Greece, believing that French support could strengthen its position against Turkiye, adopted an aggressive stance as the tide turned. However, the country is now facing consequences for its actions.

A few weeks ago, Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias summoned the French Ambassador to Athens, to his office regarding France’s sale of Meteor missiles to Turkiye. He violated protocol during the meeting. He also shared a photo of the encounter on social media, a move seen as an attempt to exert diplomatic pressure on France. Later, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis claimed in a televised interview that he was unaware of the meeting. Whether this statement was true or an attempt to soften France’s reaction remains unclear. However, France’s response has now become evident.
According to Milliyet columnist Özay Şendir, Mitsotakis was subjected to a diplomatic snub in Paris. Şendir writes; “When the Greek Prime Minister’s vehicle arrived at the Élysée Palace at 16:14—one minute before his scheduled meeting with President Emmanuel Macron—the palace doors remained closed. Citing an extended prior engagement, Macron kept Mitsotakis waiting in his car until 16:46.
French officials, known for their strict adherence to protocol, could have welcomed Mitsotakis inside and hosted him properly. Instead, they chose to keep him waiting in retaliation for Dendias’ actions in Athens. The Greek Defence Minister had previously seated the French Ambassador in a manner that violated diplomatic norms, issued an ultimatum regarding the Meteor missile sales to Turkiye, and publicised the meeting’s details in the media.
Ambassadors represent their heads of state in the countries where they serve, as stated in their letters of credence. France’s actions signal a strong rebuke to Athens for Dendias’ behaviour.”
Tensions between France and Greece appear to be deepening. Greece’s plan to sell its Mirage 2000-5 fighters to France and use the proceeds to acquire Rafale jets has also collapsed, as France declined the offer.
Meanwhile, Dendias recently attended a conference in the United States, where he indirectly criticised Turkiye and called on the U.S. to take a stance in the Mediterranean.
Greece is also seeking alternative means to counter Turkiye. Recently, Athens lodged a protest with Italy over Baykar’s acquisition of the Italian aerospace firm Piaggio, arguing that the deal violated EU regulations.