Podcasts about east med

Reports that Eastern Libya's parliament is considering endorsing the 2019 maritime agreement between Turkey and the Tripoli-based government in Libya that attempted to split the eastern Mediterranean between the two - and at the expense of neighboring countries - is sounding the alarm in Greece and Egypt. Sean Mathews, a journalist for the Middle East Eye covering the Middle East, North Africa and the Balkans, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at why the Turkey-Libya deal is back in the headlines, and examine what a decision to endorse it in eastern Libya would mean for Greece, Egypt, and the East Med.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Exclusive: Greece to lobby Egypt against Haftar endorsing Turkey-Libya maritime dealEU warns Greece over lack of water strategyAthens, Cairo back at the table over ancient monastery status

From the “Vertical Gas Corridor” to projects in the Eastern Mediterranean, Greece is stepping up its efforts on the energy front. This is placing it at the heart of exciting new developments that will link the East Med with Central Europe and even Ukraine, while drawing the attention of US energy giants like Exxon Mobil and Chevron. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini's English Edition, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down some of the latest developments on the energy front, and look at what they mean for Greece and its partners in the region.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece on the regional energy mapGreece an ‘ideal connector' in the IMEC corridorGas to flow from Greece to Slovakia, UkraineGreek delegation heads to Egypt amid controversy Ankara eyeing Aegean in new exercise

There's a new bipartisan bill - the Eastern Mediterranean Gateway Act - that's once again putting the spotlight on Greece, Cyprus, Israel, and their potential roles in IMEC, a project increasingly seen as the answer to China's Belt and Road Initiative. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of HALC, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why this new legislation matters, look at how the East Med can play a unique role as the West turns toward addressing the challenges posed by China, and explore how Greece and Cyprus fit into this story.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Initiative in US Congress seeks to establish EastMed as strategic hub within IMEC frameworkTurkey is not acting like a US ally, say AJC and HALC chiefsDesalination units arrive in CyprusIndia eyes strategic push in Greece

Since President Trump stepped back into office, and amid escalating competition with China, it looks like one project we've been hearing more and more about is the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor - or IMEC. This is reflected in comments from President Trump, in diplomatic moves we're seeing in the wider region from Greece to India, and most recently in Congress, where a new legislative initiative is looking to establish the East Med as a strategic hub within the framework of IMEC. George Dikaios, who has been tracking developments related to IMEC, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into why this project is significant and what it could mean for Greece.George Dikaios is an adjunct lecturer and a researcher at the Department of Ports Management and Shipping at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and a Senior Research Fellow at the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP).You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Connecting Opportunities: Greece's Strategic Role in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic CorridorKurdish group PKK says it is laying down arms and disbandingKurdish Insurgent Group Says It Is Ending Conflict With Turkish StateItaly commits €360 mln to Greek trains

As countries in the Eastern Mediterranean - particularly Greece, Cyprus, and Israel - deepen their ties, they are also faced with the challenges posed by malign actors across the region. This includes countries like Russia, Iran, and Turkey, but also non-state actors like Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis in the Red Sea. Jonathan Spyer, director of research at the Middle East Forum and a contributor to the Jerusalem Post, the Wall Street Journal and The Australian, joins Thanos Davelis as we explore these security challenges and look at how East Med countries can work together to address them.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:No One Should Be Surprised About the Syrian MassacresTurkey, Israel have begun talks to avoid clashes in Syria, sources sayHigh-stakes poker over energy linkPM: ‘A trade war only produces losers'

Since the discovery of natural gas almost 15 years ago in the Eastern Mediterranean, we've seen this region come together in unexpected ways. Ties have expanded beyond Greece, Cyprus and Israel to include a number of Middle East countries, the US, and the EU, and have moved well beyond energy into the security realm as well. Michael Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, and Gregg Roman, executive director of the Middle East Forum, join Thanos Davelis to look at how East Med diplomacy is transforming the security landscape of the region.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Trump reacts to Mitsotakis interview: ‘I appreciate his comments'Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis: Europe Can Find ‘Win-Win Solution' with President Trump on Trade that Is ‘Mutually Beneficial'‘No room for complacency' in wildfire strategy

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

As we approach President-elect Trump's inauguration, many are trying to discern how both the incoming Trump administration and the new Congress that was just sworn in will deal with key foreign policy questions that will undoubtedly impact Greece and Cyprus. Endy Zemenides, HALC's Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what to expect from the new Congress on the East Med, what to look out for as President-elect Trump looks to get his cabinet confirmed, and more.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:The Next CongressTrump Imagines New Sphere of U.S. Influence Stretching from Panama to GreenlandThe Political Logic of Trump's International ThreatsEurope's power price divide hits southeastern economiesTurkey's naval build-up has Hellenic Navy considering the purchase of more ships

This week President-elect Donald Trump unveiled his picks for a number of positions that will have a direct impact on US diplomacy and national security - including his nominations of Senator Marco Rubio for Secretary of State and Representative Michael Waltz for National Security Adviser. As Trump's national security team takes shape, Jonathan Schanzer, the senior vice president for research at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, and Endy Zemenides, Executive Director of HALC, join Thanos Davelis to break down what message these nominations send about the foreign policy priorities of a second Trump administration, especially when looking at the Eastern Mediterranean.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:President-elect Trump nominates Marco Rubio for secretary of stateNational security picks signal direction of Trump's foreign policy plansTrump builds out national security team with picks of Hegseth for Pentagon, Noem for DHSTulsi Gabbard Questioned U.S. Intelligence. Now She Is Trump's Pick for Top Intelligence Role.Army reboot: Smaller, smarter, strongerTurkey deploys warships over misunderstanding

This week Greece hosted members of the East Med Gas Forum in Athens, where the focus was on existing and future gas projects in the region, the East Med's importance when addressing concerns over energy security in the broader region, decarbonization, and the green transition. Kostis Geropoulos, the co-founder and director of Energy and Climate Policy and Security at NE Global Media, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the East Med Gas Forum's meeting in Greece and look at the initiatives countries in the region are spearheading.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:East Med Gas Forum in AthensΘ. Σκυλακάκης: «Κλειδί» οι συνεργασίες στην Αν. Μεσόγειο για την ενεργειακή μετάβασηPolls find ND leading SYRIZA by over 15 points ahead of European electionsFar-right parties expected to surpass EPP in European Parliament, polls suggestGreece denies report on migrant resettlement deal with the US

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

Henry Kissinger, the controversial former US National Security Advisor and Secretary of State, passed away on Wednesday, aged 100. He was both celebrated and reviled, receiving the Nobel Peace Prize while being roundly condemned by many as a war criminal. The regions and conflicts that Kissinger intervened in, leaving a dark legacy, include Cyprus, where the former Secretary of State normalized US appeasement of Turkey almost a half-century ago when he secretly backed Turkey's invasion of the island. Michael Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and former Pentagon official, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss Kissinger's legacy, particularly in Cyprus and the Eastern Mediterranean, and look at the lessons it holds for policymakers today.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Henry Kissinger: Divisive diplomat who shaped world affairsHenry Kissinger's Inflated ReputationHenry Kissinger Should Apologize for Serving Turkish ImperialismHenry Kissinger's long history of appeasing dictatorshipsErdogan wants ‘new page' with AthensUS ‘profoundly' worried over Turkey's financial links to Hamas

Ο καθηγητής Διεθνών Σχέσεων, ειδικός σε θέματα Μέσης Ανατολής, Σωτήρης Ρούσσος εκτιμά ότι ο μόνος τρόπος για να σταματήσει η διαλεκτική της βίας, όπως λέει, ή ο φαύλος κύκλος της βίας είναι να πιέσουν οι ΗΠΑ το Ισραήλ να δεχθεί την λύση των δύο κρατών και τα αραβικά κράτη να πιέσουν τις Παλαιστινιακές οργανώσεις να καθίσουν στο τραπέζι των διαπραγματεύσεων.  Η όποια αμφισβήτηση της κυβέρνησης Νετανιάχου που υπήρξε το προηγούμενο διάστημα με τις κινητοποιήσεις και τις διαμαρτυρίες εναντίον της, υποστηρίζει ότι αυτή δεν αποτυπώνεται ως τέτοια στις εκλογές με κανέναν τρόπο, καθώς οι διαμαρτυρόμενοι είναι συνήθως από τα αριστερά κόμματα που κινούνται γύρω στο 10%.  Οσο για τον ρόλο της Ελλάδας, εκτιμά ότι αυτός πρέπει να είναι πιο ενεργός και πολιτικός και υπάρχουν πολλά περιθώρια για μεσολάβηση.  «Με το Ισραήλ έχουμε στενή συνεργασία, αλλά όχι συμμαχία» λέει. «Συμμαχία έχουμε με την Γαλλία. Οταν οι ΗΠΑ έβαλαν στο ράφι τον East Med, το Ισραήλ δεν αντέδρασε». 

On Monday the Biden's administration notified Congress of the planned sale to Turkey of avionics software upgrades for its current fleet of F-16 fighter aircraft, a deal valued at up to $259 million. The deal, which would mark the first military equipment sale to Turkey in years, moved ahead after leaders of U.S. congressional committees gave informal approval. Petros Kasfikis, the Washington DC correspondent for the Athens News Agency and Mega TV, joins Thanos Davelis to break down the details of this deal, what it means for the potential sale of F-16s to Turkey, and explore whether this signals a shift in Washington when it comes to Ankara.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:US sets $259 million F-16 equipment sale to TurkeyEffort to halt Turkey's patenting ‘Turkaegean'Chevron seeks drilling ship to expand East Med gas search

In this episode of “FES Cyprus Podcast – Beyond the Divide”, the director of the office, Prof. Hubert Faustmann hosts Vasiliki Triga, Assoc. Prof. of the Department of Communication and Internet Studies at the Cyprus University of Technology. They analyse Presidential Elections in the Republic of Cyprus in February 2023. The conversation also touches upon the main topics of the campaign such as corruption, inflation, immigration, gender equality and the Cyprus Problem.

Leading experts, analysts, and elected officials put the spotlight on Greece and the region in Washington, DC this week, as HALC, the Delphi Economic Forum, and Kathimerini hosted the 4th Southeast Europe and East Med conference. Endy Zemenides, HALC's Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how this conference has grown over the years to play a key role in setting the agenda on the East Med and look at the message sent by the US foreign policy establishment. We also discuss key news coming out of the conference, including what to expect from the new leadership in the Hellenic caucus and the Congressional Hellenic Israel Alliance, and Senator Menendez's announcement that he had signed off on the sale of F-35s to Greece.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Menendez okays F-35 sale to GreeceBattle of former diplomats in Cyprus' presidential electionEU vows more cash for frontier policing as border fence debate revives

Last week news dropped that the Biden administration reportedly will ask Congress to approve a $20 billion sale of F-16s to Turkey, coupled with a separate sale of F-35 fighters to Greece. The sale of F-16s was also the focus of Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu's meeting with Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington on Wednesday. Expert Michael Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and former Pentagon official, joins Thanos Davelis to explain why the White House is only half right here. Rubin argues that Congress should go ahead with the F-35 sale to Greece, but Turkey still does not deserve new F-16s. Read Michael Rubin's latest here:Biden is half right on Eastern Mediterranean arms salesTürkiye Is Not An Important NATO Member. Stop Pretending It Is.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkey urges Biden administration to be 'decisive' over F-16 deal as Congress objectsF-16, F-35 bidding starts amid election periodEconomic resilience and risks for Greece

Türkiye'nin enerjide merkez olma hedefi, enerjide birçok değişikliği de beraberinde getirecektir. Enerjide merkez ülke olmak, Türkiye'nin bölge ülkeleri ile arasındaki işbirliklerini tamamen değiştireceği gibi Türkiye'ye siyasi ve ekonomik olarak önemli avantajları sunma potansiyeli bulunmaktadır. ENERJİ MERKEZİ OLMANIN AVANTAJLARI Enerji kaynaklarına sahip olan ülkeler ile enerjiyi en fazla tüketen ülkeler arasında olması nedeniyle, enerjide merkez ülke olma hedefi Türkiye'yi stratejik enerji yatırımları açısından önemli bir ülke konumuna getirecektir. Enerjide merkez olmak, özellikle doğalgazın Türkiye'de toplanması ve Türkiye üzerinden Avrupa ülkelerine transfer olması anlamına gelecektir. Bu ticarette ve transferde öncü ülke olması, Türkiye için ekonomik ve siyasi olarak önemli bir avantaj demektir. Rusya-Ukrayna savaşının başlamasıyla beraber Türkiye'nin iki ülke arasındaki rolü dolayısıyla bir çok Avrupa ülkesinin Türkiye ile başlayan diplomasi trafiği bunun öncü göstergesi oldu. Türkiye'nin enerjide merkez ülke olması Avrupa'ya doğalgaz satmak isteyen bir çok ülkenin Türkiye koridorunu kullanmasını doğuracaktır. Bu da en yüksek doğalgaz rezervlere sahip olan birçok ülkenin Türkiye ile doğalgaz ticareti yapmasına, bu ülkeler ile yeni yatırımların ve yeni doğalgaz projelerin hayata geçirilmesinin yolunu açacaktır. Bu da açıkçası yeni doğalgaz boru hatları anlamına gelecektir. Türkiye'nin enerjide merkez olması durumunda büyük potansiyeli olan Doğu Akdeniz'de Türkiye'siz oluşturulmak istenilen enerji denklemlerini gündemden düşürecektir. Doğu Akdeniz gazı için planlanan East-Med boru hattı projesinin tamamen ortadan kalkmasına neden olacaktır. Mevcut durumda Doğu Akdeniz'de var olan siyasi birlikteliklerin, oluşturulan platformların ve işbirliklerin sona ermesine ve Türkiye'yi merkeze alan yeni işbirliklerin önünü açacağından şüphe yoktur. Türkiye, Rusya doğalgazının Avrupa'ya taşınmasında öncü olabileceği gibi Doğu Akdeniz'de de öncü ülke olacaktır. Bu nedenle, Türkiye'nin enerjide merkez olması AB-Türkiye ilişkileri açısından da kritik bir hamle olacaktır. MERKEZ ÜLKE OLMANIN EKONOMİK FAYDALARI Enerjide merkez ülke olmanın, enerjide dışarıya bağımlı olan Türkiye'ye ekonomik olarak da önemli kazanımları olacaktır. Şöyle ki; Enerji ithalatı için ödenen miktarına azaltılmasında, son dönemlerde artan enerji fiyatlarının dünya ekonomisinde yaptığı tahribat göz önünde bulundurduğumuzda fiyat artışların önlenmesinde, ekonomik büyümenin sürdürülebilir hale gelmesinde cari açığın azaltılmasında ve enerji arz güvenliğinin sağlanmasında enerjide merkez ülke olmanın önemli avantajları olarak öne çıkmaktadır. Yüz yıl sonra ancak gelebilecek olan bu fırsatın kullanılmasının, Türkiye ekonomisi ve Türkiye'nin siyasi gücü için önemli bir stratejik hamle olacağı açıktır.

This week it was announced that Italy's ENI and France's Total are expediting plans to develop hydrocarbons off the coast of Cyprus following the discovery of another natural gas field, Zeus-1. This newest discovery “reaffirms the promising potential” of the East Med at a time when Europe is looking for alternatives to Russian gas. At the same time, Nicosia is also considering a proposal for a pipeline that would bring natural gas from Israel to Cyprus. Dr. Theodoros Tsakiris, an Associate Professor for Geopolitics and Energy Policy at the University of Nicosia, joins Thanos Davelis to explain why these latest developments are significant, and look at what they mean for Cyprus's role in the energy puzzle of the Eastern Mediterranean.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Eni, Total announce sizeable new gas discovery off CyprusCyprus: Plant to process Israeli gas for export an optionGreece to double subsidy on energy bills to 840 mln euros in JanuaryTurkey says Sweden 'not even halfway' to NATO candidacyTurkey: Sweden still has requirements to meet to join NATO 

Turkey's President Erdogan and Russia's President Putin met this week in Kazakhstan, where Putin floated a proposal to turn Turkey into an energy hub that could feed Europe with Russian gas. On Friday, Erdogan gave the project the green light, saying that Turkey and Russia had instructed their respective energy authorities to immediately begin technical work on Putin's proposal. This proposal raises concerns that Turkey will become even more dependent on Russia. Expert Sinan Ciddi joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this latest proposal to turn Turkey into an energy hub for Russian gas to Europe, look into why Erdogan and Putin - who have met a few times since Russia's invasion of Ukraine - seem to need each other, and break down how this is viewed in Washington, DC. 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:‘No waiting': Turkey, Russia to act on Putin's gas hub offerWhy Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan need each otherEU official: East Med gas can wean bloc off Russian energyTurkey: new ‘disinformation' law could jail journalists for three yearsTurkey passes ‘disinformation bill' ahead of elections

This week Turkey announced that its research ship, the Oruc Reis, is going to make a return to the Eastern Mediterranean to carry out exploratory research for natural gas and oil. Turkey didn't specify the exact location, but the Oruc Reis was deployed in 2020 to conduct surveys in what Greece claims as its exclusive economic zone, leading to a summer of tensions. Greece and Cyprus are following developments closely, looking out for any moves that could cause tension in the region to spike even further. At the same time, Turkey has stepped up both its aggressive rhetoric and its illegal overflights in the Aegean in recent weeks, prompting concerns that Ankara is laying the groundwork for a potential crisis in the build up to elections next year. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini's diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest analysis from Athens.Read the latest from Vassilis Nedos in Kathimerini here: Turkish research ship may be preparing for activities in the East Med, reports sayAnkara locks attention on two isletsOruc Reis to make return to East MedYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here: Greece to give energy savers bigger power bill subsidiesGreece extends energy bill subsidies ahead of 'winter battle'EU raps Turkey for discrimination against Greek minority

A Pennsylvania race for the US Senate is attracting more and more attention as Dr. Mehmet Oz's ties to Turkey come under the radar. The Republican candidate and former TV personality has come under scrutiny not only for his financial ties to the Turkish government, but also his proximity to the Turkish Diyanet, lobbyists, businessmen, and politicians beholden to the Erdogan regime in Ankara. These ties, and the fact that Oz has yet to address these concerns head on, were also the focus of a recent video that went viral on Twitter. Benjamin Baird and Cliff Smith join Thanos Davelis to shed light on Oz's financial and political ties to Turkey, breaking down why these connections cast doubts on his suitability for office.Benjamin Baird and Cliff Smith are the director of the Islamism in Politics project and director of the Washington Project, respectively, at the Middle East Forum.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Behind Dr. Oz's CurtainBenjamin Baird on Turkey's Malign Influence Network in AmericaErdogan, the Diyanet, and its Field Office near DCTurkey ‘vows' to continue East Med gas explorationIn latest outburst, Turkish defense minister accuses Greece of deceitTurkish Parliament Speaker calls Greece a national threatGreece receives French president's backing over Turkey

A new report by an international group of scientists is sounding the alarm for the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East, warning that this region and its inhabitants are especially at risk from the threats posed by a warming planet and changing climate. As this report points out, this region is warming almost twice as fast as the global average. The report aims to underscore the impact of climate change in the region ahead of the United Nations climate summit in Egypt this November. Dr George Zittis, a co-author of the report, joins me to break down why the Eastern Mediterranean is so vulnerable, what's at stake if no action is taken, and what steps governments in the region can take to address these challenges.Read the report Dr. George Zittis co-authored here: Climate Change and Weather Extremes in the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle EastYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here: East Med especially at risk as world heats up, report warnsExclusive: Greece to repay euro zone bailout loans early for first timeHousing, energy, pensions to take TIF center stage

A new natural gas discovery off Cyprus' southern coast that's estimated to contain around 2.5 trillion cubic feet of the hydrocarbon has observers debating whether this can unlock additional potential for the East Med and provide further gas supplies to Europe as the continent grapples with an energy crisis. The discovery was made at the Cronos-1 well in the Cypriot EEZ by partners Eni of Italy and France's Total. Dr. Theodoros Tsakiris joins Thanos Davelis to break down the importance of this discovery both for Cyprus and the region.Dr. Theodoros Tsakiris is associate professor of geopolitics and energy policy at the University of Nicosia in Cyprus.Read Theodoros Tsakiris' latest op-ed in Kathimerini: The importance of Cronos-1 to CyprusYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here: Greek PM defends workings of intelligence serviceAkar issues fresh threats against GreeceTurkey VP doubles down on threatening rhetoricDendias slams Turkey's ‘imperialistic attitudes'

Endy Zemenides, HALC's Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss a number of developments - from the East Med to the halls of Congress. We look at a story unfolding that indicates that Cyprus has reportedly secured a deal to procure Israel's cutting-edge Iron Dome air defense system, the latest reaction from a bipartisan group of US lawmakers to reports that Turkey is moving forward with another acquisition of Russian-S400 missiles and what this means for the #NoJetsForTurkey campaign, the latest viral campaign led by HALC and ANCA to shed light on US Senate candidate Dr. Mehmet Oz's connections to Turkey, and the wire-tapping scandal in Greece that is dominating Greek headlines.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here: Cyprus goes light on Israel's Iron DomeGreek wiretap cases turn up heat on MitsotakisThe wiretapping case and Greece's image abroadGovernment to go on offensive over wiretappingPappas Raises Alarm on Sale of Russian S-400s, U.S. F-16s to TurkeyTurkey Says Won't Buy F-16s From US If Conditions Imposed on UseWould Turkey's president have leverage over ‘Senator Doctor Oz'?Finland and Sweden hold talks with Turkey to push Nato bid

Comment s'émanciper de la dépendance au gaz et au pétrole russe, tout en s'orientant vers des énergies propres, promises dans le pacte vert européen ?  A priori, les deux objectifs sont compatibles, mais l'urgence rend ce virage très difficile à négocier... Les découvertes d'importants gisements de gaz en mer Méditerranée pourraient-elles constituer une solution ? Le projet de gazoduc East Med, évoqué en 2020, est pour l'instant au point mort… Et ce n'est peut-être pas la guerre en Ukraine qui va lui redonner un sens. C'est le reportage à Athènes de notre correspondant Joël Bronner. Et on pourrait croire que la situation énergétique en Pologne est intenable, surtout depuis que le géant russe Gazprom a annoncé la fin de ses livraisons à Varsovie. Le Premier ministre avait alors parlé d'une attaque directe sur la Pologne en réponse aux sanctions imposées. En réalité, le pays se prépare depuis des années à diversifier ses fournisseurs. À Varsovie, Sarah Bakaloglou. On l'appelle l'exception ibérique. L'Espagne et le Portugal ont obtenu des 27 pays européens un plafonnement du prix du gaz qui sert à produire de l'électricité. Seule manière d'empêcher une dérive du prix de l'électricité pour les consommateurs. À Lisbonne, les explications de Marie-Line Darcy.   Les traumatismes du Covid On en apprend tous les jours un peu plus sur les effets à long terme du Covid-19... Le Covid long, mais aussi l'impact psychologique provoqué par les confinements, les interdictions de sortie, le port du masque et tous les autres impératifs sanitaires. Les plus petits n'ont pas été épargnés, bien au contraire. En Autriche, une équipe de psychologues a mené l'enquête dans le Tyrol et conclu qu'un quart des jeunes enfants souffrent de troubles psychologiques inquiétants. À Vienne, Céline Béal.  C'est votre Europe d'Alice Rouja Période de stress également pour tous les étudiants européens qui planchent sur leurs examens de fin d'année. En France, les lycéens ont attaqué hier leurs épreuves de spécialité, grande nouveauté de la réforme du baccalauréat. Après deux années hors normes pour cause de Covid, avec beaucoup d'examens annulés, où en est le moral des troupes ?   (Rediffusion du 12 mai 2022)

On Wednesday Turkey announced that its fourth drill ship, the Abdülhamid Han, will launch operations in the Eastern Mediterranean in August, raising the prospect of heightened tensions with Greece and Cyprus. In the meantime, Greece's Defense Minister traveled to the United States this week, where he raised the issue of Turkey's revisionism in the Aegean, and took important steps to bring Greece closer to acquiring F-35 jets. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini's diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what's at stake as Turkey prepares to launch new drilling operations in the region, and break down the key takeaways from the Greek Defense Minister's visit to the US. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkey to drill in Eastern Mediterranean next monthAustin to contact Turkey's Akar about AegeanIraq accuses Turkey of attack that killed nine in KurdistanTurkish Warplanes Strike Iraq Resort, Killing at Least 8, Officials SayGreece opposes EU plan to cut gas use, plans power cuts in emergencyPreparing for the worst-case scenario

Last week the EU finalized a natural gas agreement with Israel and Egypt, building on what's been a busy month when it comes to energy in the Eastern Mediterranean. These agreements further showcase how the region can be a game-changer in reducing the dependence of America's European allies on Russian energy. At the same time, however, we're seeing state and non-state actors in the region - from Turkey to Hezbollah - escalate tensions, putting these developments at risk.  Jonathan Ruhe, the Director of Foreign Policy at The Jewish Institute for National Security of America (JINSA), joins Thanos Davelis to break down these recent developments, and argue that it's time for the US to reverse its hands-off approach to the Eastern Mediterranean.Read JINSA's national security briefing here: U.S. Leadership Needed on East Med EnergyYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Western Balkans leaders fume after summit fails to unblock EU bidsBalkan membership hopefuls leave EU summit empty handedBulgarian government ousted in blow to EU enlargement hopesMore upgrades foreseen for Souda Bay

In this interview, Mr. Vokos describes how the Posidonia exhibition has evolved to what it is today, from the 1960s, and also gives us an overview of this year's Posidonia which is set to reach the maximum number of participations, since the beginning of the exhibition. We discuss the perspective of the Shipping Industry development in Greece, the unchanged love of the Greek shipowners for everything Greek, their admission to wanting Greece to be the most advanced shipowner country, while keeping the Greek character of the Shipping Management and offering jobs to as many Greeks as possible. As he tells us in his interview, “Timing” remains a key feature for the shipowners, which one would dare to say is passed on from generation to generation, making Greeks open new successful paths in the global Shipping Industry. In regards to the future of Posidonia, Mr. Vokos predicts that in the coming years, the uniqueness of Posidonia will become the Totem of the shipping exhibitionsTheodoros Vokos, Managing Director, Posidonia Exhibitions SATheodoros Vokos joined Posidonia Exhibitions S.A. in 2003 and is the company's Managing Director since 2017. He is responsible for the international shipping exhibition Posidonia and launched the Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum in 2011, which has become the most important event for the Sea Tourism industry in the East Med region.Mr. Vokos holds an M.A. in International Relations & European Studies from the University of Kent at Canterbury and a Bachelor's in Business Administration from the Athens University of Economics and Business. Prior to joining Posidonia Exhibitions he served as a Special Advisor to the Secretary General for Industry at the Ministry of Development and as the Public Relations Manager at Unisystems SA Information Technology. Mr. Vokos was a member of the team that launched the “Panorama of Entrepreneurship and Career Development” exhibition and conference in 2008, at Zappeion Megaron, in cooperation with the Athens University of Economics and Business (AUEB). He speaks Greek, German and English.

Comment s'émanciper de la dépendance au gaz et au pétrole russe, tout en s'orientant vers des énergies propres, promises dans le pacte vert européen ?  A priori, les deux objectifs sont compatibles, mais l'urgence rend ce virage très difficile à négocier... Les découvertes d'importants gisements de gaz en mer Méditerranée pourraient-elles constituer une solution ? Le projet de gazoduc East Med, évoqué en 2020, est pour l'instant au point mort… et ce n'est peut-être pas la guerre en Ukraine qui va lui redonner un sens. C'est le reportage à Athènes de notre correspondant Joël Bronner. Et on pourrait croire que la situation énergétique en Pologne est intenable surtout depuis que le géant russe Gazprom a annoncé la fin de ses livraisons à Varsovie. Le Premier ministre avait alors parlé d'une attaque directe sur la Pologne en réponse aux sanctions imposées. En réalité, le pays se prépare depuis des années à diversifier ses fournisseurs. À Varsovie, Sarah Bakaloglou. On l'appelle l'exception ibérique.  L'Espagne et le Portugal ont obtenu des 27 pays européens un plafonnement du prix du gaz qui sert à produire de l'électricité. Seule manière d'empêcher une dérive du prix de l'électricité pour les consommateurs. À Lisbonne, les explications de Marie-line Darcy.   Les traumatismes du Covid On en apprend tous les jours un peu plus sur les effets à long terme du Covid-19... Le Covid long, mais aussi l'impact psychologique provoqué par les confinements, les interdictions de sortie, le port du masque et tous les autres impératifs sanitaires. Les plus petits n'ont pas été épargnés bien au contraire. En Autriche, une équipe de psychologues a mené l'enquête dans le Tyrol et conclu qu'un quart des jeunes enfants souffrent de troubles psychologiques inquiétants. À Vienne, Céline Béal.  C'est votre Europe d'Alice Rouja Période de stress également pour tous les étudiants européens qui planchent sur leurs examens de fin d'année. En France, les lycéens ont attaqué hier leurs épreuves de spécialité, grande nouveauté de la réforme du baccalauréat. Après deux années hors normes pour cause de Covid, avec beaucoup d'examens annulés, où en est le moral des troupes ?  

Europe faces unprecedented challenges in the wake of Putin's invasion of Ukraine, with the continent's reliance on Russian energy in the spotlight. As a result, the EU is on a mission to cut Russian gas use and find alternative sources of energy to meet its needs. This is inevitably turning attention back to the Eastern Mediterranean and the EastMed Gas Pipeline, despite the US non-paper pulling support for the pipeline. Dr. Yannis Maniatis joins our host Thanos Davelis to explain why now is the time to re-evaluate the role that energy from the Eastern Mediterranean - with a focus on the EastMed gas pipeline - can play in breaking Europe's dependence on Russia. We also look at what this means for Greece, which is poised to play a central role in bringing Eastern Mediterranean gas to Europe. Dr. Yannis Maniatis is an Associate Professor at the University of Piraeus. He previously served as Greece's Minister of Environment, Energy and Climate Change from 2013-2015. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greek foreign minister wants to lead humanitarian aid mission to MariupolUkraine thwarts Russian advances; fight rages for MariupolEU leaders to agree to jointly buy gas, LNG this year

The US government's non-paper on the EastMed Gas Pipeline is back in the headlines after Representatives Bilirakis and Malliotakis sent a letter to the State Department in which they pushed back against the Biden administration's shift in policy on the EastMed Gas Pipeline. The two members of Congress said that in canceling the project the State Department “has unilaterally taken [energy] options off the table,” and have requested an in-person briefing on the issue. Julie Fishman Rayman, the American Jewish Committee's (AJC) Director of Political Outreach, joins The Greek Current with the latest take on the reactions from Congress to the State Department's non-paper on the East Med pipeline project and the AJC's broader view on developments in the Eastern Mediterranean.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greek American Congressmen demand meeting over East Med pipelineStranded truck drivers pulled from burning Greek ferryFerry fire: Eleven missing as hundreds rescued off CorfuDendias: ‘A conflict in Ukraine would have no winner'

In the second part of the discussion with Dr Kleanthis Kyriakidis (AUE, College of Security and Global studies) we focus on why Russia, China and Iran support the Syrian government and the impact of Russia's, China's and Iran's influence on Syria's existential future (keeping in mind the Romaic and Christian populations in Syria), if Turkey's, China's and Russia's vision of a future, post-civil or post-terrorist war in Syria, is close or aligned, where NATO stands practically against the Sino-Russian alliance, based on the possible scenarios discussed in parts 1 and 2 of the "Russia & China at the East Med and the Middle East" episode, Greece's geopolitical and diplomatic position in the region. Music: "Fortitude" by Lance Conrad Source: Storyblocks --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/panagiota-pimenidou/message

Summarising last Sunday's episode and what is on this Sunday's episode on "Russia & China at the East Med and the Middle East". Music: "Fortitude" by Lance Conrad Source: Storyblocks --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/panagiota-pimenidou/message

In the first part of the episode "Russia & China in the East Med and the Middle East", Dr Kleanthis Kyriakidis (former Captain of the Hellenic Navy, Program Director of the Master of Arts in Diplomacy at the College of Security and Global Studies in the American University of Emirates, Policy Advisor – Negotiator – Public Relations Expert - Political Analyst (focus Middle East)) we discuss: Kremlin taking advantage of its warm relationship with Beijing amidst the US-China competition. Is it wise for the West to enable Russia to hinder China in crucial sectors as in advanced technology? What is the future of the Middle East between a Western-supported Arab league and an Iran supported by China and Russia? At the end of this episode, you will listen to the topics discussed in the second and last part of "Russia & China in the East Med and the Middle East", released next Sunday. Music: "Fortitude" by Lance Conrad Source: Storyblocks --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/panagiota-pimenidou/message

On Tuesday Cypriot Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides will meet with Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the State Department, putting the US-Cyprus relationship in the spotlight. Blinken and Kasoulides will focus on further deepening bilateral relations, the Cyprus problem, energy issues, the 3+1 format, as well as other issues of regional and international interest. Nikos Christodoulides, the former Foreign Minister of the Republic of Cyprus, joins our host Thanos Davelis to discuss the strengthening of the US-Cyprus bilateral relationship over the last years, the importance of Foreign Minister Kasoulides' trip to the US, and East Med energy diplomacy. We also look at what more can be done in the face of Turkish intransigence on Varosha.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Cyprus a ‘reliable' security partner to USCensure motion over storm fails against Greek governmentTurkish president sacks statistics chief as inflation tension escalatesTurkish leader names new statistics chief as inflation rises

Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins The Greek Current to discuss his latest piece in Kathimerini, titled “It's not the pipeline, stupid”, which breaks down the latest controversy over the US “non-paper” on the EastMed gas pipeline. We look at the series of public relations fiascos and laughable explanations from those responsible for the non-paper and parts of the US response, and what steps the State Department can take to fix this problem. Endy Zemenides makes the case that it's time to move the “3+1” to a much higher political level, calling for Secretary of State Antony Blinken's direct engagement. We also look at how the State Department should be handling Turkey, which is looking to dominate, rather than participate in, East Med initiatives.Read Endy Zemenides latest piece in Kathimerini here: It's not the pipeline, stupidYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Bilirakis, Pallone warn against US-Turkey F-16 dealGreek army helps remove vehicles on snow-plagued roadPM acknowledges failures, offers apology in wake of snowstorm

Cyprus is the land of impossible fantasies. One side thinks that the international community is now ready to accept a “two-state solution” in Cyprus, the other tries to play a global chess-game with a non-feasible, unrealistic “East Med Pipeline Project”, something which was doomed to fail from the beginning. In this episode of Nicosia Uncut, […]

In 2021 we saw Turkey slowly work to reduce tensions with a number of its regional rivals, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. While Turkey seems eager to move from active confrontation toward greater stability, its rivals have not all embraced rapprochement with the same zeal as Ankara. The question now remains how far regional dynamics will shift given that many underlying fault lines remain. Expert Nicholas Danforth joins The Greek Current to talk about his latest policy brief for ELIAMEP, the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy, which explores Turkey's efforts over the past year to mend relations with its rivals in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Gulf, and share his thoughts on  what we should expect moving forward. Nicholas Danforth is a Non-Resident Senior Research Fellow at the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy, ELIAMEP, and the author of the newly published “The Remaking of Republican Turkey: Memory and Modernity.”Read Nicholas Danforth's policy brief for ELIAMEP here: New Dynamics, Old Problems: Turkey's Rapprochement Overtures in the Eastern MediterraneanYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece says Turkey distorting historyErdogan says Turkey committed to EU membership, calls for ‘direct' dialogue with GreecePlans for 86,000 new jobs within 2022Greek inflation soars to 5.1% in December

It's been a busy week in Greek diplomacy. It kicked off with Prime Minister Mitsotakis first speaking to Secretary of State Antony Blinken about the US-Greece partnership and developments in the broader region, setting the tone for the Prime Minister's week. A day after this call, on Tuesday, Mitsotakis traveled to Jerusalem where he attended the latest trilateral summit with the leaders of Cyprus and Israel, where energy cooperation was at the forefront of discussions. Finally, Mitsotakis visited Sochi on Wednesday to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin, a meeting that took place against the backdrop of tensions between the West and Russia over the Ukrainian issue. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini's diplomatic and defense editor, joins The Greek Current with the latest analysis on these developments.Read Vassilis Nedos's latest articles for Kathimerini: Energy at forefront of trilateral summitWarm talks amid Cold War climateYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Erdogan says he will follow Turkish rulings on philanthropist KavalaTurkey's Erdogan to Ignore European Rulings on Kavala, DemirtasUS House approves defense funding bill, including Menendez-Rubio amendment

Is there a new momentum for the return of Parthenon Marbles to Greece? That's what Janet Suzman, the chair of the British Committee for the Reunification of the Parthenon Marbles, argued in her latest op-ed for Kathimerini. Her piece came after Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis visited the United Kingdom, where he raised the issue of the Parthenon Marbles in his meeting with Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Despite Johnson's refusal, Greece has vowed to use “every means” in its quest to persuade London to relinquish the Parthenon sculptures, with a campaign that will focus on winning over the hearts and minds of Britons. Janet Suzman joins us on The Greek Current to talk about Prime Minister Mitsotakis' visit to the UK and the momentum it has given the campaign for the return of the Parthenon Marbles.Read Janet Suzman's op-ed in Kathimerini here: New momentum for return of Parthenon MarblesYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Pope Francis returns to Lesbos, Greece and pleads for action on migrant crisisCiting ancient Greeks, Pope Francis laments threats to democracy todayPope condemns treatment of migrants in EuropePope meets the Archbishop of AthensSecretary Blinken's Call with Greek Prime Minister MitsotakisPM heading to Russia: Transport, natural gas, East Med on the agenda

On Friday the northern Greek port city of Alexandroupolis hosted the largest transfer of US military equipment through the port to date as part of the Atlantic Resolve 2021 exercise. US Ambassador Geoffrey Pyatt, who was in Alexandroupoli along with Greek Defense Minister Nikos Panagiotopoulos and other officials, said that the ever-growing volume of military activity at the port city underscores its expanding strategic role and importance for Greece, for the US and the wider region. In another sign of the growing importance that US-Greek relations have acquired, we saw the first delivery of M1117 armored security vehicles from the US to Greece  and Kathimerini reported that the US is planning to invest $33.5 million at Larissa Air Base. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini's diplomatic and defense editor, joins The Greek Current to break down these key developments.Read Vassilis Nedos' latest report in Kathimerini: ​​US to spend $35 mln on Larissa baseYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Upgrade of Alexandroupoli port underscores strategic relationship between Greece and USAmbassador Pyatt's Remarks at Atlantic Resolve Distinguished Visitors DayGreece's Alexandroupolis Hosts “Largest Shipment of US Equipment in History”Cyprus says will continue East Med gas exploration, rebuffs TurkeyPlanned Amazon investment is ‘vote of confidence' in economy, says PMMitsotakis and Amazon Εxecutives Discuss Planned AWS Local Zone Investment

The US role in the Eastern Mediterranean and the partnership between Washington, DC and Athens is the focus of a recent report by JINSA, the Jewish Institute for National Security of America. The report, titled “At the Center of the Crossroads: A New U.S. Strategy for the East Med',' highlights the geopolitical importance of the region for the United States, and calls on Washington to re-envision its presence in the Eastern Mediterranean to better defend its interests and support its regional partners. A large part of the report centers on Greece, with the authors calling on the US to expand its presence in the country in order to address challenges around the Eastern Mediterranean basin. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini's diplomatic and defense editor, joins The Greek Current to talk about this report, which is also the focus of an article he is publishing in Saturday's Kathimerini. You can read the report here: At the Center of the Crossroads: A New U.S. Strategy for the East MedYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece wants dialogue with UK for return of Parthenon sculpturesPM urges return of Parthenon SculpturesWorld powers press for Libya elections but disputes remainMitsotakis: Greece ready to work with new Libyan gov't

The United States and Greece signed an extension of the Mutual Defense Cooperation Agreement (MDCA) on Thursday, renewing their agreement for five years with an understanding that from then onward, it would remain in place indefinitely. The MDCA will boost defense cooperation between the two countries, including further investment in bases operated by the US military in Greece. Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias and US Secretary of State, who signed the agreement, were meeting in Washington for the third round of strategic dialogue between the two NATO allies. Lena Argiri joins The Greek Current with the latest analysis from Washington, DC.Lena Argiri is the DC Correspondent for ERT - the Greek Public Broadcasting Company.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here: Deal with strong US guaranteesAlliances are just part of strategyGreece, US expand defense pact in face of Turkey tensionsTurkey plans military action against Syrian Kurdish YPG if diplomacy failsErdogan threatens fresh military campaign in Syria

Greece sealed an arms deal with France on Tuesday for the purchase of frigates worth about 3 billion euros. The agreement is part of a broader defense and security strategic partnership pact that includes a clause on mutual defense assistance and which French President Emmanuel Macron and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis described as “historic”. The two leaders announced the deal together in Paris, and both made a point to stress that in addition to strengthening cooperation in the region and safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of both countries, the deal is also an important step towards European strategic autonomy. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini's diplomatic and defense editor, joins our host Thanos Davelis to break down this “historic” deal between Greece and France.Read Vassilis Nedos latest piece in Kathimerini English Edition: New power balance in East Med with French frigates, corvettes dealYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here: Greece, France tout European defence autonomy with warships dealFrance inks Greek defense deal after losing sub contractFlake to push Turkey to reject Russian missile defense systemWatch the Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on Jeff Flake's nominationAnastasiades: Creative meeting with Tatar, differences recordedWith lunch invite, UN chief tries to restart Cyprus talks

In this seventh episode of Figure It, Sapienta Economics Director Fiona Mullen discusses recent geopolitical developments in the region with independent analyst Madalina Vicari. How significant is the EU's application to become an observer member of the Eastern Mediterranean Gas Forum (EMFG)? With the Republic of Cyprus will holding the presidency of the EMGF and EMGF-member France holding the EU's rotating presidency of the European Council in the first half of 2022, what can we expect from the EMFG? Will Turkey ever join? Are we heading for a rapprochement between Turkey and various key players in the region? And if so, what does it mean for Cyprus?

Nord Stream II, đông Địa Trung Hải, những đường ống dẫn dầu mới vùng Balkan… thị trường khí đốt châu Âu những tháng đầu năm 2021 bỗng nhiều biến động. Châu Âu cùng lúc đối mặt với nhiều mặt trận cạnh tranh khí đốt gay gắt. Các mối quan hệ giữa Đức, Mỹ và Nga cũng như là giữa Liên Hiệp Châu Âu với Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ trở nên căng thẳng. Nội bộ khối 27 thành viên Liên Âu cũng vì vậy bị chia rẽ. Liên Hiệp Châu Âu (EU) là một thị trường khí đốt béo bở. 75% nhu cầu khí đốt cho khối là phải nhập khẩu. Số liệu thống kê do hãng khai thác dầu khí BP của Anh đưa ra cho thấy, năm 2019, Liên Hiệp Châu Âu, khi ấy vẫn còn 28 nước thành viên, mua đến hơn 416 tỷ m3 khí đốt thông qua các đường ống dẫn khí, trong đó phần lớn là đến từ Nga, hơn 170,7 tỷ m3 (tức chiếm đến 40%), tiếp đến Na Uy (18%), Algeri (11%) và Qatar (4%). Nord Stream II : Mối bất hòa giữa Mỹ và Đức Trong bối cảnh này, nhiều mặt trận tranh giành quyền cung cấp và trung chuyển khí đốt đang diễn ra gay gắt. Ở phía bắc, dự án Nord Stream 2 gây tranh cãi từ nhiều năm qua. Công trình đường ống dẫn khí dài 1.200km, lớn nhất tại châu Âu, xuyên biển Baltic, nối liền Nga với Liên Hiệp Châu Âu là tâm điểm bất hòa giữa Mỹ và Đức. Nội bộ Liên Âu cũng vì thế bị chia rẽ.   Nếu như đối với Đức, dự án này mang tính sống còn cho quá trình chuyển đổi năng lượng khi quyết định từ bỏ hạt nhân sau thảm họa Fukushima năm 2011, thì Hoa Kỳ cùng với nhiều nước như Ba Lan và cả Ukraina (nước châu Âu nhưng không là thành viên của Liên Âu) tố cáo Nord Stream 2 là một « công cụ chính trị, gây ảnh hưởng » của Nga. Chính quyền Washington còn mạnh tay hơn ban hành các biện pháp trừng phạt nhắm vào các thực thể có tham gia dự án. Hoa Kỳ thật sự quan tâm đến an ninh năng lượng của Đức ? Với nhà địa – kinh tế học về năng lượng, ông Laurent Horvath, chủ bút trang mạng 2000Watts.org, khi trả lời đài truyền hình Thụy Sĩ RTS cho rằng ẩn sau mục tiêu chính trị còn là một vấn đề kinh tế. « Đầu tiên, trong thế giới dầu khí hay năng lượng, có một nguyên tắc : "Thân ai nấy lo, Chúa cho tất cả". Nghĩa là mỗi nước phải tự bảo vệ lấy các quyền lợi của chính mình. Vậy nước Mỹ muốn gì ? Điểm thứ nhất mang tính chiến lược, Washington muốn nắm giữ châu Âu. Thứ hai, trên cấp độ thế giới, nên biết là giá bán ra ở mỗi nơi mỗi khác. Một cách cụ thể, tại Mỹ giá bán khí đốt là 3 franc Thụy Sĩ/m3, tại châu Âu là 5 franc, châu Á là 7 franc, ví dụ vậy. Thế nên, Hoa Kỳ được lợi nhiều khi bán khí đốt cho châu Âu hay châu Á, đây sẽ là một nguồn thu bổ sung. Cuối cùng, chính vì tại Mỹ giá khí đốt rất rẻ, nếu họ xuất khẩu được một phần khí ga, họ có thể tăng giá ở trong nước. Điều đó có nghĩa là Mỹ sẽ có thêm nhiều nguồn thu đáng kể. » Đức khó từ bỏ Nord Stream II Kinh tế - tài chính là nguồn cội sâu xa. Không chỉ có Mỹ, tại châu Âu, nhiều nước vùng Baltic như Ba Lan và Ukraina cũng kịch liệt phản đối dự án này do lo ngại nguy cơ bị tước mất nguồn thu tài chính quan trọng, có được từ quyền trung chuyển và cung cấp khí đốt cho những nước khác. Đối với những nước này, Nord Stream II chỉ có lợi cho nước Đức. Laurent Horvath lưu ý, Hoa Kỳ giờ đang trở thành quốc gia xuất khẩu khí đốt hàng đầu nhờ vào khai thác khí đá phiến. Thế nhưng, theo số liệu thống kê của BP, năm 2019, trong tổng số 106,9 tỷ m3 khí ga hóa lỏng (GNL) nhập khẩu vào châu Âu, Hoa Kỳ chỉ đứng hàng thứ ba (17,1 tỷ m3), sau cả Qatar (29,7 tỷ) và Nga (20,5 tỷ). Thị trường chính cho Mỹ tại châu Âu là Tây Ban Nha, Pháp và Anh. Thế nên, những gì Washington đang làm hiện nay đối với Berlin là nhằm tìm cách xuất khẩu khí đá phiến sang châu Âu. Đây còn là một cuộc chiến giá cả giữa khí ga hóa lỏng (GNL) của Mỹ và khí đốt bán từ Nga. Trong cuộc cạnh tranh này, bất lợi nghiêng về phía Mỹ. Trong khi đó, Đức là quốc gia tiêu thụ nhiều khí đốt nhất tại châu Âu. Các số liệu thống kê của BP đưa ra cho thấy, năm 2019, Đức tiêu thụ đến 109,6 tỷ m3 và hơn một nửa trong số này là đến từ Nga. Do vậy, theo quan điểm của ông Laurent Horvath, Berlin khó có thể bỏ dự án Nord Stream II. « Hiện có hai đường ống dẫn khí. Đường thứ nhất Nord Stream 1 thì đã hoạt động từ lâu. Dự án thứ hai này được hình thành sau thảm họa hạt nhân Fukushima. Vào thời điểm đó, nước Đức bắt đầu suy nghĩ đến tương lai năng lượng đất nước như than đá và hạt nhân. Nhưng không chỉ có vậy, toàn bộ ngành công nghiệp nước Đức rất cần đến khí đốt để sưởi đông, để sản xuất xe ô tô, rồi ngành hóa dầu nữa. BASF là một trong những nhà đầu tư lớn nhất trong dự án này để có thể tiếp nhận nguồn nguyên nhiên liệu rẻ tiền nhằm chế tạo ra nhiều sản phẩm như nhựa, phân bón… » Liệu rằng cuộc chiến Nord Stream II một ngày nào đó có sẽ kết thúc, trong khi mà dự án đã hoàn tất đến 95% giờ phải tạm ngưng ? Giới quan sát cho rằng câu trả lời giờ đang nằm ở phía Đức. Mọi cặp mắt giờ đều đổ dồn vào cuộc bầu cử lập pháp sắp tới. Bước đi nào cho Nord Stream II, đây sẽ là một bài toán hóc búa cho chính quyền Berlin tương lai. Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ : Tác nhân mới, nước cờ sai của Liên Âu Vụ Nord Stream II ầm ĩ đến mức che mờ một cuộc đọ sức khác không kém phần gay gắt ở sườn phía đông và nam châu Âu. Sự trỗi dậy của Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ làm nảy sinh nhiều xung đột giữa nước này với các thành viên Liên Âu trong khu vực. Do nhu cầu khí đốt cao, châu Âu là khu vực có mạng lưới đường ống dẫn khí khá dầy đặc. Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ những năm gần đây cũng cho xây lắp nhiều đường ống dẫn khí trung chuyển qua nước này, nhằm cạnh tranh với các đường ống dẫn khí do châu Âu lắp đặt, như hệ thống ống dẫn TANAP xuyên Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ. Mới đây nhất là hệ thống ống dẫn Turkish Stream nối dài với vùng Balkan để vận chuyển khí đốt từ Nga đến vùng này và các nước Trung Âu. Đường ống này được khánh thành rầm rộ trước sự chứng kiến của tổng thống Nga Vladimir Putin và đồng cấp Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ, Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Với những đường ống dẫn khí mới này, vị thế địa chính trị của Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ ngày càng được củng cố đến mức có thể khóa vòi cung cấp khí đốt cho châu Âu. Chủ biên trang mạng 2000watts.org cho rằng đó là do những tính toán chiến lược sai lầm từ Liên Hiệp Châu Âu. « Đây chính là điều không thể nào tin nổi. Đối với Liên Hiệp Châu Âu, nước Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ nằm đâu đó ở một góc bên phải phía dưới tấm bản đồ. Nhưng trên thực tế, Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ có một vị trí chiến lược quan trọng. Nước này trở thành điểm trung chuyển khí đốt cho châu Âu. Một sự thay đổi tưởng chừng không thể đã xảy ra.  Nhưng người ta cũng có thể nói chính châu Âu đã tự bắn vào chân mình. Bởi vì, vài năm trước đó, Nga vì muốn tránh Ukraina đã đề nghị dẫn khí đi qua những nước phía nam Ukraina nhưng châu Âu đã nói "Không", mà ông Vladimir Putin thì rất sáng tạo. Thế nên, ông ấy nói rằng "được thôi, những gì chúng ta có thể làm là nối ống dẫn khí từ Nga đến Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ, rồi châu Âu tự xoay sở ráp nối với Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ" Như vậy, để có được nguồn khí đốt, Liên Hiệp Châu Âu phải xin phép ông Erdogan. Đây chính là những gì mà người ta gọi là hiệu ứng kép, giải quyết một lần cùng lúc hai vấn đề. » Đông Địa Trung Hải : Một mặt trận cạnh tranh mới Tuy nhiên, tham vọng của chủ nhân thành Ankara không chỉ dừng ở đó. Bất chấp các phản đối từ Liên Âu và việc vi phạm ranh giới lãnh hải, Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ trong suốt mùa hè 2020, đã tiến hành một chiến dịch thăm dò dầu khí ngoài khơi biển Egée. Khu vực này cũng là nơi đang có những tranh chấp lãnh hải hay chia sẻ giếng dầu được phát hiện gần đây tại phía Đông Địa Trung Hải giữa 6 tác nhân : Hy Lạp, Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ, Chypre, Liban, Israel và Ai Cập. Các cuộc va chạm giữa tầu chiến Hy Lạp và Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ trong suốt mùa hè 2020 làm dấy lên nỗi lo điều tồi tệ nhất sẽ xảy ra. Tranh chấp còn mở rộng khi tổng thống Erdogan can dự quân sự vào Libya. Tổng thống Erdogan đã có được quyền khai thác dầu khí ngoài khơi Libya khi đề nghị hậu thuẫn chính quyền Tripoli. Để chống lại mầm mống bành trướng của Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ, một liên minh dầu khí mới được hình thành gồm Cộng hòa Chypre, Hy Lạp và Israel và khởi động một dự án đường ống dẫn khí dài 2.000 km có tên gọi là « East Med ». Liệu việc Ankara trở thành tâm điểm trên bàn cờ khí đốt cũng như việc Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ cho thăm dò dầu khí trong khu vực Đông Địa Trung Hải có làm nhen nhúm lên những rủi ro xung đột hay không ? Về điểm này, ông Laurent Horvath có nhận định như sau : « Ở đây ông Erdogan có một giải pháp. "Quý vị muốn có khí đốt phải không ?", được thôi, rồi ông ấy đưa ra danh sách các điều kiện cho những nước đó. Trên thực tế, khi nước nào càng bị lệ thuộc vào khí đốt bao nhiêu, thì nước đó càng phải chấp nhận các điều kiện đặt ra bấy nhiêu. Nhưng nếu ai đó không bị lệ thuộc thì họ sẽ nói không. Ở đây, ông Erdogan có tất cả các lá bài trong tay, bởi vì toàn bộ vùng Nam Âu phụ thuộc hoàn toàn vào khí đốt. »  Cuộc đua giành quyền phân phối khí đốt Thế mạnh này của Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ ngày càng được củng cố khi một hành lang đường ống dẫn khí mới đang được phát triển, đi từ vùng biển Caspi như các nước Turmekistan, Azerbaijan, những tác nhân khai thác khí ga mới. Và trong dự án này, Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ một lần nữa lại trở thành một điểm trung chuyển. Mạng lưới ống dẫn khí tại châu Âu vì thế càng thêm dầy đặc. Và cuộc cạnh tranh giành thị phần khí đốt còn sôi động hơn, khi cùng ngày Nga – Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ khánh thành đường ống Balkan Stream, ngày 01/01/2021, một tầu hàng chở khí hóa lỏng GNL của Mỹ cập cảng Krk của Croatia. Nguồn khí này không chỉ dành cho Croatia mà còn cung cấp cho cả Hungary, Ukraina và nhiều nước khác. Với sự xuất hiện của nhiều tác nhân mới, thế độc quyền cung cấp khí đốt cho châu Âu của nước Nga ít nhiều bị lung lay. Khí đốt của Nga giờ bị cạnh tranh bởi Mỹ cũng như là Azerbaijan, những nước đang gậm nhấm dần các thị trường mà Nga có được từ lâu. Nord Stream 2 và Turkish Stream, hai dự án chiến lược của Nga cả trên bình diện chính trị lẫn kinh tế được cho như là cơ may cuối cùng để Nga « cắm rễ » tại châu Âu. Nhật báo Jutarnji List của Croatia, trong một bài viết được tờ Courrier International trích dịch lại khẳng định rằng năm 2021 sẽ mang đậm dấu ấn của « cuộc chiến khí đốt » giữa những nhà cung cấp lớn nhất cho thị trường châu Âu. Một số nhà quan sát cho rằng Gazpromp rất có thể sẽ phải hạ giá nhằm lôi kéo các khách hàng khí hóa lỏng của Mỹ, vốn dĩ đắt hơn. Tuy nhiên, trong điều kiện kinh tế hiện nay, Nga có thể cầm cự được bao lâu với mức giá đó, âu cũng điều đáng hỏi ! Nhưng có một điều chắc chắn là năng lượng gió và mặt trời còn lâu mới thay thế được than đá, dầu hỏa và khí đốt !

Podcasting from both sides of the divide in Nicosia-Cyprus, Andromachi Sophocleous & Kemal Baykallı are producing the popular politics podcast - Nicosia Uncut. In this episode, they discuss the conclusions of the latest EU Council meeting and provide a background in the global and regional politics. While the new US Administration is trying to restore the American foreign policy around containing Russia, Turkish-American relations are likely to face various tests including the one in the East Med. Europeans are still lacking a coherent and unified foreign policy, a gap that might be filled by post-Trump USA. Cyprus, however, is still a chip in the bigger game. As the date for the informal 5+1 summit on Cyprus is fast approaching, Nicosia Uncut producers discuss various scenarios for the meeting that will take place between 27-29 April in Geneva.

This week a federal appeals court reinstated guilty verdicts on Bijan Rafiekian, the business partner of former Trump administration National Security Adviser Michael Flynn, over the pair's lobbying for Turkish interests in the midst of the 2016 presidential campaign. During the Turkey-related work, Flynn was a top adviser to Trump's presidential campaign. After the 2016 election, Rafiekian became an adviser to Trump's transition team. Adam Klasfeld joins us to discuss this ruling, and give us a look ahead at the upcoming Halkbank trial set to begin in May. Adam Klasfeld is the senior investigative reporter and editor for Law and Crime, the host of the podcast Objections, and was previously a reporter with Court House News.Read Adam Klasfeld's report on the court's ruling here: Michael Flynn Associate's Convictions Reinstated by Appeals Court Over Undisclosed Influence Operation for TurkeyWatch his comments on the upcoming Halkbank trial on a panel set up by The Foundation for Defense of Democracies: Turkish Banks Under Fire at Home and Under Scrutiny in U.S. CourtsYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Greece to reopen ancient sites despite COVID-19 surgeGreece lifts some Covid-19 restrictions to relieve lockdown fatigueErdogan, EU chiefs discuss Turkey-EU ties, East Med ahead of EU summitEU press release on the call with Turkish President ErdoganEU press release doesn't include reference to rule of law

On Sunday the AP ran a story highlighting the continued silent treatment the Biden administration is giving to Turkey's President Erdogan. This story rounds out what has been a tough week for Turkey in Washington, where it got a lot of pushback from both Congress and the administration. This included a Senate push for the administration to officially recognize the Armenian Genocide, the State Department and the Justice Department saying that Turkey is liable for the attack on protesters in DC in 2017, and Secretary Blinken's testimony in the House on issues related to the Aegean and the East Med. Pushback against Turkey wasn't limited to Washington. Most recently, Egypt also shut down Ankara's narrative of a diplomatic reconciliation between Ankara and Cairo.Endy Zemenides, HALC's Executive Director, joins The Greek Current podcast today to break down the latest news from Washington, DC and the region. We'll also look at his latest op-ed in Kathimerini titled “Revisiting The Social Contract”. Read Endy Zemenides op-ed in Kathimerini here: Revisiting The Social ContractYou can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here: Call me? US-Turkey reset faces long list of hurdlesTurkey operationalizes its top ministers in Egypt ploy - analysisMajor European nations suspend use of AstraZeneca vaccineContinue using AstraZeneca vaccine, says WHOVaccinations with AstraZeneca jab to continue in Greece pending EMA decisionTurkey slams Mediterranean undersea cable dealGreeks fly kites for Clean Monday holiday despite pandemicCyprus pulls back on wider easing of COVID-19 restrictionsGovt meets extension of restrictions with new support measures

Greece's Minister of Development and Investment, Adonis Georgiadis, discusses investments in Greece's infrastructure, and looks at the important role that the US is playing through the International Development Finance Corporation (DFC). We look at key investments in Greece's ports and shipyards like Alexandroupoli and Elefsis, in the energy sector, and also explore key investments from US companies like Pfizer, Microsoft, Cisco, and Deloitte in Athens and Thessaloniki. You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here: Big powers vie for Greece's portsAmbassador Pyatt's Remarks at Athens Energy DialoguesBiden wants to deepen Greek-US relations, says US envoy Nadal blows 2-set lead against Tsitsipas in AustraliaStefanos Tsitsipas beats Rafael Nadal to set up Daniil Medvedev semi-finalSnowstorms hit East Med, army called out in GreeceCancelled vaccination appointments to be rescheduled next week

Today, Turkey's seismic research vessel, the Oruc Reis, returned to port from an area within Greece's continental shelf. The move comes less than two weeks before an EU summit where European leaders will evaluate possible sanctions against Ankara. In the lead up to that summit, Greece has also made it clear that there can be no discussions with Turkey unless Ankara implements a moratorium on exploratory activities. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini's diplomatic and defense editor,  joins The Greek Current to analyze the latest news. Read Vassilis Nedos's piece in Kathimerini in English and Greek here: Exploration moratorium the only wayΜορατόριουμ ερευνών και συζητάμεYou can read the articles we discuss on The Daily Roundup here: Greece blasts Berlin for shunning plea for Turkey arms embargoTurkish exploration vessel back in port ahead of EU summitIMF: Greek debt sustainable despite pandemic-linked spikeFinance minister welcomes Eurogroup decision on easing public debtTurkey tightens coronavirus curbs as death toll hits record highTurkey toughens curfew measures amid coronavirus surge85 Covid-19 deaths confirmed as new infections ease

On Wednesday President Trump granted a full pardon to his former national security adviser, Michael Flynn. Michael Flynn had twice pleaded guilty for lying to the F.B.I. about his conversations with a Russian diplomat, and had also admitted as part of his guilty plea that he provided false information to the Justice Department about work he did for Turkish interests while serving as a top adviser on the Trump campaign. HALC's Managing Director Georgia Logothetis and Petros Kasfikis, the Washington, DC correspondent for Mega TV in Greece and the Athens News Agency, join us today to discuss this breaking news.You can read the articles we discuss on The Daily Roundup here: Trump pardons former national security adviser FlynnTrump Pardons Michael Flynn, Ending Case His Justice Dept. Sought to Shut DownTrump Pardons Michael Flynn, Who Pleaded Guilty To Lying About Russia ContactGreece to offer 50% income tax cut to lure remote workers during pandemicGreece offers new incentives for relocationEU's top diplomat says Turkey's actions in East Med, Cyprus' Varosha ‘high' on the EU agendaTatar will reopen ‘every square meter' of Varosha

Professor Ryan Gingeras joins us today to discuss Turkey's controversial Blue Homeland doctrine which was highlighted in the Washington Post this weekend, its author retired Admiral Cem Gurdeniz, and what Blue Homeland means for Turkey's neighbors in the Eastern Mediterranean.Ryan Gingeras is a professor in the Department of National Security Affairs at the Naval Postgraduate School and is an expert on Turkish, Balkan, and Middle East history. Professor Gingeras is also the author of the piece “Blue Homeland: The Heated Politics Behind Turkey's New Maritime Strategy”.You can read the articles we discuss on The Daily Roundup here:Amid Mediterranean tensions, retired Turkish admiral grabs the spotlight touting supremacy at seaTurkish presidency releases video promoting Blue Homeland doctrineUS, Greece call for peaceful solution in East Med during Pompeo visitPompeo pledges US support to ease Greece-Turkey disputeU.S.-Greece Science and Technology Agreement Fact SheetFighting Between Armenia And Azerbaijan Threatens To Spiral Into Full-Blown WarTurkey deploying Syrian fighters to help ally AzerbaijanTurkish lira skids to new lows as Caucasus clashes weigh

Joseph Murphy, News Editor of Natural Gas World, brings us an overview of the latest main developments impacting the natural gas world. This week: EU seeks to charge ships for emissions, Norway launches $2.7bn CCS plan, China pushes on with pipeline unbundling, GE gives up on coal and East Med states unite in gas supply.

While tensions remain high between Greece and Turkey in the Eastern Mediterranean, diplomatic efforts are underway to bring Athens and Ankara to the negotiating table. Raman Ghavami, the author of a recent op-ed titled “Negotiating with Turkey Will Worsen the Eastern Mediterranean Crisis”, is with us to discuss why he believes Ankara's recent call for dialogue should be treated with extreme caution.You can read the articles we discuss on The Daily Roundup here:Negotiating with Turkey will worsen the eastern Mediterranean crisis'Europe's moment': EU chief calls for unity to confront crisesVon der Leyen challenges EU capitals to step upCyprus: EU sanctions an option to halt Turkey's gas searchCyprus says ready for dialogue with Turkey but not under threatsGreek PM says concerned by extension of Turkish drill ship operations off Cyprus

In this week's episode, Sapienta Economics Director Fiona Mullen talks about the commercial aspects of natural gas with the East Mediterranean Editor of Middle East Economic Survey (MEES), Peter Stevenson. The recent bid by US energy giant Chevron to buy out Noble Energy - the lead company in the Cyprus Aphrodite and Israeli Leviathan and Tamar fields - has been challenged by the activist investor, Elliott Management. What is the difference between the two companies and what would either company's ownership mean for East Med gas development prospects?

Today the State Department announced it was lifting a 33 year arms embargo on Cyprus, waiving restrictions on the sale of non-lethal defense articles and services for the coming fiscal year. Apostolos Zoupaniotis, the publisher and editor of the weekly Greek-American newspaper Greek News and a regular commentator on Hellenic issues, joins us to analyze today's headline story.You can read the articles we discuss on The Daily Roundup here:Οι ΗΠΑ ανακοίνωσαν μερική και προσωρινή άρση του εμπάργκο όπλων στην Κύπρο – Συνομιλία Πομπέο – ΑναστασιάδηUS partially lifts arms embargo against CyprusMenendez lauds decision to lift outdated arms export restrictions to CyprusTurkey renews call for dialogue, sharing of resources in MedGreece in talks with France over fighter jets, as East Med tensions riseCyprus sees glimmer of hope with ChevronNo further delays seen in drilling programmes

The New York Times Editorial Board published an op-ed titled “There's a New Game of Thrones in the Mediterranean,” that attempts to break down the tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. Instead of calling Turkey out for its dangerous provocations, the authors attempt to lay equal blame at the feet of both Greece and Turkey. Endy Zemenides, HALC's Executive Director, discusses why the piece is problematic and HALC's response.You can read the articles we discuss on The Daily Roundup here:Take Action: Set the record straight at the NYTimesNYTimes op-ed: There's a New Game of Thrones in the MediterraneanFinancial Times op-ed: Defusing tensions in the eastern MediterraneanNorth Macedonia government wins confidence voteNorth Macedonia parliament approves Zoran Zaev as PMTurkey extends exploration work in disputed East Mediterranean areaTurkey issues new navtex for Oruc Reis in East Med

Tensions remain at an all time high in the Eastern Mediterranean as Turkey continues its provocations, challenging Greece's maritime rights in the region. In the meantime, Germany is attempting a diplomatic mediation, while EU ministers are meeting to discuss possible sanctions against Turkey. Dr. Aristotle Tziampiris, Professor of International Relations and the Chair of the Department of International and European Studies at the University of Piraeus, provides us with his analysis. You can read the articles we discuss on The Daily Roundup here:Germany calls for end to east Mediterranean military drillsGreek Parliament ratifies deal with Egypt on maritime boundariesNew Navtex shows Turkey not truly interested in de-escalation, Athens saysEU reaches vaccine deal with AstraZenecaCoronavirus: the Commission signs first contract with AstraZenecaStatement by Ambassador Brownback on Chora

This week we saw an uptick in military exercises in the Eastern Mediterranean amid Turkey's continued provocations in Greece's EEZ. Greece held military exercises with France, Italy, Cyprus the UAE, and the US. Retired General Taxiarchis Sardellis, HALC's Nonresident Senior Fellow for Defense and Security Policy, is with us today to discuss these military exercises.You can read the articles we discuss on The Daily Roundup here:Turkey prolonging East Med standoffGreece starts more training exercises amid Turkey tensionSix Greek F-16s participated in joint drill off CyprusEU urges Turkey to stop drilling in Med, ponders sanctionsEU mulls sanctions on Turkey over Eastern Mediterranean tensionsFrance's Macron says he set red lines with Turkey in eastern Mediterranean

Tensions remain high in the Eastern Mediterranean, where Turkey's Oruc Reis research vessel, accompanied by Turkish ships, remains in Greece's continental shelf and exclusive economic zone. In the meantime, Greece's navy and air force is preparing to conduct military exercises in the area beginning Tuesday, while Berlin is stepping up its diplomatic efforts for a resumption of talks between Greece and Turkey. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini's diplomatic and defense editor, is with us from Athens with the latest news.You can read the articles we discuss on The Daily Roundup here:Athens draws red line on sea surveysGerman mediation to continue with Maas visitGreece plans Mediterranean navy exercises; Turkey objectsGreece irked by Germany in standoff with TurkeyCyprus denies unlawful citizenships but vows to examine Al Jazeera listAl Jazeera ‘probe' a smear campaignNew Covid-19 infections drop, with 170 cases reportedGreece tells Students to wear masks when schools reopen Sept. 7

Despite all odds, Andromachi Sophocleous and Kemal Baykallı continue to discuss the recent political developments from Cyprus. Turkish-Greek relations, tension in Eastern Mediterranean, elections in north and Varosha. Can buffer zone buffer the heat? And the best place to swim on the East.

Macron steps up as Merkel cowers French jets buzz Turkish ships in East Med. The Duran Quick Take: Episode 631. Via Ekathimerini (https://www.ekathimerini.com/255905/article/ekathimerini/news/during-eu-teleconference-greece-and-germany-disagree-on-turkey-stance)... During an EU teleconference of the European Union Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) on Friday, Greece and Germany disagreed on the content of the statement officials had planned to issue after the talks, according to diplomatic sources. The Greek side insisted on a harder line against Ankara that would have demanded an immediate end to Turkey's exploratory activities in the Eastern Mediterranean this week and that would have welcomed last week's deal between Greece and Egypt demarcating the two countries' exclusive economic zones. However German officials disagreed, particularly over a proposed reference to the Greek-Egyptian deal. Berlin was irked with the timing of the Greek-Egyptian maritime accord, a day before the scheduled announcement of exploratory talks between Athens and Ankara that had been mediated by Germany. As a result, Greece too refused to approve a proposed EU statement on the Belarus election results, meaning there was no joint statement at the end of the teleconference. *** The Patriot Beacon #1 Tactical Flashlight on the Market Link: https://www.patrioticlegacy.com/product/patriot-flashlight/ Coupon code: Duran20

The Duran Quick Take: Episode 628. Greece, Egypt & France align against Turkish moves in East Med. Via Ekathimerini (https://www.ekathimerini.com/255825/gallery/ekathimerini/news/greece-welcomes-french-boost-as-tension-rises-in-east-med)... Greece's prime minister warmly thanked France Thursday for boosting its military presence in the eastern Mediterranean, where Greek and Turkish warships are closely shadowing each other over a Turkish energy exploration bid in waters Athens claims as its own. Meanwhile, Turkey accused Greece and the island nation of Cyprus of encroaching on its rights in the Mediterranean and vowed to defend its interests in the region but also called for dialogue to resolve the dispute. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis tweeted that French President Emmanuel Macron was “a true friend of Greece and also a fervent protector of European values and international law.” The mounting territorial tension follows Turkey's move to send a seismic research vessel, escorted by warships, into waters between the Greek island of Crete and Cyprus to prospect for potential offshore gas and oil reserves, following similar discoveries in other parts of the region. Greece claims part of the area is over its own continental shelf and has demanded that the Turkish ships withdraw. Turkey counters that it's entitled to conduct research in the area. Greece placed its military on alert, and sent warships to the area off Turkey's southern coast. #EastMed #Greece #Turkey #TheDuran *** The Patriot Beacon #1 Tactical Flashlight on the Market Link: https://www.patrioticlegacy.com/product/patriot-flashlight/ Coupon code: Duran20

Tensions remain at dangerous levels in the Eastern Mediterranean, where Turkey's research vessel, the Oruc Reis, is surveying for energy resources in Greece's continental shelf south of the Greek island of Kastellorizo. Greece has demanded the ship's withdrawal, and the Greek armed forces remain on high alert. We analyze the main reactions to these latest developments on our Daily Roundup today.You can read the articles we discuss on the Daily Roundup here:Turkish ship starts energy search; Greece issues warningsStatement from Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos MitsotakisPM warns of possible 'accident' in East Med amid Greek-Turkish tensionsFrance to increase Mediterranean troop presence over Turkey gas explorationsIsrael takes Greece's side in maritime standoff with TurkeyEU foreign ministers to discuss Turkey, Belarus, Lebanon in emergency meetingNew daily record set with 262 new infectionsAnxiety builds as coronavirus cases increaseMurders of women in Turkey: ‘The state cannot shield us'Relief donations reach Beirut on vessel, chartered flightIkaria ferry reaches Beirut, collection of dry food continues in Cyprus

On Tuesday Turkey announced that it will halt research for oil and gas in the Eastern Mediterranean in an area located within the Greek continental shelf. Kathimerini's diplomatic and defense editor Vassilis Nedos discusses the diplomatic efforts that took place to deescalate tensions and the ongoing situation.You can read the articles we discuss on the Daily Roundup here:Turkey's halt of activities welcomedAthens says only issues are continental shelf, sea zones«Μορατόριουμ» με πολλά ερωτήματαTurkey passes law extending sweeping powers over social mediaTurkey's MPs vote to tighten grip on social mediaUnficyp raft resolution adopted by UN Security Council with minor changesUNFICYP renewal invokes reactions

Armenian National Committee of America Executive Director Aram Hamparian discusses the deadliest Azerbaijani attack on Armenians in years that has taken place this month, Turkey's role in encouraging Azerbaijan, and the response to this aggression in the US from Armenian Americans and their partners - including HALC.You can read the articles we discuss on the Daily Roundup here:Take Action: Condemn Azerbaijani Aggression against ArmeniaArmenian school in San Francisco vandalizedOp-ed: U.S. Leaders Must Stand Against Turkey's Atrocities in Northern SyriaGreece says tension easing in East Med dispute with TurkeyThree-way, high-stakes push under wayTom Hanks and Rita Wilson officially become Greek citizens

On this day, in 1974, 46 years ago, the Turkish army invaded Cyprus. The illegal invasion and  occupation of part of the Republic of Cyprus continues to date, in violation of International Law and United Nations resolutions. HALC Executive Director Endy Zemenides and activist and community leader Tasos Zambas join to talk about this day and the ongoing efforts for justice for Cyprus.Tasos Zambas is the Chairman of the Justice for Cyprus Committee for the Federation of Cypriot-American Associations, and a refugee from Morphou, Cyprus.You can read the articles we discuss on the Daily Roundup here:Sirens mark 1974 Attila operation in CyprusHALC twitter thread on the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974Hopes rise for EU recovery deal at marathon summitEU leaders see path to budget-and-recovery dealEU Proposes $858 Billion Stimulus With $446 Billion in GrantsGreece braces for rise in refugees as relations with Turkey worsenAthens braces for tensions in East Med

Turkey pushing for war in East Med? Bolton in Israel - Hook & Iran by Tore Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Interest in the Eastern Mediterranean over the past years has exploded following significant findings of natural gas off the coasts of Israel, Cyprus, and Egypt. These findings have the potential to be game changers for the region, but also pose a new set of challenges. Charles Ellinas joins The Greek Current to share his insights. Mr. Ellinas is a senior fellow at the Global Energy Center of the Atlantic Council, chief executive officer (CEO) of Cyprus-based energy consultancy e-CNHC, and has over thirty-five years of experience in the oil and gas sector.