Greece issued an official diplomatic protest to Ukraine last month over an explosive-laden sea drone found in its waters. Athens stated that the vehicle seriously endangered maritime traffic.
The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that the protest was delivered after an investigation and that the issue was directly raised with both Ukrainian officials and international partners.
Highlights
- The explosive-laden sea drone was found by fishermen off the coast of Lefkada on May 7.
- Greece claimed the vehicle belonged to Ukraine.
- Athens stated that the drone threatened maritime traffic and posed a risk of civilian casualties or environmental damage.
- The Ukrainian side says there is no evidence linking the vehicle to Ukrainian sea drone operations.
Athens contacted Kiev and allies
Greek Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lana Zochiou announced that Greek officials discussed the matter directly with Ukrainian officials after the investigation. The ministry also conveyed that Kaja Kallas, the European Union's foreign policy chief, was informed about the findings.
It was reported that Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis also contacted NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and addressed the issue with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha at the informal EU foreign ministers meeting in Limassol.
Official note delivered in two capitals
Athens delivered both verbal and written diplomatic notes to Kiev on May 28 and 29. Following these initiatives, Greece reiterated its clear opposition to the presence of armed unmanned sea vehicles in its waters.
The Greek side argued that such presence poses a danger to civilian ship traffic and could lead to civilian deaths or environmental disasters. The statement also warned that the transfer of military activities to the Mediterranean could harm Greece's national security and economy.
Ukraine denies connection
Ukrainian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi publicly stated that there is no evidence linking the vehicle to Ukrainian sea drone operations. This statement further highlighted the diplomatic tension between the two countries.
Greece recognizes Ukraine's right to self-defense but argues that this does not legitimize such actions. Athens called for similar incidents not to be repeated.
Context: The incident is notable as it is the first time sea vehicles linked to the Black Sea war have become a subject of debate in the Mediterranean. Greece emphasizes security and maritime traffic risks, while Ukraine denies the accusation.