The Greek Current

Since it was introduced, President Trump's peace plan for Ukraine has put many European leaders in a bind. With Turkey's occupation of Cyprus in its 51st year, and amid open Turkish threats against Greece's Aegean islands, Greece is also worried about the precedent this plan would set. John Psaropoulos joins Thanos Davelis as we break down these concerns, the latest comments by US Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack about resolving Greek-Turkish differences, and Greece's efforts to aggressively court US investments.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:Why Trump's plan for Ukraine alarms the GreeksCyprus pitches plan to untangle Turkey tensionsFarmers' protests escalate into third weekProtesting farmers present their demands

In a recent speech Turkish President Erdogan praised Syrians who were born and raised in Turkey, speak Turkish, and are now in Syria, saying, "Right next door to us… a brother nation that speaks our same language is rising anew from the ashes.” The quote has drawn the attention of experts like Ryan Gingeras, who joins Thanos Davelis as we look into what it tells us about Erdogan's worldview, and why this is something to keep an eye on as we look at the shifting power dynamics in the Levant.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Erdogan praises Syrians born and raised in TurkeyFrom Grexit to Eurogroup chief: Greece's recovery storyPierrakakis elected Eurogroup chiefEuropean Commission firmly behind Greece-Cyprus power link

The Trump administration's NSS - and its scathing critique of Europe - has drawn a lot of attention over the past days. Yet, this is only part of the big picture when we talk about the problems facing European leaders, which include everything from the war in Ukraine - where pressure is mounting - to a sluggish economy and the far right. Steven Erlanger, the chief diplomatic correspondent for The New York Times covering Europe, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the stakes Europe's leaders face.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:The Challenges to Europe's Security Go Beyond Trump's Lack of SupportTom Barrack: Turkey has to give up the S-400 to return to F-35 programMounting pressure on farm policyBlockades deepen political strainPM holds talks with senior officials on farmer payments plan as protests escalate

The Economist just highlighted Greece as an example for countries looking to digitalize, recognizing the efforts Athens made between 2018 and 2024 to transform its public services and embrace the digital transformation. Diomidis Spinellis, a former Greek official now with the Athens University of Economics, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at this story.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece is teaching Germany how to get government onlineThe Greek economy's drawbacksElefsina port tender coming 

This weekend we heard Hakan Fidan say he believes Ankara and Washington will find a way to remove CAATSA sanctions "very soon". His comments echo those of US Ambassador Tom Barrack, who was quoted saying that the “hurdle” blocking F-35 access for Turkey might be resolved within 4 to 6 months. Sinan Ciddi, a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and an expert on Turkish politics, joins Thanos Davelis as we look to break down why Barrack and Fidan insist a “solution” is within reach despite Turkey refusing to get rid of its Russian S-400s.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkey Closer to Clearing Way for F-35s, Says Trump Ally BarrackTurkey, US will find way of removing CAATSA sanctions ‘very soon', Turkish FM saysBerlin-Athens migrant returns ‘understanding'Iraklio airport resumes flights after farmers end protestProtesting Greek farmers swarm onto airport tarmac in Crete, forcing halt to flights

The Trump administration's new National Security Strategy is causing a stir in Europe with its searing critique of America's closest allies, including a warning that the continent is facing “civilizational decline”. Ian Lesser, the vice president and Brussels chief of the German Marshall Fund of the United States, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at what some are already calling the “mother of all wake-up calls” from Washington toward Europe.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Trump Administration Says Europe Faces ‘Civilizational Erasure'Trump warns Europe faces ‘civilizational erasure' in explosive new documentU.S. Flips History by Casting Europe—Not Russia—as Villain in New Security PolicyFarmers step up road blockades across GreecePM urges farmers to scale back protests, promises payments by year-endTurkey, US will find way of removing CAATSA sanctions ‘very soon', Turkish FM says

Last week Cyprus and Lebanon signed a long-awaited maritime demarcation deal, an agreement that not only paves the way for potential exploration and energy cooperation, but also checks Turkey's revisionist “Blue Homeland” doctrine in the Eastern Mediterranean. 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 as we look into what's being called a “historic” deal that also serves to bridge the EU with the Middle East.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Cyprus–Lebanon deal sets new legal line in the Eastern Med, and Ankara isn't loving itLebanon, Cyprus sign maritime deal, paving way for possible energy explorationGreece, Bulgaria and Romania sign agreement on Aegean-Black Sea corridorCyprus pledges Ukraine will be ''front and center” during EU presidency

Greek farmers are making headlines amid an escalating confrontation with the government, as thousands of tractors continue to block traffic on highways and at border crossings. What began as a dispute over delayed EU-backed subsidy payments linked to a corruption scandal is quickly turning into a political test for the government. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder of Macropolis.gr, joins Thanos Davelis to break down the stakes as farmers take to the streets. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Farmers dig in as clashes and political tension escalateFarmers not going anywhere as protest action persistsChristodoulides rolls into Kyiv for face-to-face talks with ZelenskyUS presses Athens on Ukraine fund

What's Tom Barrack, the US Ambassador to Turkey, up to? That's a question that's emerged after a recent interview he gave to Kathimerini, where he talked about Washington's aspiration for a “new regional ordinance” and made head-scratching comments about Greek-Turkish relations and Cyprus. Henri Barkey and Endy Zemenides join Thanos Davelis as we look to tackle this question.Henri Barkey is an adjunct senior fellow for Middle East studies at the Council on Foreign Relations and the Cohen chair in international relations at Lehigh University.Endy Zemenides is Executive Director of HALC.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:The US ‘goal' is to serve as a ‘bridge' in Greek-Turkish tiesPM urges farmers to avoid roadblocks, pledges faster subsidy paymentsGreece to repay €5.29 billion early under first memorandum loans

As countries around the world scramble to see who is going to win the AI race, Greece is also looking to secure its own AI future. Prime Minister Mitsotakis' emphasis on AI, coupled by signature deals with OpenAI and Mistral AI, is putting a spotlight on Greece's efforts to play a larger role on the AI frontier. Niko Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into these developments and explore the ways Greece is betting on AI.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Mitsotakis meets Mistral AI CEO to discuss AI collaborationWatch: Συζήτηση Κυριάκου Μητσοτάκη με τον Arthur Mensch | GenAI SummitGreece joins EU defense programFarmers blockade highways over payments

With talks over a deal to end the Russia-Ukraine war moving along, the latest peace proposals have caught the attention of many, including Cyprus, where Turkey's 51 year illegal occupation serves as a stark reminder of what happens when revisionist powers are not checked. Harris Georgiades, the Chairman of the Foreign and European Affairs Committee of the Cypriot Parliament, a former Minister of Finance, and the chairman of the Clerides Institute, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at these peace talks, the parallels between what Russia is doing in Ukraine and what Turkey has done for over 50 years in Cyprus, and more.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Rubio Says ‘Much Work to Do' After Talks With Ukrainian DelegationEU tells Trump: You can't pardon Putin for war crimes in Ukraine Γράμμα από το ΚίεβοEurope Fears It Can't Catch Up in Great Power CompetitionLebanon, Cyprus sign maritime deal, paving way for possible energy explorationJoint declaration signed in Pope's historic first visit to Patriarchate

Two of America's key Mediterranean partners, Greece and Israel, are deepening their defense and security ties, a trend that extends beyond arms sales to joint exercises. The move comes amid Turkish provocations and as US interests in the Mediterranean, particularly on energy security, are growing. The Foundation for Defense of Democracies' Ryan Brobst and Justin Leopold-Cohen join Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at Greece and Israel's growing defense ties and the opportunities it presents for the region and the US.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Eyeing Turkey, Israel and Greece Work To Deepen Defense TiesPope Leo XIV visits Turkey and Lebanon on first foreign tripPope Leo to take peace message to Turkey, Lebanon on first overseas tripGreek households' real incomes still below 2004 levels

Halki Theological Seminary, shut by Turkey in 1971, is back in the headlines ahead of Pope Leo XIV's visit to Turkey. Journalists are reporting that there is a sense of optimism that Turkey will reopen the school. This attention on Halki follows a renewed focus on Orthodox Christianity that includes the Ecumenical Patriarch's visit to the White House, references to the Russian Orthodox Church in Trump's Ukraine peace plan, and questions about whether the Russians are running an influence operation in DC. Endy Zemenides, HALC's Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis as we break all of this down.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Optimism ahead of pope's visit to Turkey for reopening of Istanbul's Greek Orthodox seminary‘We must strive for unity of the churches'White House to meet clergy with ties to pro-war Russian Orthodox ChurchAre the Russians Running an Influence Operation in Congress?Greek secondary school teachers to be trained in using AI in classroomTurkish delegation meets Ocalan for first time to discuss PKK disarmament

Last week we got a look at the details of President Trump's 28 point plan for an end to the war in Ukraine, with the President setting a Thursday deadline for  Ukraine - where many see the proposed plan as a capitulation - to agree to it. US and Ukrainian officials met on Sunday in Geneva, with the White House hailing talks as constructive. Paul Stares, the director of the Center for Preventive Action and coordinator for the "Special Initiative on Securing Ukraine's Future" at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into this plan and what it means for Ukraine, Europe, and NATO.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Trump Peace Plan Demands Major Concessions From UkraineUkraine and U.S. Cite Progress in Talks on Ending War With RussiaTrump's growing impatience to end Ukraine war is a concern for KyivPM says new energy initiatives boost Greece's geopolitical roleOptimism ahead of pope's visit to Turkey for reopening of Istanbul's Greek Orthodox seminary

The New York Times just ran a piece about a wave of new converts to Orthodox Christianity in the US, especially among young conservative men, the so-called “Orthobros”. The trend is largely driven by hard-line influencers on YouTube and other social media platforms, and has put parishes in uncharted territory. George Demacopoulos, the co-director of the Orthodox Christian Studies Center at Fordham University, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into the “Orthobro” phenomenon and what it means for the church.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Orthodox Church Pews Are Overflowing With ConvertsAn ‘exceptional' brand looking for a new identityMitsotakis: Greece aims for ‘win-win' with US without undoing China deals

This week Italy's defense minister accused Russia of waging a hybrid war on the continent, while Poland's Donald Tusk said that Russia was behind an explosion on Saturday on a railway line used to transport weapons to Ukraine. This is pushing Europe to take additional steps to beef up its defense amid wider concerns that Russia could take these hybrid attacks a step further. Charles Kupchan, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and expert on Europe, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into Russia's hybrid attacks on Europe, asking the question whether Russia could escalate. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:EU Proposes Multibillion-Euro Plan to Boost Military Mobility, Defense Tech Amid Russia TensionsHow the EU plans to get troops and weapons across the continent to deter Russia‘We are under attack': Italian defense minister accuses Russia of waging hybrid warPoland plans to charge 2 Ukrainians with sabotage of terrorist nature for railway explosionChina lashes out against US's Greece ambassador Kimberly GuilfoylePresident Christodoulides to meet with newly elected Turkish-Cypriot leader

Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos met with Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington this week, with the foreign minister stressing how the relationship with the US is “a compass” in Cyprus' foreign policy. Evangelos Savva, the Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to the United States, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down the significance of this meeting, and look at the message it sends about ever-deepening US-Cyprus ties. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:US and Cyprus reaffirm deepening tiesUS-backed Elefsina port plan advancesAthens and Kyiv seal naval drone deal

The Wall Street Journal ran a story earlier this month highlighting how the problem economies in Europe are no longer in the south, but in the north, with France and Germany dealing with budget deficits and debt while the former crisis hot spots like Greece look financially healthier. Mij Rahman, managing director for Europe at the Eurasia Group, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at this story.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Europe's Role Reversal: The Problem Economies Are Now Farther NorthKombos highlights Cyprus' growing value to the U.S.PM says government will allocate over 2 billion euros to support incomes

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was just in Athens on Sunday, signing an agreement with Greece for gas imports ahead of what's expected to be a tough winter. John Psaropoulos joins Thanos Davelis as we look at this agreement, which comes days after Greece signed landmark energy deals with the US, and which puts Greece's role in supporting both Ukraine and Europe's effort to break its dependence on Russian gas in the spotlight.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:Ukraine secures winter gas support from GreeceCyprus urges Turkey to drop two-state demand to advance EU bidAthens tightens security as events peak for Polytechnic uprising anniversaryPresident marks 52 years since Polytechnic uprising

Last week's deal between ExxonMobil, Energean and Helleniq Energy for exploration and drilling in the Ionian Sea generated a lot of buzz both in Greece and - as we saw at P-TEC in Athens - among US officials. This move comes as another US energy giant, Chevron, is also engaging with Greece and Cyprus. Energy expert Dr. Theodoros Tsakiris joins Thanos Davelis to break down why these deals could be game-changing for Greece. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Exxon enters Greece with gas deal that expands US footprint in eastern MedGreece names Chevron, Helleniq Energy consortium as preferred bidder for offshore gas searchFresh push for Greece-Cyprus cableNew US ambassador says Greece key to countering Russian and Chinese influence

In a recent interview former Prime Minister Antonis Samaras - who was expelled from New Democracy a year ago - took a swing at the government, and many are asking not if, but when he will form a new party. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini's English edition, joins Thanos Davelis as we explore what this could mean for Greece's ruling party and Greek politics.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Samaras critical of Mitsotakis, closer to forming a new partyGreece, Cyprus, Spain and Italy eligible for new help dealing with migration, EU saysEurope should align with Donald Trump on Middle East strategy, Cyprus says 

In a move that no one could have seen coming a year ago, President Trump hosted Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa - formerly on Washington's list of wanted terrorists - at the White House this week. Thanos Davelis is joined by Aaron David Miller, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and expert on the Middle East, as we look into al-Sharaa's transformation and the message this meeting sends about US priorities in the region.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Syria's President Meets Trump at White House for First TimeSyria to join US-led coalition to defeat IS group after Trump meetingPivotal U.S. Summit Could Help Mend a Fractured SyriaPower link's European shieldTurkey demands more than 2,000 years in jail for popular Istanbul mayor

Energy is at the heart of the US-Greece relationship these days, especially with a landmark offshore gas exploration deal with ExxonMobil and a 20-year LNG agreement with the US. Thanos Davelis is joined by Ambassador Geoffrey Pyatt, as we look at how energy is driving US-Greece relations forward, and how it's giving the 3+1 partnership of Greece, Cyprus, Israel and the US a new boost.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece deepens US energy ties with first gas exploration deal in 40 yearsGreece, US ink 20-year LNG contract‘Achilles' Shield' defense program moving forward againSyrian President Sharaa arrives at White House in historic firstSyria's President Meets Trump at White House for First Time 

The election of Egypt's Khaled El-Enany as the new Director General of UNESCO and the recent announcement from Prime Minister Mitsotakis that Greece and Egypt have worked to preserve the status of Saint Catherine's Monastery at Mount Sinai have put cultural heritage in the spotlight. Dr. Elizabeth Prodromou, an expert on religious freedom issues and cultural heritage, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into these developments, the concerns around El-Enany's election, and the broader use of cultural heritage as a geopolitical tool.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Khaled El-Enany elected Director-General of UNESCOEgypt's Enany set to lead UNESCO despite criticism of heritage record at homePM: Greece and Egypt have safeguarded spiritual character of Sinai MonasteryGreece, US ink 20-year LNG contractUAE envoy says aid to Gaza will be scaled up, Cyprus is key route

This week President Erdogan said Turkey had entered a ‘new juncture' in the Kurdish peace process, signalling he was open to the idea of jailed PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan addressing lawmakers. In another startling move, he also suggested that he was open to the release of the jailed Kurdish politician Selahattin Demirtaş. Lisel Hintz, Assistant Professor of International Relations at Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies and an expert on Turkey, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what these steps could mean for the Kurdish peace process.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Erdoğan says Turkey has entered ‘new juncture' in Kurdish peace processIonian Sea gas exploration deal a ‘vote of confidence'Greece deepens US energy ties with first gas exploration deal in 40 yearsAnkara dismisses Eurofighter use conditions

Turkey has been expanding its diplomatic, economic, and security footprint in Africa over the past decade. A surge in arms sales is now raising alarms, as Turkish arms - primarily drones - end up in conflict zones and in the hands of unaccountable actors. William Doran, the co-author of the recent Foreign Policy Magazine piece “How Turkish Arms End Up In African Conflicts”, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why Ankara's engagement on the continent is generating violence, not stability.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:How Turkish Arms End Up in African ConflictsMitsotakis meets new US ambassador, highlights energy and investment tiesUS-Greece strategic cooperation deepening

Turkey is eager to capitalize on its role in the Gaza ceasefire, and is now looking to have an active presence - even with troops on the ground - in a post-war Gaza. It seems President Trump also sees a role for Turkey here, something that is alarming Israel. 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 take a closer look at this story, breaking down what it means for Washington and the region.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Trump sees central role for Turkey in Gaza peace, but Israel is crying foulGreece scrambles to secure farm fundsWater overuse has led Cyprus to shortages

An unlikely figure, Maria Karystianou, is at the heart of political speculation in Greece. Local media is filled with rumors that the mother of one of the victims of the deadly Tempe train crash and figurehead of a wave of protests that followed may enter politics, and polling shows she could draw in significant support. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder of Macropolis.gr, joins Thanos Davelis to look at this story, and break down what it tells us about the state of Greek politics today.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greeks look to grieving mother in search for a political saviorKarystianou denies reports she is launching political partyUS Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle meets embassy staff in AthensNew US ambassador to meet GerapetritisMussels reveal growing microplastic pollution in Greece's prized seas

Last week we looked into the US quest for energy dominance and what it means for Greece. This week energy is back on the agenda, as Greece plays host to top energy officials from the US, Cyprus, and Israel. These meetings also mark the first official appearance of US Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle in Athens. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini's diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis as we explore whether energy diplomacy can give the “3+1” partnership a new boost, and what it means for the bilateral relationship to have a new US ambassador in Athens.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Energy diplomacy brings 3+1 format back to lifePM: Greece and Egypt have safeguarded spiritual character of Sinai MonasteryKarystianou denies reports she is launching political party

A little over 2 years ago, the October 7th attack by Hamas shifted the world's attention away from the newly announced India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, or IMEEC, a project Greece and Cyprus are also vying to play a key role in. With the Israel-Gaza ceasefire in place, is it now time to revive this project? Michael Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and director of policy analysis at the Middle East Forum, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why it's time to refocus on IMEEC, and how Greece and Cyprus have the potential to be crucial lynchpins in this project.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:For India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor to succeed, Delhi must invest more in Greece and CyprusRiver diversions to end Attica drought riskMerz backs Turkey's EU bid despite strains over Gaza, rightsTurkey and Germany must focus on joint defence projects, Erdogan says

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer just called Turkey's purchase of 20 Eurofighter jets - a deal that has gotten a lot of attention - a “landmark moment.” This move comes as Turkey looks to fill gaps in its aging air-force, and as Ankara attempts to make up ground with countries like Greece and Israel.  Ryan Gingeras, a professor in the Department of National Security Affairs at the Naval Postgraduate School and an expert on Turkish, Balkan, and Middle East history, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down what Turkey is actually getting in this deal, and what it means for the region.The views expressed by Professor Gingeras in this interview do not reflect the views of the US government.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:UK signs £8bn Typhoon fighter jet deal with TurkeyTurkey signs deal to buy 20 Eurofighters from Britain for 8 bln poundsWar memorial under 24-hour police guardSchools close and island life is under threat as Greece reckons with low birth rates

Energy has become a critical piece of the puzzle for the Trump administration as it looks to project strength abroad, and it seems Greece is on Washington's radar. Richard Goldberg, a senior advisor at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and director of its newly established Energy and National Security Program, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at America's quest for energy dominance and the potential for deeper cooperation on this front with Greece and other countries in the Eastern Mediterranean. 

As we've seen time and time again in the past, the Greek diaspora has always played a key role in standing with Greece in its time of need. World War II was no exception. As Greeks delivered their famous “Ohi” - or “NO” to the Axis powers on October 28th, 1940, Greek-Americans also stepped up to the plate. Professor Alexander Kitroeff, a historian and expert on the Greek diaspora, joins Thanos Davelis as we explore how Greek-Americans took action, and how “Ohi” became a turning point for the Greeks in the US.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Parades marking World War II campaign to close streets in Athens, ThessalonikiTurkey signs deal to buy 20 Eurofighters from Britain for 8 bln poundsUK signs £8bn Typhoon fighter jet deal with TurkeyBest year for Cyprus tourism ever

Last week President Trump hit Russia's biggest oil producers - Rosneft and Lukoil - with sanctions, a move many see as a major shift from the Trump administration that puts it on the same page as Europe when it comes to pressuring Moscow. Laurence Norman, the European reporter for The Wall Street Journal, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at this shift from President Trump and break down what it means for Europe and the war in Ukraine.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:U.S. Oil Sanctions Strike at Russia's Economic LifelineThree Years of War in Ukraine: Are Sanctions Against Russia Making a Difference?Burgum highlights Greece's role in reducing Europe's dependence on Russian gasPowering U.S. Energy Dominance with Secretary of the Interior Doug BurgumTurkey court orders arrest of Istanbul's jailed mayor for 'political espionage'

The British Museum has once again stirred controversy with its latest “Pink Ball” dinner gala taking place in the hall housing the Parthenon Sculptures, a move that has elicited strong reactions from both Greece, cultural heritage experts, and leading advocates for the return of the Parthenon Sculptures to Greece. Professor Paul Cartledge, the Vice chairman of the British Committee for the Reunification of the Parthenon Marbles and a renowned scholar of ancient Greek history, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down why the British Museum's glitzy gala only adds to the reunification cause.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece criticizes British Museum dinner among Parthenon SculpturesBritish Museum glitzy gala ball, Janet Suzman agrees with Greece and suggests that the publicity adds to the reunification causeGreek leader pushes EU on joint defense debtGreece acts on housing crunch as shortages pile pressure on government

Earlier this month we saw Turkey issue a NAVTEX, or a navigational text message warning, for research in the Aegean Sea, a provocative move called out by Greece. This has once again put Turkey's disregard for international law and contempt for Greece's sovereignty in the spotlight. Elizabeth Samson, an international lawyer and Writing Fellow at the Middle East Forum whose work has appeared in major outlets like the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal, joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into why it's important to call out Turkey's spurious claims over the Aegean.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Europe and United States Must Deny Turkey's Spurious Claims Over the AegeanGaza reconstruction: Cyprus has a planSenate Foreign Relations Committee extends lifting of Cyprus arms embargo from annual renewal period to 5 year periodBipartisan US push to extend Cyprus defense access

Turkish Cypriots went to the polls in the occupied northern part of Cyprus this weekend, electing a reportedly moderate candidate in Tufan Erhurman. His landslide victory, unseating hard-line incumbent Ersin Tatar, has led to cautious optimism that talks on the reunification of Cyprus could resume. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini's English Edition and Politico's Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down the key takeaways from this election.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkish Cypriots elect moderate leader in crucial policy switchNicosia weighs Turkish-Cypriot leader changeTurkey pressing for Western fighter jets to claw back regional edgeDozens arrested in OPEKEPE subsidy fraud bust across Greece

An issue that's been top of mind in Greece for some time now is the demographic crisis. This isn't unique to Greece, however, as it's a problem most of Europe is also looking for answers to. Jacob Funk Kirkegaard, a Senior Fellow at Bruegel and a non-resident Senior Fellow with the Peterson Institute for International Economics, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at how an aging population is challenging Europe, and why migration remains an important part of the equation. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:The macroeconomic impact of ageing, EU immigration policy and pension expendituresMitsotakis calls for united European defense, energy strategy at MED9 summitErdogan heads to Gulf as Turkey looks to ease energy dependence on Russia

A few big headlines have come out of Brussels recently, including the presentation of the EU's new "Pact for the Mediterranean", its executive body approving a 5-year defense road map that features plans for a “drone wall”, and  the debate about Turkey's participation in the SAFE program. Alexandra Voudouri, Kathimerini's Brussels correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into these developments and what they mean for Greece and Cyprus.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:EU presents new pact to reshape relations with Mediterranean countriesEU scramble for anti-Russia ‘drone wall' hits political, technical hurdlesEuropean Commission Unveils 'Drone Wall' Plans As Part Of 5-Year Defense Road MapWadephul: Turkey ‘must solve its problems in the region'Newfound optimism for resumption of Cyprus talksFM Gerapetritis hopeful for an agreement on Mt Sinai monastery

While celebrating the Gaza ceasefire agreement in Egypt, President Trump made a point to single out Turkey's President Erdogan, thanking him for his role in bringing about this deal. Erdogan is now eager to leverage this praise in order to become a key player in shaping Gaza's future. Can he achieve this? Sinan Ciddi, a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and an expert on Turkish politics, joins Thanos Davelis as we look to answer this question, breaking down Turkey's role in this ceasefire, Erdogan's ambitions in Gaza, and what the Trump administration should be looking out for when dealing with Turkey here.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Erdogan's Turkey Wants to Be a Key Player in Post-war Gaza. It's a FantasyTrump signals new trust in Erdogan, raising concerns over Turkey's ambitions in Gaza and beyondGreece revives Eastern Med forum planControversial labor bill passed by Parliament with government majority

A recent report in the Financial Times has outlined how a state fund in Turkey has become one of the country's largest business holdings, controlling over 1,000 companies. This comes in the wake of an anti-corruption drive that moved hundreds of private companies into government hands, raising the question: Is this asset grab politically-motivated? Wolfango Piccoli, the co-founder of risk analysis company Teneo, joins Thanos Davelis today as we dig into this story.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Crackdown or capital grab? Turkey state fund controls 1,000 businessesGreece reaffirms stance on Turkey's participation in EU SAFE programAthens faces two drone fronts

Greece's government recently tabled its budget for 2026, a budget that foresees a jump in spending, growth for the economy, and a drop in Greece's debt. Yiannis Mouzakis, the co-founder of Macropolis.gr, joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into Greece's budget, looking at some of the positive trends like increased revenue from electronic payments and Greece's declining debt, while breaking down some of the potential challenges Greece still needs to pay attention to.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:State spending to jump €5 bln next yearGovernment budgeting on a late RRF sprintLawmakers in fervent clash over 13-hour workdayIn EU first, Greece set to introduce 13-hour workdayPKK leader Ocalan appeals to Iraqi Kurdistan president for help in Turkey peace talks

It's safe to say President Macron has shown he is one of Europe's most important leaders, but domestic challenges seem to be undercutting him on the global stage. Steven Erlanger, the chief diplomatic correspondent for The New York Times covering Europe, joins Thanos Davelis as we look to answer what this means for Macron and France, but also for Europe, especially as the continent looks to meet challenges ranging from defense spending to Ukraine.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:France's Domestic Instability Has Weakened Its Diplomatic Clout'Now the rebuilding begins,' says Trump as he signs Gaza peace planMitsotakis meets Trump ahead of Gaza summitTrump, Christodoulides discuss Cyprus issue at Gaza summit

World leaders - including Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and President Nikos Christodoulides - are meeting today in Egypt to cement a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, and to help lay the foundations for broader regional stability. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini's English edition, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at why the Greek and Cypriot presence at this summit matters, and break down how Athens and Nicosia can play a stabilizing role here. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece to participate in Gaza peace summit in Egypt, Mitsotakis announcesTrump and el-Sisi to lead Gaza Peace Summit in Egypt; Greece and Cyprus among invited nationsEU wants Turkey to be part of SAFEEU begins gradual rollout of digital border system 

Last month Turkey's President Erdogan and his loyalists blasted Cyprus for its purchase of Israeli Barak MX air defense systems, claiming it was a threat to Turkey, all while Turkish media has announced Ankara plans to send more occupation troops to Cyprus. William Doran, the co-author of the recent piece in Kathimerini titled “Erdogan's imagined ‘arms race' in Cyprus”, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at Erdogan's hypocritical outrage here, and break down why Cyprus' decision to upgrade its air defense systems in fact strengthens Eastern Mediterranean security.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Erdogan's imagined ‘arms race' in CyprusGreece hails ‘historic agreement' over GazaTurkey emerges as key player in Gaza ceasefire dealThird-country buyers grab Cyprus realtyCy

The latest European data shows that Greeks are working many more hours than their European counterparts, with one in five Greeks working more than 45 hours a week. This data comes amid wider discussions about productivity in Greece's economy, developments in AI, and recent moves by the government to introduce a 6 day workweek and a 13-hour work day. Nikos Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author, joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into this story.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greeks work the longest in EUGeneral strike against 13-hour work day brings Greece to a haltGreece's new 6-day workweek law takes effect, bucking a trendGreece's success ‘an example' for GermanyAthens watching Turkey moves for signs of aggression

Two years ago, on October 7th, the Middle East was upended after Hamas' deadly attack against Israel. This had a clear ripple effect across the Eastern Mediterranean as well, impacting Greece and Cyprus. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini's diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at the monumental shifts ushered in two years ago on October 7, and where they leave Greece and Cyprus today. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:PM: Greece ready to support diplomatic efforts for peace in GazaDéjà Vu or a Peace Breakthrough in Gaza?Erdogan hopes for resolution on sanctions, F-35s, Halkbank after Trump talksTurkey floated $100 million Halkbank settlement idea at White House last month, sources saySYRIZA MPs ready to follow ex-leader

The headline political news coming out of Greece this week is former Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras' resignation as a SYRIZA MP, a move that has many wondering if it's only a matter of time before Tsipras announces a new party. The news also comes as polls and surveys show a lack of confidence among voters in the political system. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at whether Tsipras is angling for a comeback and what impact this could have on Greece's political scene.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Tsipras quits as MP; new party ahead?Greeks crying out for political change but doubt it will happen, poll findsGreece Forecasts Debt Ratio for 2025 to Reach Pre-Bailout Low

Recent reports, primarily in Bloomberg, indicate that Turkey anticipates a settlement to the Halkbank issue that would allow the bank - indicted in 2019 for conspiracy to evade US sanctions on Iran to the tune of tens of billions of dollars - to avoid a protracted legal fight and pay what it called a “manageable” fine. Thanos Davelis digs into this story with Jonathan Schanzer, the Executive Director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, as we look at the message such a settlement would send to others around the world about the seriousness of US sanctions.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkey Anticipates Manageable Fine to Settle Halkbank-US DisputePM: Greece ready to support diplomatic efforts for peace in GazaFormer PM Tsipras resigns as MP, pledges continued political activism

Kimberley Guilfoyle, the first woman to serve as US ambassador to Greece, was sworn in this week, and is expected in Athens soon. With the US-Greece relationship at historic heights, Ambassador Guilfoyle is now in a position to take it a step further. Endy Zemenides, HALC's Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at both the opportunities and the potential pitfalls that Ambassador Guilfoyle needs to be aware of as she looks to add her mark to the bilateral relationship.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:New US ambassador to Greece sworn inEndy Zemenides on X: Promises and pitfalls Ambassador Guilfoyle needs to be wary ofEU subsidy fraud isn't just a Greek problem, it's everywhere, warns top prosecutorGeneral strike against 13-hour work day brings Greece to a halt

US officials and lawmakers seem to be increasingly concerned about China's global network of ports, including Greece's port of Piraeus, and reports indicate the Trump administration is on a mission to weaken Beijing's hand here. Dr. Elizabeth Economy, an acclaimed author and expert on Chinese domestic and foreign policy and a former senior advisor for China in the Department of Commerce, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into this dimension of the US-China power struggle, breaking down what it means for Greece and the Eastern Mediterranean.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:U.S. targets China's grip on global ports in sweeping maritime missionUS monitoring Piraeus PortGov't unveils ‘bold' military overhaulUS committed to bizonal, bicommunal federation in Cyprus