EU Summit

In addition to commenting on defense spending and migration at the end of the EU Summit, the Greek PM voiced concerns over Turkey's democratic backsliding.

Mitsotakis revealed the new directive to the Ministry of Migration and Asylum’s leadership, stating: "The new approach is clear: anyone entering the country illegally and not granted asylum should be returned to the country from which they came."

As the summit unfolds, Greece is expected to advocate for stronger EU defense mechanisms, a fair and effective migration policy, and enhanced economic competitiveness in the face of global challenges.

On the issue of Ukraine, Mitsotakis is expected to emphasize that Europe must speak with a single, unified voice, particularly regarding prospects for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

The push for European defense autonomy is gaining traction, with EU officials acknowledging a growing willingness among member states to take decisive steps in that direction.

PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis reiterated Greece’s support of Ukraine and the European Union’s commitment to peace.

As European leaders gather for this crucial summit, the outcome will likely set the stage for future peace talks and diplomatic initiatives, especially as the war shows no signs of abating

Costa added that discussions clearly focus on anti-aircraft and anti-missile defense, as well as on missiles, ammunition, and mobility.

Greece is at the forefront of the discussion on the necessity of a strong European defense, as its defense spending already exceeds 3% of GDP.

“Everyone should be concerned about ensuring Syria’s territorial integrity and protecting the country’s religious minorities,” Mitsotakis noted.

Mitsotakis is likely to stress that the European Union cannot remain absent from developments in the Middle East and the post-conflict situation in Syria at the EU Summit

The Council’s agenda will include critical issues amid developments in the Middle East, as well as the ongoing Ukraine-Russian war.

The European leaders’ agenda of discussions is expected to focus on the outcome of the recent U.S. elections and how it will impact the EU.

Mitsotakis is also said to advocate for EU agreements with third countries to facilitate migrant returns.

The prime minister will highlight Greece’s role as a pillar of stability and security in the region aiming to strengthen cooperation with key geopolitical partners.

Prime Minister Mitsotakis objected to the deletion of a paragraph on defense initiatives, "Flagship projects and defense initiatives of common interest across the EU."

The Greek prime minister is also expected to address European defense strategies.

The President of the European Council, Charles Michel, shortly after midnight following the conclusion of the first day of the Summit stated “The sanctions against Iran are a clear message that we want to send.”

The Greek PM stated that strategic self-determination of Europe means more investments in military equipment, adding that Greece had exceeded 2% of its defense spending as a percentage of GDP in recent years

High on the agenda of the EU Summit are discussions on the war in Ukraine, security and defense, and developments in the Middle East