The Greek Current

Over the past two years an area south of Greece’s Peloponnese had become a major location to circumvent sanctions against Russian oil exports. It looks like Greece has now found a way to disrupt these operations - taking place in international waters - after the Greek navy blocked off the area for naval exercises. A factor in this story is the fact that Greece has not extended its territorial waters in the area to 12 nautical miles, a move that Turkey says is a cause for war. Professor Kostas Ifantis joins Thanos Davelis to discuss how Greece is taking steps to block these oil transfers, examine the question of Greece’s territorial seas, and look ahead at the upcoming meeting between Prime Minister Mitsotakis and Turkish President Erdogan.Kostas Ifantis is a Professor of International Relations at the Department of International, European and Area Studies at Panteion University of Athens, and has previously served as Director for Research at the Policy Planning Center of the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Steps to block oil transfers off Greek coastNorth Macedonia holds presidential and parliamentary elections WedAthens wary of VMRO comebackFinance watchdog visited Turkey ahead of 'grey list' decision

Last fall Greece joined the Three Seas Initiative, which brings together 13 EU countries located between the Baltic, Black, Adriatic, and now the Aegean Seas. The Three Seas Initiative was initially founded with the economy in mind, to foster regional dialogue and boost investment, and with Greece’s addition, its diplomatic and economic pull now extends to the Mediterranean. Ian Brzezinski, who has been following this initiative since it was founded, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why the Three Seas Initiative, which now includes Greece, is so important for the region.Ian Brzezinski leads the Brzezinski Group, a strategic advisory services firm, and serves as a Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Europe Center and Brent Scowcroft Center on Strategy and Security.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:What is the Three Seas Initiative and why is it expanding?Greece becomes 13th member of Three Seas Initiative on EU’s eastern flankGreece can serve as entry point for energy to the north, PM saysTurkey formally opens another former Byzantine-era church as a mosqueUN envoy returning to Cyprus for talks

Anyone who has visited the United States or is familiar with shows like Seinfeld will have come across a diner, a uniquely American type of restaurant. Few may know, however, that from the 1960s onward Greek-Americans came to dominate the diner restaurant scene, especially in the Northeast and the Midwest. Professor Alexander Kitroeff, one of the leading historians of the Greek-American experience, joins Thanos Davelis to talk about the American diner, its strong links to Greek immigrants, and whether the phenomenon of the Greek-American diner has a future in today’s America.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greek Diners in America’s HeartlandAthens, Ankara finalizing details of PM’s Turkey visitTurkey halts trade with Israel over 'humanitarian tragedy' in Gaza

The Financial Times recently reported that Greece and some other EU countries have been under pressure to send more aid to Ukraine, specifically air defense systems. Prime Minister Mitsotakis has ruled this out, citing Greece’s defense needs. Constantinos Filis, the director of the Institute of Global Affairs and a professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to break down this story, which comes at a critical juncture in the war in Ukraine, and look at the different ways Athens has supported and continues to support Kyiv.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece and Spain under pressure to provide Ukraine with air defence systemsHaggling over Greek aid to UkraineConvicted leader of Greek far-right Golden Dawn party released on paroleEU funnels aid to Lebanon amid Syria migrant surge to Cyprus

This summer will mark 50 years since Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus, and for the last five decades tens of thousands of Turkish occupation troops have been present in the northern part of the island. 50 years later, the US still refuses to officially recognize Turkey’s illegal occupation as an occupation. Michael Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and director of policy analysis at the Middle East Forum, joins Thanos Davelis to argue that recognizing Turkey’s presence in Cyprus as an occupation will only strengthen America’s position in the region, especially at a time when Nicosia is stepping up and punching above its weight as an indispensable partner.Read Michael Rubin’s latest: Refusing to Call Cyprus Occupied Isn’t Sophisticated. It’s StupidIs Albania’s Edi Rama the New Erdogan?You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Pappas, Bilirakis, Titus, Malliotakis Introduce the Bipartisan End the Cyprus Embargo ActGreece boosts special firefighting units to cope with its growing heat risk

Politicians, scientists and organizations from all over the world were in Athens this April as Greece hosted the 9th International Our Ocean Conference. Greece, the US, and all stakeholders made some 450 commitments totalling billions of dollars for the protection of the oceans and seas, including two new marine parks in the Aegean and the Ionian seas. The State Department’s Deputy Assistant Secretary for Ocean, Fisheries and Polar Affairs Dr. Mahlet Mesfin joins Thanos Davelis to look back at the key takeaways from the Our Ocean conference in Athens, and explore how protecting the oceans is a space where the US and Greece can expand their already strong ties.Dr. Mahlet Mesfin serves as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Ocean, Fisheries and Polar Affairs in the Department of State’s Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs where she oversees the formulation and implementation of U.S. policy on a broad range of international issues concerning the ocean, the Arctic, the Antarctic, and marine conservation.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece to spend €780 mln to protect marine biodiversity, PM saysEnvironmental protection is blue, tooOur Ocean Conference in Athens, April 15-17, 2024USAID at Our Ocean Conference 2024Von der Leyen to unveil aid for Lebanon to stop refugee flows, says Cyprus‘Blue Homeland’ doctrine to be taught at Turkish schools

After originally leaking that a White House visit was in play in the lead up to municipal elections at the end of March, President Erdogan is now postponing his May meeting with President Biden in Washington, DC. No reason was cited, but, as some analysts note, the move will likely upend efforts to mend ties between the two NATO allies. Wolfango Piccoli, the co-founder of the risk analysis company Teneo, joins Thanos Davelis to look into why this visit was postponed and what message it sends about the US-Turkey relationship and Ankara’s broader ties with the West.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkey postpones Erdogan's White House visitOur neighborhood just got unpredictable againPM’s Ankara trip to go ahead as plannedGuilty verdicts decried as too lenientTurkey says it backs outgoing Dutch prime minister Rutte’s candidacy for NATO chief

Voters in North Macedonia went to the polls on Wednesday for the first round of presidential elections in a vote widely seen as a litmus test for upcoming parliamentary elections. There are some concerns the election outcome could affect North Macedonia’s relations with Greece and Bulgaria - given references to the Prespa Agreement and constitutional changes Sofia is calling for - and further complicate its EU accession process. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition and Politico’s Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to look at Wednesday’s election and its broader implications for the country’s relations with its neighbors and its EU aspirations.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:North Macedonia polls to test EU driveFirst round of North Macedonia’s presidential polls shows big shift towards center-right oppositionAmalthea corridor ‘awaiting Gaza pier’Greece rules out air defence systems to Ukraine, prime minister says

Claims that Turkish President Erdogan has canceled an upcoming meeting at the White House have been circulating in Turkish media. With neither Washington nor Ankara formally denying the rumors, it is raising more questions about whether they are true or not. In the meantime, it seems Ankara is once again putting up hurdles with regard to NATO, this time over the approval of former Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte as the new secretary-general. Amberin Zaman, Al-Monitor’s chief correspondent covering major stories on the Middle East and North Africa, including Turkey, joins Thanos Davelis to get to the bottom of these rumors around Erdogan’s White House visit.Read Amberin Zaman’s latest here: Has Turkey’s Erdogan axed his Biden meeting because of Israel?You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:French ask to borrow air defense systemPyatt: Greece can cover 80% of needs via RES

Today marks 109 years since the Armenian genocide began. With commemorations taking place across the world, there is a renewed fear that the lessons of “Never Again” have been forgotten following Azerbaijan’s attack on Nagorno Karabakh and the subsequent mass exodus of over 100,000 Armenians from the region in what has been described as ethnic cleansing. Aram Hamparian, the Executive Director of the Armenian National Committee of America, joins Thanos Davelis to talk about the very real threats facing Armenians in the Caucasus today, and to look at what steps the West - particularly the US - need to take to give meaning to the words “Never Again”. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Armenians fear new war with Azerbaijan despite talk of peaceArmenian victims group asks International Criminal Court to investigate genocide claimBipartisan, Bicameral Coalition of U.S. Legislators Call for American Leadership to Secure Justice for Artsakh and the Armenian GenocideGreek top court bars far-right Spartiates party from EU election raceGreece draws 3 bln euros from 30-year bond amid huge demand

Changes to Greece’s Golden Visa scheme are set to kick in at the end of the summer. This will see increases in the minimum amount needed to invest in order to secure a residence permit in an effort to tackle the country’s housing crisis. This move comes as golden visa programs are being phased out or shut down around Europe, and as housing has become a hot political issue. Nikos Roussanoglou, a journalist with 23 years of experience at Kathimerini covering the economy, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what these new changes will mean, and whether we are seeing the beginning of the end of the golden visa scheme.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Extra rules for Golden VisaGolden Visa Programs, Once a Boon, Lose Their LusterGreece tightens Golden Visa rulesGolden Visa demand growsRise of house prices continuesNorth Macedonia to elect president after campaign focused on EU membershipGreece plans early repayment of eurozone bailout loans this year

Investments in Greece have shot up over the past years, with the country outperforming its Eurozone partners when it comes to the pace with which it is attracting and increasing investments. Despite this positive picture, there are a number of myths around investments in Greece, especially when it comes to real estate and the Golden Visa scheme. Michael Arghyrou, the head of the Council of Economic Advisors for Greece’s Finance Ministry and a professor in Economics at the University of Piraeus, joins Thanos Davelis to bust some of these myths and look at how investments are transforming Greece’s economy. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Δώδεκα μύθοι και μία αλήθεια για τις επενδύσειςSun, Sea and Exports Give South Europe Reason to Feel SmugGreece will not compromise defense, spokesman says following FT reportGreece and Spain under pressure to provide Ukraine with air defence systemsIraq, Turkey to elevate security, economic ties after Erdogan visit

Since emerging from its international bailouts and a decade-long economic crisis, the Greek economy is now surging, outperforming its eurozone partners with its economy expected to grow nearly 3% this year. Despite this positive outlook, there are key challenges ahead, as some economies in the eurozone have slowed down, and many Greeks hurt by the crisis are still struggling. Nikos Vettas, the General Director of the Foundation for Economic and Industrial Research and Professor of Economics at the Athens University of Economics and Business, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this economic rebound and explore the challenges ahead.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greek economy surges after decade of painAs economy rebounds, Greece will wrap up bank sales this year, finance minister saysRapprochement with Turkey has reduced illegal migration flows, Mitsotakis saysHamas leader to visit Turkey for talks with ErdoganHamas Leader to Meet With Erdogan in Turkey

Following Iran’s latest attack on Israel over the weekend Defense Minister Nikos Dendias said that Greece plans to develop a defense system similar to Israel’s Iron Dome aimed at safeguarding the country against airborne threats. Meanwhile, while Iran was also the focus of a summit in Brussels, EU leaders also highlighted relations with Turkey, linking them to progress on the Cyprus issue. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s defense and diplomatic editor, joins Thanos Davelis to explore this plan for a Greek Iron Dome, discuss the view from Athens following Iran’s attack on Israel, and look at the key takeaways from the EU summit on Cyprus.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Athens seeks air defense system like Iron DomeTurkish threats over marine parksPM highlights Middle East crisis, Euro-Turkish relations at European Council SummitCyprus President optimistic on EU-Turkey talksTurkey-EU relations fracture over Cyprus connectionMitsotakis to meet Erdogan on May 13 in AnkaraEU to tighten Iran sanctions after Israel attack

Back in February, the readout from the 5th US-Greece strategic dialogue saw the US and Greece stress the importance of integrating youth in climate change mitigation and resilience, including through a youth corps exchange program that links the California Conservation Corps with Ecogenia in Greece. Thanos Davelis caught up with Larry Notheis, the Chief Deputy Director at the California Conservation Corps, on the sidelines of the “Our Ocean” conference in Athens to look at how the California Conservation Corps model can be applied in Greece, and how these partnerships can make a difference in protecting the oceans, preventing and fighting wildfires, and more. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:The First Ecogenia Social Service Program Launched in LitochoroUS embassy to cooperate with local environmental protection organizationJoint Statement on the U.S.-Greece 5th Strategic DialogueUnions in Greece call widespread strikes, seeking a return to bargaining rights axed during bailoutsGreece planning air defense system inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome, says minister

The memoirs of former German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schäuble were recently released in Germany. As expected, Greece features heavily. All the key moments of the crisis and its main actors are sketched in his memoirs, from the times Grexit was genuinely on the table, to his dealings with prime ministers Papandreou, Samaras, and Tsipras, and finance ministers Papaconstantinou, Venizelos, and Varoufakis. Xenia Kounalaki, a journalist and weekly columnist at Kathimerini, which acquired exclusive rights of publishing excerpts from the book in Greek, joins Thanos Davelis for an inside look into the Greek financial crisis through the lens of one of its main protagonists. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:The Greek crisis through Schaeuble’s memoirsParis 2024 Olympics torch lit in ancient OlympiaGreece becomes first European country to ban bottom trawling in marine parks

Last week thought leaders, politicians, experts and the business community gathered in Delphi in Greece for the 9th Delphi Economic Forum. The Hellenic American Leadership Council (HALC) had an important presence there as well, leading discussions on the role of the diaspora, the importance of Cyprus, the Middle East post October 7th, and the future direction of American foreign policy given US elections in November. Endy Zemenides, HALC’s Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis to recap the main takeaways from last week’s Delphi Economic Forum in Greece.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Delphi Economic Forum IXGreece to spend €780 mln to protect marine biodiversity, PM saysGreece now on ‘right path,’ says Stournaras

Reports indicate that a new flotilla to Gaza is being prepared out of Turkey. 14 years ago we saw a similar move take place, when the attempt to send the Mavi Marmara flotilla to Gaza led to a diplomatic crisis. Rich Goldberg, a senior advisor at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies with a deep expertise in sanctions policy who previously served on the White House National Security Council, joins Thanos Davelis to look at why we need to be paying attention to this new flotilla set to depart Turkey, which has the potential to spark another diplomatic crisis.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkish Organizations Ready Flotilla to Ignite Tensions With IsraelEU Commissioner Schinas hails bloc’s new migration lawsEU approves major overhaul of migration rulesGreece can serve as entry point for energy to the north, PM says‘Greece is redrawing energy map,’ says US ambassador

Years after its collapse in Iraq and Syria at the hands of a US-led coalition, it looks like ISIS is making a comeback. As reports indicate, ISIS has been expanding its presence in Syria, attacking regime soldiers, civilians, and the US-backed Kurdish-led SDF. An underreported element of this story is Turkey’s role in the revival of the Islamic State. Nadine Maenza joins Thanos Davelis to look at what a resurgent ISIS means for the region, particularly in the autonomous zone in north east Syria, and break down why we need to put the spotlight on Turkey’s role in this ISIS comeback.Nadine Maenza is the President of the IRF Secretariat, an international organization focused on building infrastructure to support the religious freedom movement globally. She also serves as a Global Fellow at the Wilson Center, and previously served as chair of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF).You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Worrying signs exist that IS growing stronger in SyriaSyrian Kurdish commander says resolve of US-led anti-ISIS coalition weakeningNadine Maenza on Turkey’s role in IS growing strongerGreece launches ‘free’ holidays for tourists who fled 2023 Rhodes wildfiresGreece’s F-35 deal moves forward

Greece’s government just announced the creation of two new marine parks – in the Ionian and Aegean seas. The move comes a week before Athens is set to host the 9th Our Ocean Conference on April 16 and 17, which will see key stakeholders not only put a spotlight on issues related to the protection of the seas, but also present a series of concrete proposals. Giorgos Lialios, a journalist at Kathimerini covering issues related to the environment, joins Thanos Davelis to talk about the new marine parks Greece is creating, look into the upcoming Our Oceans Conference, and more.Read Giorgos Lalios’ latest for Kathimerini: Greece commits to protection of its seasYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:The losing battle against Greece’s tumbling birthrateSakellaropoulou calls for ongoing support for UkraineZelensky warns of Russian aggression beyond Ukraine

Turkey announced it was restricting exports on a wide range of products to Israel on Tuesday, in Ankara's first significant measure against Israel after six months of war. The decision comes after Turkish President Erdogan’s party suffered a historic defeat in the municipal elections, a result which experts Sinan Ciddi and Steven Cook argued in Foreign Policy could provide a first glimpse into what a post-AKP Turkey might look like. Sinan Ciddi joins Thanos Davelis to look at why Erdogan is taking these measures against Israel now, and break down how it fits into the broader post-election narrative.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 and Steven Cook’s latest in Foreign Policy here: Post-Erdogan Turkey Is Finally HereYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkey imposes export restrictions on Israel until Gaza ceasefireGreece accuses Turkey of ‘politicizing’ environment, affirms commitment to safeguarding sovereign rightsTurkey challenges Greek plans for new marine park in Aegean Sea, citing sovereignty disputeEU Red Sea navy mission commander hopes for more ships to repel Houthi attacks

The last decade Thucydides has moved to the center of the discussion, with concepts like the “Thucydides trap” debated in policy circles in Washington, DC when looking at how to navigate US relations with a rising China in what appears to be a new era of great power competition. So what can Thucydides tell us about our world today? This was the focus of a recent event in Athens at the Institute of International Relations featuring Professor Andrew Novo, a scholar of ancient and modern Mediterranean history and strategic studies. Andrew Novo joins Thanos Davelis to look at the lessons we should take away from Thucydides in a changing world.Andrew Novo is Professor of Strategic Studies at the National Defense University in Washington, DC. He also teaches as an adjunct at Georgetown’s Walsh School of Foreign Service, is a non-resident fellow with the Center for European Policy’s Transatlantic Defense and Security program, and is the author of numerous books, including “Restoring Thucydides: Testing Familiar Lessons and Deriving New Ones”. All views expressed in this interview are his own and don’t reflect the views of the US government.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:We have good allies: Allies and decisions for war and peace in ThucydidesCyprus president and Lebanese caretaker premier urge EU financial aid to curb migration from LebanonGreece Invests Over €2 Billion to Fight Climate Change Effects

Migration is top of the agenda this week in Cyprus, with President Nikos Christodoulides calling for the EU to step in to help Cyprus deal with a surge in arrivals on its shores. Cyprus is pressing Brussels to designate parts of Syria as safe for returns of migrants, and also to condition EU aid to Lebanon on its preventing migrants from departing. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition and Politico’s Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the migration crisis unfolding in Cyprus, and look at how it is impacting the agenda ahead of the European elections.Read Nektaria Stamouli’s latest for Politico here:Cyprus declares migration crisis, calls for EU to helpCyprus demands Lebanon control migrant flowsYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Biden lauds Greek ideals, independence at White House celebrationLion’s share of foreign investment in realty

Greece is ramping up its firefighting efforts, with authorities betting on a host of preventive measures - from the deployment of firefighting aircraft to increased staffing in specialized forest firefighting units - as temperatures touched 30 degrees Celsius in late March and wildfires already broke out weeks earlier than expected. On top of multi-agency exercises and drills, Greece is also fast-tracking a 2.1 billion euro program to upgrade its fleet of firefighting aircraft and create an AI-driven sensor network to detect smoke in the early stages of a fire. Derek Gatopoulos, a correspondent for the Associated Press who has been covering news in Greece for more than 25 years, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the steps Greece is taking to prepare ahead of this summer’s wildfire season.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:As fire season fast approaches, Greece’s planners look for an edge in response timeGreek authorities overhaul wildfire response plans ahead of summer fire seasonEleven far-right MPs charged with electoral fraudGreece and India to sign defense cooperation agreement

With the EU elections on the horizon, one party in Greece, Greek Solution, is seeing a notable surge in support. The rise of this far right nationalist party also mirrors broader trends in the far right across Europe, and many are beginning to ask whether this resurgent far-right is here to stay. Dr. Georgios Samaras, an assistant professor of public policy at King’s College London, joins Thanos Davelis to look into the rise of Greek Solution and its leader Kostas Velopoulos, breaking down what this could mean for Greek politics ahead of European elections in June.Read Dr. Georgios Samaras’ latest piece in Kathimerini: The Greek far-right – a rising threat in the EU election stormYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:NATO to plan long-term Ukraine aid, mulls 100-billion euro fundNATO ministers’ doubts, fears and eye-rolls over €100B Ukraine planTurkey’s election authority reinstates pro-Kurdish mayoral election winner

Greece has just opened a new vacation visa terminal for Turkish visitors this week as part of a diplomatic effort to ease long-standing tensions between the two countries. The move follows the signing of a series of agreements between Greece and Turkey during President Erdogan’s meeting with Prime Minister Mitsotakis in Athens in December, most notably the Athens Declaration. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this latest initiative, and explore where it fits into ongoing efforts to maintain calm in the Aegean.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greek islands launch special visa program for Turkish visitors in diplomatic effort to calm regionMaintaining calm relations in the ‘frozen’ Greek-Turkish disputeCyprus to Gaza corridor will continue to operate, Cyprus president saysBlack Hawk helicopter purchase gets green light

Less than a year after securing another term, Turkish President Erdogan’s Justice and Development Party suffered its worst defeat in its 22-year history in Sunday’s municipal elections. All eyes were on Istanbul, where Ekrem Imamoglu easily won reelection and is increasingly cementing his place as Erdogan’s political challenger. Amberin Zaman, Al-Monitor’s chief correspondent covering major stories on the Middle East and North Africa, including Turkey, joins Thanos Davelis to break down Sunday’s results, what this defeat means for Erdogan, and look at whether the opposition’s resurgence can now reshape Turkey’s national politics. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan suffers an electoral disasterTurkish local elections: Opposition stuns Erdogan with historic victoryDefense Min unveils ‘Agenda 2030’ for armed forces restructuringMitsotakis launches campaign for Euro elections stressing security, stabilityPM notes high stakes of Euro elections

On Friday US and Turkish officials confirmed that Turkey’s President Erdogan will visit the White House on May 9th, a move that has been described as an apparent quid pro quo for Ankara’s decision to finally green-light Sweden’s NATO membership. Alan Makovsky, veteran Turkey analyst and senior fellow at the Center for American Progress, joins Thanos Davelis to examine how Erdogan finally snagged an invite to the White House, and look into what message this move sends about the Biden administration’s approach to Turkey in the wake of the Sweden NATO saga.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Erdogan snags White House invite in diplomatic win, Turkish press reportsBiden to host Turkey's Erdogan at White House on May 9Greece to raise monthly minimum wage by 6.4% to 830 eurosEU plans to fast-track some financial aid to Egypt

Can a small antique table give us insight into the history of an entire city and its broader connections to the region? A recent quest for such an antique sent Sean Mathews, a journalist based in Greece and covering the broader Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East, on a trip to Thessaloniki that quickly revealed just how multi-layered and cosmopolitan the city’s past is, with rich connections to the Eastern Mediterranean. Sean Mathews and George Manginis, the academic director at the Benaki Museum, join Thanos Davelis to break down this rich history and look at how current efforts to shine a light on Thessaloniki’s past cosmopolitanism are increasingly important today in a changing region. Read Sean Mathews’ latest article here: Ghosts of Thessaloniki: How a quest for a table revealed much about a city's multilayered pastYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greek government survives no-confidence vote over deadly Tempi train trashNo confidence motion fails, 141-159Tempe rail tragedy looms large over Euro pollsSecond aid ship heading to Gaza from CyprusEuropean Parliament President to visit Cyprus for humanitarian aid talks

A few weeks ago Greece passed a law allowing the operation of private, non-profit universities, including allowing foreign private universities to set up branches in the country. The move came despite weeks of demonstrations that included scores of university building occupations by students. Despite this, opinion polls indicate that most Greeks agree with the creation of privately-run universities. David Horner, the President of the American College of Greece, the oldest and largest US accredited college or university in Europe, joins Thanos Davelis to share his perspectives on the impact of this bill and the potential for Greece to serve as a global educational hub.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Private universities bill adoptedGreek lawmakers approve ending state monopoly on university education, despite student protestsErdogan snags White House invite in diplomatic win, Turkish press reportsCyprus aims to complete Vasilikos LNG terminal by year’s end

Earlier this year Kathimerini organized a three-day conference looking back at the 50 years since the restoration of democracy in Greece in 1974, or the Metapolitefsi. We saw a gathering of some of the most influential people of this period, including former prime ministers, who discussed in depth the numerous crises the country has gone through during the past 50 years and many of its accomplishments. Alexis Papachelas, Kathimerini’s Editor in Chief, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss why this 50th anniversary is important not just for understanding the country’s history, but to learn from its lessons, especially at a time when we see democracy under threat across the world.Read Alexis Papachelas latest on this issue here: Lessons from the MetapolitefsiYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Fifty years after the MetapolitefsiMetapolitefsi divides generationsA conference of reflectionCyprus to get US expertise in countering money launderingPolarization fueled ahead of Euro election

As we celebrate Greek independence day today, March 25th, we’re going to take a deeper look at one of the crucial figures of the Greek Revolution of 1821, Lord Byron. Aside from his status as a world renowned poet at the time, he is also perhaps the most famous philhellene to travel to Greece and ultimately give his life for Greek independence in 1824, 200 years ago. Professor Roderick Beaton, a historian and author of the books Byron’s War: Romantic Rebellion, Greek Revolution, Greece: Biography of a Modern Nation, and The Greeks: A Global History, joins Thanos Davelis to explore Lord Byron’s important contributions to the Greek cause and his wider legacy. Read Prof. Roderick Beaton’s book on Lord Byron here: Byron's War: Romantic Rebellion, Greek RevolutionYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Mitsotakis, Trudeau hail Greek-Canadian relations in joint statementMitsotakis, on Canadian TV, touts ‘rather impressive’ economic comebackNorth-South EU divide over defense bond

This past week Washington’s attention has been on Cyprus and the humanitarian corridor from Gaza, from President Biden’s letter thanking President Christodoulides, to the National Security Council’s chief of staff visiting Cyprus. Cyprus is also going to be a central theme for diaspora Greeks as celebrations for Greek independence day kick off on March 25th. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest on these key developments on Cyprus, and provides a look ahead at the upcoming Greek Independence Day celebrations.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:US racing to prepare Gaza jetty by May 1, says US officialBiden on Greek Independence Day: friendship ‘stronger than ever before’Christodoulides eyes EU-Turkey talks for Cyprob benefitEU summit stirs hope for Cyprus President's role in Turkey talksGreek authorities overhaul wildfire response plans ahead of summer fire season

With Ukraine facing a resurgent Russia, NATO leaders have been clear that they do not and “will never recognize Russia’s illegal and illegitimate annexations, including Crimea.” While Western leaders speak clearly when it comes to Ukraine, their uncompromising positions are unfortunately undermined when NATO remains largely silent over the precedent for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine: Turkey’s invasion and occupation of the northern part of Cyprus in 1974. 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 explain why NATO’s 50 year tolerance of Turkey’s occupation of Cyprus weakens its case on Ukraine. Read Michael Rubin’s latest here: NATO tolerance of Cyprus’ occupation weakens case on UkraineYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Extra rules for Golden VisaTurkish central bank stuns market by hiking interest rates to 50%Turkey raises interest rates to 50% as it seeks to cool runaway inflation

In a speech on Monday Turkey’s President Erdogan not only defended the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974, but went even further, stating that if Turkish troops hadn’t stopped then all of Cyprus would be Turkish today. His comments come as a new UN special envoy is looking for ways to restart talks on Cyprus and amid efforts by Athens and Ankara to normalize ties. They also come on the heels of a recent trip that saw Greece and Cyprus deepen ties with Egypt. 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 break down Erdogan’s latest outbursts and their broader impact. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Erdogan’s comments on Cyprus a blatant distortion of the historical truth, say sourcesErdogan: All Cyprus could have been oursGreek PM and Egyptian President strengthen partnershipAs economy rebounds, Greece will wrap up bank sales this year, finance minister saysPM to visit Canada, finalize purchase of firefighting planes

As in the past, the upcoming municipal elections in Turkey are playing a key role in shaping the country's economic policies. While time and resources have been wasted due to Erdogan’s political priorities, soaring inflation - which surpassed 67% earlier this year - and the cost of living crisis has made daily life increasingly difficult for most citizens. Wolfango Piccoli, the co-founder of risk analysis company Teneo, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how the upcoming elections are impacting Turkey’s economic policies, and whether we should expect a shift in policy from Erdogan following elections.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkey inflation rises to 67%, keeping pressure on cenbankTurkey’s Simsek Dismisses Post-Election Lira Doom ScenarioErdogan: All Cyprus could have been oursErdogan’s comments on Cyprus a blatant distortion of the historical truth, say sourcesFood aid from Cyprus reaches starving people in northern Gaza, says charity

The rise of the far right nationalist party Greek Solution is attracting the interest of many who follow Greek politics, especially due to its approach to issues like Athens’ support for Ukraine. If Greek Solution’s growing appeal in the opinion polls continues ahead of European elections in June, it could even end up in third place. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English edition, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the rise of Greek Solution and what it could mean for Prime Minister Mitsotakis, New Democracy, and Greece’s broader political scene. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:The rise of Greek SolutionEU announces €7.4 bln package for Egypt as concerns over migration mountGreek PM and Egyptian President strengthen partnershipMaintaining calm relations in the ‘frozen’ Greek-Turkish disputeUS Ambassador to Greece wants more US-Greece flights

In 2019 the municipal elections in Turkey garnered widespread attention both inside and outside the country, especially with Turkish President Erdogan’s handpicked AKP candidates losing Istanbul and Ankara. Erdogan is now intent on winning both back. Ayla Jean Yackley, an Istanbul-based journalist covering Turkey with stories in The Financial Times, Politico, and other major outlets, joins Thanos Davelis to look at why we should be paying attention to Turkey’s upcoming elections, which could be critical for the country’s politics - from the ruling party to the opposition.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Local Elections Will Soon Decide Turkey’s FutureErdogan Tightens Grip on Media and Internet Ahead of ElectionsThe complex landscape facing Turkey ahead of local electionsAid supply ship from Cyprus reaches Gaza coast but weather slows deliveryHumanitarian aid ship reaches GazaGreece will keep supplying Ukraine

How critical was the US role during the Greek debt crisis, and how does it fit into then President Barack Obama’s wider approach to US foreign policy, especially at a time when the US was looking to pivot to Asia? Katerina Sokou, who holds the research fellowship at ELIAMEP on “Greek-American Relations” and who covered the Greek crisis from Washington, DC as a correspondent for Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to break down how the Greek debt crisis provides a case study into the Obama foreign policy doctrine - the focus of her recent in-depth report for ELIAMEP - and underscores Europe’s continuing importance for Washington, DC. Read Katerina Sokou’s latest here: Obama’s Foreign Policy and the Greek Debt CrisisYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Second ship loaded with Gaza aid from Cyprus, says charityUS Army boats head out on a mission to build a floating pier off Gaza’s shore for food deliveriesPM: Beleri case clouds relations with AlbaniaRama appoints ethnic Greek as Vlora prefect

Egypt is set to receive a €7.4 billion aid package to not only shore up the country’s economy, but also curb migration. The move comes amid fears that the conflicts in Gaza and Sudan risk exacerbating financial troubles in the country while raising concerns of new waves of immigration to Europe. There are concerns that Crete, which is already seeing a spike in arrivals from north Africa, could come under pressure. Greek Migration Minister Dimitris Kairidis joins Thanos Davelis to break down why this deal is vital for Egypt, Europe, and Greece. We also look into the broader debate around migration, that also focuses on the urgent need for migrants for the Greek and European economies.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Brussels prepares €7.4bn aid package for EgyptMigrant flows putting pressure on CreteEgyptian headache in Athens and EUAsylum applications in EU at highest level since 2015/16 crisisPM heading to US in AprilPlan to prevent Thessaly desertification

The European Commission is set to recommend that the EU open accession talks with Bosnia and Herzegovina, despite lingering ethnic divisions in the Western Balkan country. This comes after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed that it’s “not enough to just wait for the Western Balkans to move closer” to the EU. At the same time, US Special Representative to the Western Balkans Gabriel Escobar is also in the region to reaffirm America’s commitment to the Euro-Atlantic integration of the Western Balkans. Prof. James Ker-Lindsay, who has written extensively on the EU, the Balkans, and Southeast Europe, joins Thanos Davelis to break down these latest developments.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:European Union members should open talks with Bosnia on joining, the EU’s executive branch saysBrussels recommends opening EU membership talks with Bosnia and HerzegovinaSenior US Official Travels to Kosovo to Revive Kosovo-Serbia Talks After Tensions Over Currency Special Representative to the Western Balkans Gabriel Escobar’s Travel to Belgium, Kosovo, Austria, and MontenegroIOBE calls for measures to stem demographic trendGaza war: First aid ship sets off from Cyprus‘Lifeline’ aid ship for Gaza finally sets sail from Cyprus

We’ve just seen consecutive visits to the US by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin, with both officials discussing a series of issues - from the wars in Gaza and Ukraine to trade and investments - with the White House, the State Department and Congress. This has many wondering if we are seeing a “new momentum” in US-Turkey ties in the wake of the Sweden NATO saga. Expert Sinan Ciddi joins Thanos Davelis to discuss whether this is the case.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.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:New visits, full momentum: Can Turkey and US go beyond transactionalism?Joint Statement on the U.S.-Türkiye Strategic MechanismTurkey’s Fidan to meet Blinken in Washington as US ties strengthenTurkey: A Sanctuary for Terrorist Entities & Illicit FinanceS-300 missiles could be sent to UkraineGreece-Turkey political dialogue: Commitment to build on existing positive atmosphere

On Friday the US, EU, Cyprus, and other countries involved formally announced their backing for a sea aid corridor to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza, built around a proposal developed by Cyprus last year. The move follows President Biden’s announcement in the State of the Union of a plan for the US military to establish a temporary port on the coast of Gaza to significantly widen the flow of humanitarian aid into the Strip. Konstantinos Letymbiotis, the Government Spokesperson of the Republic of Cyprus, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this humanitarian corridor and Cyprus’ central role in it. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Cyprus’ top diplomat on the maritime corridorPentagon holds briefing after Biden announces plan to deliver aid to Gaza by seaSea Corridor for Gaza Tests U.S. Ability to Ease Humanitarian CrisisA ship with Gaza aid is preparing to inaugurate a sea route from Cyprus to the war-ravaged stripJoint statement by EU, Cyprus, UAE, US, and UK on aid effort to GazaPrivate universities bill adoptedGreek lawmakers approve ending state monopoly on university education, despite student protestsTurkey's Erdogan says March election will be his final, state media reportsTurkey’s Erdogan indicates he will step down at end of term after 2 decades in power

On Wednesday international headlines all focused on the Russian ballistic missile that struck a few hundred meters from where Greece’s Prime Minister Mitsotakis was meeting with Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy in Odesa. Ambassador Spiros Lambridis, Greece’s special envoy for Ukraine, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this incident and look at the broader significance of Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ visit to Ukraine. We’ll also explore Greece’s overall efforts to support Kyiv in this war, from military assistance to helping Ukraine rebuild.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Mitsotakis: Greece supports Ukraine’s fight for freedomPM’s Ukraine visit turns into thriller Russia Strikes Odesa With Missile During Visit by Zelensky and Greek LeaderMitsotakis after Odesa missile hit: ‘No one will intimidate us’Sweden officially joins NATO, prime minister declares it a 'safer country'Sweden is now a full NATO memberUS to build temporary port to deliver Gaza aidBiden Seeks to Boost Emergency Aid to Gaza With Offshore Pier

This week an Albanian court sentenced Fredi Beleri, the imprisoned mayor-elect of Himare, to 2 years in prison. Beleri slammed the trial and the court’s decision as a “sham”. This case is about much more than one individual, however, touching on deeper issues in Greek-Albanian relations. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this latest development in the Beleri case, and look at what this decision - which is widely seen as political - tells us about the direction Albania’s Prime Minister Edi Rama is taking the country, from the rule of law to its relations with Greece.Read Vassilis Nedos latest for Kathimerini here: Rama burns bridges with Beleri convictionYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Albania: Ethnic Greek mayor sentenced to two years for vote buyingRussian missile nearly hits Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Greek PM Kyriakos MitsotakisExplosion rocks Odesa near where Zelenskyy was meeting Greek PMPM’s Ukraine visit turns into thriller Gaza aid due to sail soon from Cyprus, source says

When China’s Belt and Road Initiative was formally launched in 2013, it was touted as a world-spanning push to replicate the economic and political impact of the Silk Road. As it made investments across the world - including in the port of Piraeus during the depths of the financial crisis - Western capitals sought to counter Beijing’s growing influence. While it appears that the BRI is in retreat today, there are still risks. Josh Birenbaum, the deputy director of the Center on Economic and Financial Power at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the BRI today, why Europe and Washington should still be concerned about China, and what tools are available to counter Beijing - from the DFC to the proposed IMEC corridor. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:China’s Belt and Road Initiative is bringing new risks to EuropeTightening the Belt or End of the Road? China’s BRI at 10Albania: Ethnic Greek mayor sentenced to two years for vote buyingBeleri: ‘It was a sham trial’Rama burns bridges with Beleri convictionVon der Leyen expected in Cyprus to discuss sea corridorUrsula von der Leyen in Cyprus for humanitarian corridor talks

In 2020 Turkey’s government changed the status of Hagia Sophia from a museum into a mosque. Now, Ankara is looking to repeat this with another important UNESCO World Heritage site, Chora Church. In response, HALC has launched a petition calling on the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) to exert pressure on Turkey for the protection of its Christian minorities and Christian cultural heritage. Dr. Elizabeth Prodromou joins Thanos Davelis to look at why preserving Chora Church is important, and break down how USCIRF can take action - including visiting Turkey and the occupied territories of Cyprus.Dr. Elizabeth Prodromou is a professor in the International Studies Department at Boston College, an internationally recognized leader on issues of religion and human rights, and a previous Vice Chair and Commissioner on the US Commission on International Religious Freedom.Add you name to HALC’s petition to USCIRFYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkey revives plan to convert another iconic Byzantine site into a mosqueDendias: After Red Sea mission, Greece seeks key role in EU defenseTurkey spy chief Kalin to meet CIA’s Burns, discuss Syria on first US visit

The US Senate put the Turkey F-16 deal back in the spotlight this week, with Senator Rand Paul initiating a debate over why this sale to Ankara was proceeding. While some key Senators stressed that a “deal is a deal”, they also voiced their deep concerns about Turkey - from its human rights record to its aggression across the region. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what took place in the Senate, the message it sends about US-Turkey ties, and more.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Senators warily allow F-16 sale to Turkey as part of NATO expansion agreementForeign policy milestones: EU accession, Turkey, Cyprus, PrespesEU border agency to triple officers on Bulgaria-Turkey frontierUS plans first military airdrop of aid into GazaUS weighs Cyprus humanitarian corridor as famine looms in Gaza

This past weekend SYRIZA held a 4 day convention that was filled with drama and chaos, with both its identity as well as its leadership being challenged. With a new leadership race narrowly avoided, the question remains if there is a leader in the fragmented center left that can unite the opposition. At the same time, recent polling shows an increase in support for parties to the right of New Democracy. Political scientist and expert Panos Koliastasis joins Thanos Davelis to look at this ongoing crisis in SYRIZA and the broader center left, while breaking down the latest polls and the message they send ahead of European elections.Panos Koliastasis, an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Politics at the University of Peloponnese, contributor to Kathimerini, and the author of the book "Permanent campaigning in Greece in times of crisis: the Samaras, Tsipras and Mitsotakis premierships".You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:SYRIZA: The challenge of unity and reinventionGreek center-left: The long road to unityRuling New Democracy maintains dominanceGreece seeking to create ‘smarter’ armySenators warily allow F-16 sale to Turkey as part of NATO expansion agreement

The current crisis in the Middle East - from Gaza to the Red Sea - is threatening the stability of Egypt, one of the most important countries in the Arab world. Policymakers from Washington to Athens know that if Egypt falls the aftershocks would be felt across the region, as the ensuing social explosion would cause chaos, uncontrollable migrant flows to Europe and the creation of another trouble spot - beyond Libya - in the region. Alexis Papachelas, Kathimerini’s editor in chief, joins Thanos Davelis to look at why there is good reason to worry about Egypt in Washington, Brussels, and Athens.Read Alexis Papachelas’ latest in Kathimerini: There’s good reason to worry about EgyptYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Tens of thousands take to Greece’s streets demanding justice for deadly train crashGermany hosts peace talks between Armenia and AzerbaijanGermany hosts talks between Armenia and AzerbaijanArmenia, Azerbaijan inch toward shaky peace deal but key issues unaddressed