

Late last week a bipartisan group of lawmakers in the House of Representatives introduced a piece of legislation that would redesignate Turkey as a Near Eastern country at the State Department, rather than a European country. The legislation followed a hearing in the House on Turkey, where serious concerns about Turkey’s role as a US and NATO ally were expressed. Endy Zemenides, HALC’s Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why this legislation on Turkey matters, especially given Ankara’s record that shows it is increasingly at odds with Western security interests.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Bipartisan legislation seeks to rein in Erdogan's Turkey over ties to US foesBridging the Gap: Turkey Between East and WestRubio says Syria must hold accountable 'perpetrators of massacres' Government seeks fresh start as social pressure mountsHigher European defense budgets a first step, production needed, NATO’s Rutte saysSectarian Killings Along Syria’s Coast Spiral Into Crisis for New GovernmentSyria’s Interim President Calls for Unity Amid Fresh Fighting

Turkey’s Erdogan has once again played up his country’s importance on the world stage - especially when it comes to defense issues - telling Europeans that their security is “unthinkable without Turkey.” These comments come despite Ankara’s well documented and aggressive moves in the region, from the Aegean and the Eastern Mediterranean to the Caucasus. Michael Rubin, the director of policy analysis at the Middle East Forum and a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss what Europe and countries in the region like Greece can do to address the challenge Turkey poses today.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece Must Match Turkey’s AggressivenessTurkey’s growing defense industry deepening ties with European powersItalian research vessel departs Crete amid energy project uncertaintyGeopolitics freeze payments for Greece-Cyprus linkupTurkish Cypriot minister says UN meeting will lead nowhere

Despite the Trump administration’s 90-day freeze on foreign aid, the State Department announced it was unfreezing $95 million in military assistance to Lebanon. The move is seen as a vote of confidence from the US in the new political order emerging in Lebanon, and in its efforts to continue to degrade Hezbollah. Steven Howard, the Director of Policy and Outreach at the American Task Force on Lebanon (ATFL), and Sean Mathews, a journalist for the Middle East Eye covering the Middle East, North Africa and the Balkans, join Thanos Davelis to break down why these funds matter for Lebanon, which is looking to rebuild after years of crises, and for the region.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:US green lights $95 million in aid for Lebanon’s armyTrump administration approves $95m in aid to Lebanon's militaryUS secretary of state hails Nicosia’s strategic roleEU leaders holding emergency meeting in Brussels on defense, UkraineEmergency EU summit seeks to bolster defence to counter US pivot from alliance

Last week, a fake news report claiming the US was going to ditch Alexandroupoli put the northern Greek port city in the spotlight. This report even reached the Oval Office, where President Trump quickly shut down the story. In the wake of the story, Kathimerini recently took a deep dive into the numbers, looking at how Alexandroupoli has become an essential hub for both commercial and military operations. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to explore the important role Alexandroupoli is playing in the region.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Vital role of Greek port uncontestedEU chief unveils €800bn plan to ‘rearm’ EuropeEU pushes emergency plan to send €150B in defense loans to governmentsUN sends official invitation for enlarged meeting on the Cyprus issue on March 17,18

Germany’s recent election paved the way for the leader of the opposition conservative Christian Democrats, Friedrich Merz, to take over as chancellor once coalition talks wrap up. The election is also raising broader questions about German and European politics, with the far-right AfD making big gains, while the question remains whether Merz is up to the challenge given the new geopolitical landscape taking shape. Tom Nuttall, The Economist’s chief Germany correspondent and head of the Berlin bureau, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Germany’s recent election, and break down why it matters for Europe. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Merz wins a messy election then calls for independence from AmericaAsylum cases in Europe fell 11% last year. Here's a look at the numbersCyprus, US strengthen military alliance with special operations drill

Last week Abdullah Ocalan, the imprisoned leader of the PKK, called on the movement to lay down its arms and dissolve. Ocalan’s historic announcement has many hoping that it will bring an end to nearly 4 decades of conflict between Ankara and the country’s Kurds. On Friday, Thanos Davelis spoke to Giran Ozcan, the Executive Director of the Kurdish Peace Institute and a former representative of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) in the US, to break down this historic call from Ocalan, and look at what we should keep an eye on as this process unfolds. Since our discussion, the PKK has declared a ceasefire with Turkey.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:End of an era? PKK leader Ocalan orders militants to end war with Turkey, 'dissolve'Kurdish group PKK declares ceasefire with TurkeyRubio reaffirms US-Greek strategic importance in meeting with GerapetritisMitsotakis says government will work to make trains safePASOK push for no-confidence vote against government

On Wednesday President Trump said the EU was formed to “screw the United States,” then announced he would hit the EU with 25% tariffs. This has prompted a reaction from European officials and capitals, who point out that the EU has had the opposite effect, fostering closer business ties and trade links with the US. Maria Demertzis, the chief economist for Europe at the Conference Board in Brussels, joins Thanos Davelis to look into the European reaction to these statements, and break down what this could mean for the economies of the US and EU, including Greece.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Trump says 25% tariffs on EU will be announced soonTrump’s threatened 25% tariffs on EU imports could trigger ‘economic turmoil’EU to Trump on tariffs: Go ahead, make our day.Hundreds of thousands protest across Greece over deadly train crashAs anger mounts over rail disaster in Greece, thousands join protestsJailed Kurdish leader issues call to lay down armsEnd of an era? PKK leader Ocalan orders militants to end war with Turkey, ‘dissolve’

President Donald Trump’s return to office has been described as an “electroshock” in Europe, with leading politicians like Germany’s Friedrich Merz openly pledging “independence from the US.” Aside from his antagonistic approach toward Europe - from security to tariffs - Trump is also sending a clear signal that he wants to leave European affairs to Europeans while the US pivots toward China. Andrew Novo, a professor of strategic studies at the National Defense University in Washington, DC, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what’s at stake for Europe as the US turns its attention elsewhere, and how countries like Greece and Cyprus can react to this new reality.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:US to Europe — Get Used to a New WorldWe need to start thinking transactionallyTrump says 25% tariffs on EU will be announced soonIndifference or Hostility? Trump’s View of European Allies Raises AlarmJailed Kurdish militant leader's message to be shared on ThursdayPKK leader Ocalan set to make historic peace call between Turkey and the Kurds

Greece is bracing for demonstrations that will bring the country to a halt this Friday, as it marks the two-year anniversary of the Tempe rail crash - the country’s worst ever rail disaster in which 57 people died. The public outcry is testing the political system, from the government to the opposition, with Prime Minister Mitsotakis acknowledging public demands for truth and justice while condemning efforts to politicize the tragedy. Wolfango Piccoli, the co-founder of risk analysis company Teneo, joins Thanos Davelis to look into the broader ramifications of Tempe for Greece’s political system, while exploring how the current uncertainty in Europe and the US factor into the challenges facing Greece.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Public outcry tests the political systemMitsotakis: Justice, not political gamesThe week that will bring the country to a haltGerapetritis to meet Rubio for key talksGreek destination is increasingly popular in Australia, US

Monday, February 24, marked three years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. As President Trump looks to bring a swift end to the war, his and his officials’ statements on Ukraine, President Zelensky, and European security, along with the decision to bypass allies and engage in talks with Russia’s Putin, have left many in the West with a deep sense of unease. Thomas Graham, a distinguished fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and author of the book Getting Russia Right, joins Thanos Davelis to look into what’s at stake three years into this war, and what to make of President Trump’s moves on Ukraine.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:The Art of a Ukraine DealMedia Briefing: Trump, Russia, and the Future of UkraineCountdown begins for contested sea surveysTrump dismisses reports that US is shutting down military base in Greece

While Turkey may have expected that a second Trump term would mean improved ties with the White House, the first month of the Trump administration has shown us that Washington still views Turkey as an unreliable partner. In fact, Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s recent engagements with the Middle East point to a regional strategy that seems to marginalize Ankara. Sinan Ciddi, a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and an expert on Turkish politics, joins Thanos Davelis to look into whether Erdogan’s Turkey is finding itself on the outside of the Trump administration’s regional strategy.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkey Marginalized? How Trump’s Middle East Strategy is Rewriting AlliancesGermany's conservatives celebrate, but far right enjoy record resultMerz wins a messy election then calls for independence from AmericaGov’t braces for Tempe anniversary protestsGov’t braces for Tempe anniversary protests

Earlier this week Cypriot President Christodoulides was in Egypt where the two countries signed two energy agreements that he described as “pivotal”. The deals would enable the export of gas from Cyprus’s offshore fields to Egypt for liquefaction and re-export to Europe, and, as President Christodoulides posted on X, “are game changers for the region and beyond”. Dr. Theodoros Tsakiris, a professor of geopolitics and energy policy at the University of Nicosia in Cyprus, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why these two deals are important for Cyprus, Egypt, and the region.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Egypt, Cyprus sign gas export deals, boosting Eastern Mediterranean energy cooperationPM calls on EU to ‘move from words to action’ in defenseErdogan's fight with Turkish business stirs economic concern

Earlier this week we saw Turkish police detain 282 people accused of ties to the PKK. This included journalists, politicians, and academics. These arrests are taking place as Ankara continues to remove elected pro-Kurdish mayors from their posts. At the same time, they coincide with reports that a deal could be at hand over the country’s Kurdish question. Piotr Zalewski, The Economist's Turkey correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into this new crackdown in Turkey and its broader implications. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:A new crackdown is gathering strength in TurkeyTurkey detains 282 suspects in a dayslong operation against Kurdish insurgentsMeeting Again in Paris, European Leaders Try to Recalibrate After Trump Sides With RussiaMacron holds new emergency talks on UkraineWest’s ‘crisis’ coalition grows as Trump rails against ZelenskyyAthens resists as investors swoop on the city’s ‘neighbourhood of the gods’

It’s safe to say that Steve Bannon, a one-time close adviser to Donald Trump and the voice of the MAGA movement, has a unique role in both the Republican camp and in driving the conversation in Washington, DC in the Trump 2.0 era. Kathimerini’s Iliana Magra, who met with Steve Bannon last week in Washington, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss her in-depth interview with Bannon, which touched on his views on Greece, Turkey and the region, and the broader outlook for the Trump 2.0 era and the MAGA movement.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Steve Bannon: Greece would be finished in 10 years if Trump hadn’t returned to powerTurkey detains nearly 300 people in raids on PKK suspects, including opposition figuresTurkey detains 282 suspects in a dayslong operation against Kurdish insurgents'We are back' Greek shipyards say after decades of pain

The past week has thrown the Transatlantic relationship into turmoil, with the shocks for Europe coming one after the other. First Defense Secretary Hegseth said the US is no longer the “primary guarantor” of European security. This was followed up by President Trump’s phone call with Russia’s Vladimir Putin that seemed to sideline Ukraine and Europe. Then at the Munich Security Conference, Vice President J.D. Vance shocked attendees with a speech critiquing European democracy and effectively calling on Europeans to end the isolation of far-right parties. Steven Erlanger, the chief diplomatic correspondent for The New York Times covering Europe, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest analysis.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Donald Trump’s assault on EuropeVance Tells Europeans to Stop Shunning Parties Deemed ExtremeAfter Munich, How Will Europe Handle Trump?European Leaders Meet in Paris as U.S. Pushes Ahead With Ukraine PlanEgypt, Cyprus sign gas export deals, boosting Eastern Mediterranean energy cooperationTop Greek scientist says the Santorini earthquake outlook remains uncertain

Greece’s two-year term as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council began at the outset of 2025. Since then, Greece has been at the heart of key discussions and initiatives - from playing a role in renewing the mandate of the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus to the Security Council adopting its resolution on maritime security in the Red Sea. Lena Argiri, the DC correspondent for ERT - the Greek Public Broadcasting Company - and Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down Greece’s priorities on the Security Council, and explain what this means for the country’s global diplomatic standing.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece begins two-year term at UN Security CouncilUN Security Council adopts Red Sea resolution drafted by Greece, USCyprus and Chevron-led group agree on updated plan for offshore fieldCyprus and Egypt to sign natural gas commercialization agreementsGreek military eyes technological leap

World leaders met in Paris earlier this week for the AI Action Summit, a global summit on artificial intelligence. While France and the EU pledged to mobilize hundreds of billions of dollars in investments in the AI sector, Greece’s Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who was also in Paris, put a spotlight on how Greece is helping to shape European developments in this critical sector. Yannis Mastrogeorgiou, the Special Secretary of Foresight in the Presidency of the Greek Government and the Coordinator of the National Advisory Committee on Artificial Intelligence, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Greece’s broader AI strategy. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece is helping to shape developments in AI, Mitsotakis saysEU to mobilise €200 billion for AI investmentAthens and Nicosia set Syria termsAthens offers support to rebuild SyriaNATO tests new deployment model without US ahead of Ukraine war anniversary

This past weekend voters in Kosovo went to the polls in an election that many saw as critical for the future of its relations with the US and the EU, but also when it comes to stalled talks with Serbia to normalize ties. Prime Minister Albin Kurti, who has pushed hardline policies vis-a-vis Kosovo’s Serbs, won the general election, but his party fell short of a majority and will need to find a coalition partner to remain in power. Expert Charles Kupchan joins Thanos Davelis to break down why these elections matter not just for Kosovo, but for the Western Balkans and the broader region.Charles Kupchan is a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) and professor of international affairs at Georgetown University in the Walsh School of Foreign Service and Department of Government. He previously served as special assistant to the president and senior director for European affairs on the staff of the National Security Council in the Obama administration.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Why Kosovo's Election Matters For The Region And The WorldKosovo PM Albin Kurti wins election amid tensions with Brussels and WashingtonSerbia: Students mark 100 days since deadly canopy collapseTrump Says Call With Putin Is Beginning of Ukraine Peace NegotiationsTrump and Putin stun Europe with peace plan for Ukraine President-elect Tasoulas calls for national unity and social solidarity

For the past decade, Cyprus, the EU’s easternmost state and the closest to the Middle East, has stood as one of the EU’s frontline states when it comes to the migration crisis. The fall of the Assad regime in Syria and the conflicts in Lebanon and Gaza are now raising new questions about migration and regional security. Nicholas Ioannides, the Deputy Minister of Migration and International Protection of Cyprus, joins Thanos Davelis to break down these shifting dynamics on migration and on the security front, and explore how cooperation with partners in the region, the EU, and the US, is going to be critical in tackling these challenges.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Hundreds of Syrians drop asylum bids in Cyprus since Assad’s fall, minister saysMore than 1,000 Syrians have withdrawn asylum applications in Cyprus, another 500 have returned homePoland will not implement Migration Pact, Donald Tusk tells Ursula von der LeyenUS leadership key to Middle East stability, experts say at 6th Southeast Europe ForumDendias highlights Greece’s strategic role in US foreign policyTurkish Navy continues to shadow Greek surveys north of Crete

We’re coming to you from the sidelines of the 6th Delphi Forum in Washington DC, a two-day conference organized by HALC, Kathimerini’s English Edition, and the Delphi Economic Forum today, where the spotlight is on Greece, Cyprus, Southeast Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean. This is a region at the crossroads of three continents and at the heart of exciting developments. Georgia Logothetis, HALC’s Managing Director, joins Thanos Davelis as we bring you the latest from DC. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Discussing regional developments in WashingtonGreece presses France over missile sale to TurkeyCypriot president- Turkish Cypriot leader say they’re ready for UN-led meeting to restart peace talks

A few months after Russia’s President Putin invaded Ukraine, Russia and Turkey used a nuclear project to sidestep US sanctions. In short, Moscow slipped billions of dollars through US banks into Turkey, from which the money could bankroll Russian state initiatives. Now US prosecutors are eyeing $2 billion worth of Russian funds that are stuck at JP Morgan. Costas Paris, a senior reporter for The Wall Street Journal who wrote an exclusive on this story, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this sanctions evasion scheme involving Moscow and Ankara, and break down what questions this raises for Washington.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Moscow Has $2 Billion Stuck at JPMorgan. The U.S. Isn’t Sure What to Do With It.Schools on 4 Greek islands will stay shut next week as earthquakes continueKosovo heads to election clouded by tensions with Serbia

A story that's been in and out of the headlines in Greece lately has to do with France and the potential sale of Meteor missiles to Turkey. While the story is putting Greece’s relations with France and other EU partners in the spotlight, it also raises questions about European arms sales to countries like Turkey. This debate comes amid calls for Europe to spend much more on its own defence, something Prime Minister Mitsotakis weighed in on with a recent Financial Times op-ed. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis with the backstory on this potential arms sale to Ankara, while looking into the broader debate on European defense. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Paris seeks to allay Greek concerns on missile sale to TurkeyEurope must spend more on its own defencePM mulling timing and scope of cabinet reshuffleTurkey's growing power pollution a sign of things to come

A provisional mining deal last year between Turkey and Niger, one of the world’s biggest uranium producers, has analysts asking if Turkey is taking quiet yet deliberate steps toward producing enriched uranium fuel, a step that could one day lead to nuclear weapons. Andrea Stricker, the deputy director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies’ (FDD) Nonproliferation and Biodefense Program and an FDD research fellow, joins Thanos Davelis to break down President Erdogan’s nuclear ambitions and the risk of a nuclear Turkey.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:FAQ: Is Turkey the Next Nuclear Proliferant State?Turkey Eyes Niger Mining Projects Amid Competition for UraniumTurkish corvette off Crete signals Ankara’s intentHundreds of Syrians drop asylum bids in Cyprus since Assad’s fall, minister says

According to recent reports - notably in the Financial Times - the EU is debating a return to Russian gas as part of a Ukraine peace deal, with officials from Germany and Hungary endorsing the idea. This discussion is unfolding as President Trump is threatening tariffs against the EU if it doesn’t buy more American LNG, and as Europe grapples with the broader question of whether it needs to prepare for a post-America Europe. 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, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into this energy debate and the future of the US-Europe relationship.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:EU debates return to Russian gas as part of Ukraine peace dealTrump Needs a Plan to Get Europeans to Step Up on DefenseSyria's interim leader holds talks with key ally Turkey on his second international tripSantorini mass exodus ongoing as tremors persist

Last week President Christodoulides delivered his annual “State of the Union” address, highlighting his vision for Cyprus in 2025. The President laid out an ambitious reform agenda that will not only modernize Cyprus, but improve the brand of Cyprus both on the international stage and in the eyes of its own citizens. Irene Piki, the Deputy Minister to the President of the Republic of Cyprus, joins Thanos Davelis to break down the President’s top priorities and his vision to improve the daily lives of people in a continuously changing Cyprus. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Christodoulides unveils ambitious plans in State of the Union addressCyprus in US Visa Waiver Program soonBrussels vows ‘firm’ response to threatened Trump tariffs as EU braces for trade warOpposition parties divided on PM no-confidence motion over Tempe train crash Poll: 8 in 10 Greeks disapprove of government’s handling of Tempe case

Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democrat and President Trump’s choice to serve as the Director of National Intelligence, just went through a tense Senate confirmation hearing, facing bipartisan skepticism about her suitability for the role. Georgia Logothetis, HALC’s Managing Director, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Gabbard’s political transformation, her past criticism of Turkey’s President Erdogan and where she stands on Hellenic issues, and the broader takeaways from Gabbard’s hearing and the hearings of other key nominees for Cabinet positions.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Gabbard’s Hearing Turns Tense Over Snowden QuestionsWhat Trump’s Nominees RevealedTulsi Gabbard’s road to DamascusGabbard faces bipartisan doubt in spy job hearing; Patel gets GOP embrace as FBI pickChristodoulides unveils ambitious plans in State of the Union addressGreece, Cyprus, others urge EU Commission to protect elections in Europe from foreign interference

Top lawmakers from the pro-Kurdish People’s Equality and Democracy Party have now met with Abdullah Ocalan, the jailed leader of the PKK, on a few occasions, generating some buzz around the potential for a deal that could bring the decades-long conflict between the Turkish state and the Kurds to an end. This is taking place amid seismic geopolitical shifts in the region, especially in Syria. Henri Barkey, an adjunct senior fellow for Middle East studies at the Council on Foreign Relations and the Cohen chair in international relations at Lehigh University, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into the latest efforts to bring an end to Turkey’s 40-year Kurdish conflict.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkey, Kurds move toward peace deal as lawmakers meet with PKK leader OcalanWhat to know about the latest effort to bring an end to Turkey’s 40-year Kurdish conflictGreece strongly objects to sale of Meteor missile to TurkeyMitsotakis denies cover-up accusations in Tempe railway disaster

President Trump promised to shake up how Washington does business, and he has wasted no time since his inauguration. From executive orders to a call with Denmark’s leader over Greenland, Trump seems to be making good on his pledge to disrupt American domestic and foreign policy. What will this mean for the US and its allies, particularly in Europe? Expert James Lindsay joins Thanos Davelis to look into President Trump’s disruptive foreign policy agenda and how it could impact America’s friends and allies.James M. Lindsay is the Mary and David Boies distinguished senior fellow in U.S. foreign policy and director of Fellowship Affairs at the Council on Foreign Relations, the host of the weekly podcast The President’s Inbox. His most recent book, co-authored with Ivo H. Daalder, is The Empty Throne: America’s Abdication of Global Leadership.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Donald Trump’s Disruptive First DaysU.S. Foreign Policy on the Eve of DisruptionEurope’s leaders plot to stop Trump from taking Greenland Albania amends Greek identity legislationMore positive signs in tourism

As President Trump assumed office repeating his campaign slogan of “drill, baby, drill”, Greece announced that US energy giant Chevron is interested in exploring for oil and gas in Greek waters. The move comes as President Trump has also called on Europe to buy more US energy. John Psaropoulos joins Thanos Davelis to look into this latest development on the energy front, its timing and the message it signals to Washington, and why it serves as a reminder about Greece’s important role in the regional - and global - energy market.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece aligns with Trump on gas explorationEU prolongs its Russia sanctions for 6 months after Hungary lifts its objectionsTurkey Aims for $6 Billion Weapons Deal With Saudi Arabia

Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias just became the first member of Greece’s government to visit the US since President Trump’s inauguration with a trip that took him beyond the Beltway to cities like Chicago. Beyond engaging with the diaspora, Dendias’ trip put Greece in the spotlight for a wider American audience. Endy Zemenides, HALC’s Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why focusing on the US beyond Washington, DC matters, and discuss his latest piece in Kathimerini that asks whether Hellenes need to stop searching for political messiahs in the United States, particularly the oval office.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Hellenism’s futile search for an American messiah: From Carter to TrumpDendias hails Greek-Jewish ties, highlights strategic alliances with Israel and USA Conversation with Greek Defense Minister Nikos DendiasArchbishop Anastasios of Albania diesThousands protest over deadly train crash in Greece

Recent findings from the Anti-Defamation League’s (ADL) Global 100 study reveal that while global antisemitism has surged across the world over the last decade, Greece is bucking this trend. In fact, it recorded the largest decrease in antisemitic attitudes globally, with a 19-point drop. Aykan Erdemir, the Senior Director for Global Research and Diplomatic Affairs at the ADL, joins Thanos Davelis to break down the key takeaways from the ADL’s study, looking at this global trend of rising antisemitism, and contrasting it to the progress Greece has made over the last decade.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece makes strides in global fight against antisemitism, study findsUS air force looks to upgrade Cyprus airbase as humanitarian staging post for the Middle EastIonian, Aegean marine parks plan pushed to mid-2025

Opening its doors in 2022, the Cyprus Center for Land, Open-seas, and Port Security, otherwise known as CYCLOPS, is now not only on the front line of US and European security, but is a critical piece of the puzzle when it comes to relations between Washington and Nicosia. Michael Rubin, the director of policy analysis at the Middle East Forum and a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the important role CYCLOPS and Cyprus are playing in the region, and to break down why this critical training center is the perfect partnership for the US in the Trump era. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Cyprus’ CYCLOPS Is the Perfect Partnership for the Trump AgeThe U.S. Won’t Defeat China if Ambassadors Fail UpwardsNovember a record-breaking month for Greek tourism Turkey, Kurds move toward peace deal as lawmakers meet with PKK leader Ocalan

As President Trump outlined his “America first” foreign policy vision in his inaugural address, other key players on the foreign policy chess board in Washington are also moving into place, from Secretary of State Marco Rubio taking over the State Department to new leaders in Congress. Laura Kelly, the foreign policy reporter for The Hill, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the view from Washington, DC and Capitol Hill as President Trump looks to begin implementing his foreign policy vision, and explore what to expect from these other players, including Congress.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Scores of career State Dept. diplomats resign before Trump’s inaugurationRubio unanimously confirmed as secretary of State, becoming Trump’s first Cabinet officialTrump signs executive order pausing foreign assistance for 3 monthsTrump's pick for U.N. ambassador is Elise Stefanik. Here's what to knowEurope must seek ‘mutually beneficial solutions’ post-Trump, Mitsotakis saysAs defence ties strengthen, US assesses Cyprus base

Prime Minister Mitsotakis announced his pick for President of Greece last week, selecting New Democracy veteran Kostas Tasoulas. The decision is not only indicative of the direction Mitsotakis is looking to move in 2025, but it also sets the stage for a new political battleground between New Democracy and PASOK. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, joins Thanos Davelis to help us read between the lines, breaking down what’s at stake for the government and PASOK, while looking at broader global trends - from potential tariffs to Ukraine - and how they could impact Greece.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Presidential vote creates new battleground as ND and PASOK renew hostilitiesAs political landscape stabilizes, PASOK fears it may have hit its ceilingPoll gives New Democracy 12-point leadChristodoulides, Tatar fail to reach deal on new crossing pointsChevron expresses interest in Greek energy exploration

Since the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, many have repeated the analysis that Turkey is “the winner” in Syria. Is this the case, however? Has Turkey really won anything yet? Developments on the ground indicate that this may not be the case. Steven Cook, the Eni Enrico Mattei senior fellow for Middle East and Africa studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why it might still be too early to celebrate an Erdogan win in Syria.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkey Hasn’t Won Anything Yet in SyriaUS officials to head to Cyprus to discuss defense upgrades, president says‘Serving as US Ambassador to Greece has been the honor of a lifetime,’ Tsunis says

In a move heralded as historic, President Joe Biden issued a presidential determination this week officially including Cyprus in three critical US defense programs. Cyprus hailed the decision allowing military sales, including arms, to the island as a milestone affirming the country’s role as a pillar of stability in the Eastern Mediterranean. Lena Argiri, the DC correspondent for ERT - the Greek Public Broadcasting Company - and Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to look at this major development in US-Cyprus ties that paves the way for the incoming Trump administration to take this relationship to new heights.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Cyprus included in three critical US defense programsGreece has tapped 18 bln euros from EU’s Recovery FundPM marks shift, nominates House speaker as next president

As we approach inauguration day, one of President-elect Donald Trump’s closest allies, Elon Musk, has been using his social media platform X to openly support political parties like the far-right AfD in Germany ahead of the country’s election, or has called for an end to Sir Keir Starmer’s Labour government in the UK. His posts are raising questions among key US allies, with many asking whether Musk is speaking for Trump. Ed Luce, the US national editor and columnist at the Financial Times, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Musk’s posts and the wider ramifications for America’s allies in Europe.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Musk’s war on America’s allies A New Age of American Interference in EuropeCyprus included in three critical US defense programsGreece makes strides in global fight against antisemitism, study finds

Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ visit to Saudi Arabia this week has put a spotlight on Greece’s strategy in the Middle East, coming about a week after a trilateral summit in Cairo with Egypt’s President Sisi and Cyprus’ President Christodoulides, and a month after a visit to Lebanon. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Greece’s engagement with the broader Middle East, from key players like Saudi Arabia and Egypt, to countries like Lebanon that are looking to rebuild.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Athens, Riyadh strengthen strategic tiesGreece, Egypt and Cyprus align on policyGreek interest in Middle East deepeningTurkey’s Bahceli rehashes claims about Greece’s Dodecanese islandsForeign Ministry: ‘Dodecanese islands status governed by the 1947 Paris Peace Treaty’Mitsotakis calls on European Commission to move faster to reduce energy prices

All eyes are on Prime Minister Mitsotakis as Greeks wait to hear who he plans to nominate as Greece’s next president. While the position is a largely ceremonial one, who is selected will send a message across the political spectrum, and will likely set the tone for the remainder of Mitsotakis’ term as he will have to decide whether to appease his party’s base or pick a candidate with a broader appeal. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this story, breaking down the dilemma facing Mitsotakis and the message it sends about Greek politics. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:All eyes on Greece’s presidential nominationCyprus could join Schengen this year, president saysEU bans ‘Turkaegean’ slogan following Greece’s appeal

As we approach the 51st dark anniversary of Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus this year, there is a renewed push to locate and identify the remains of 951 missing Greek and Turkish Cypriots. To this day, the search continues for those lost during periods of inter-communal violence or - the large part - during Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus in 1974. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition and Politico’s Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this issue, which remains an open wound for all Cypriots.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:‘Oblivion cannot always be the choice’Greece’s tourism hits record highs, offering optimism for 2025Turkey’s Kurdish leaders meet jailed politician as the two sides inch toward peace

Lebanon has brought an end to a two year power vacuum with the election of Joseph Aoun, the country's army chief, as president. His candidacy was backed by several key players, including the US, France and Saudi Arabia. Together with the collapse of Assad in Syria and a weakened Hezbollah, there are many who hope this election could serve as the necessary spark to rebuild the war-torn Eastern Mediterranean country. Sean Mathews, a journalist for the Middle East Eye covering the Middle East, North Africa and the Balkans, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why this election is so important, and what challenges lie ahead for Lebanon and its new president. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Army chief elected Lebanon's president after years of deadlockIt’s time for Lebanon’s leaders to take responsibility for the country’s futureUS dangles Saudi Arabia's cash to push candidate for Lebanon's presidencyMeloni hails ‘excellent’ Italy-Greece relations, announces February conferenceTrump, Meloni and Greece’s movesKurdish-led SDF says civilians killed as Turkey strikes Syrian dam