Naval Base at Souda Bay is not under threat, says Greek FM

Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis stressed that the Souda Bay Naval Base is not under threat and remains fully protected.

In an interview with Skai TV late on Thursday, Gerapetritis stressed that “protective measures have been upgraded, and Greece’s anti-ballistic and air-defense shield has been installed and deployed.”

“Greek citizens can therefore feel secure,” he underlined.

He further noted that “the status of Souda is governed by the defense agreement between United States and Greece. What can take place within the base is very clearly defined,” adding that “both our navy and our air force are in a position to effectively protect every Greek citizen.”

“The facility primarily provides logistical support to the United States and is therefore not intended for offensive operations. I wish to offer assurances that all necessary measures have been taken, both by the American side and by Greece,” he said.

The foreign minister also underlined that “the deployment of Greece’s defense forces, both within Greek territory and in Cyprus, is a matter of national sovereignty. It is non-negotiable and is not subject to discussion.”

“Our defensive formation was decided in a sovereign manner,” he said, adding: “The deployment of two frigates and two pairs of fighter aircraft to Cyprus constitutes a historic, fraternal duty towards Cyprus, and we are proud that we possess the defensive capabilities to provide this assistance, which is purely defensive in nature.”

Gerapetritis also stressed that “any targeting of Cyprus would constitute a threat to Europe and would trigger the duty of solidarity towards Cyprus.”

“In a state of war such as the one we find ourselves in today, the decisions taken for the protection and security of Greek citizens are not a matter for discussion,” he added.