Greece will not send air defense systems to Ukraine: Prime Minister cites reason
Photo: Prime Minister of Greece Kyriakos Mitsotakis (Getty Images)
Allied countries requested Greece to send Ukraine S-300 or Patriot air defense systems. However, Athens will not do so because these air defense systems are needed for the country's own defense, stated the Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis.
"Greece has no intention of sending either the S-300 or Patriot systems to Ukraine. We were asked, and we explained why we cannot do it," Mitsotakis said.
He noted that Greece has supported Ukraine in various ways, including with defense materials.
"However, from the very beginning, we said that we cannot part with defense systems that are crucial for our deterrent capabilities. We have surplus material that we can provide to support Ukraine, we have done so, and I believe it's the right choice. And if we can find such material, we will continue to do so. But the air defense systems you mentioned are critically important for the defense of Greek airspace and will not be provided to Ukraine," the Greek Prime Minister added.
Air defense for Ukraine
The need for air defense in Ukraine has intensified following the resumption of Russian strikes on energy facilities.
Germany has pledged to assist Ukraine in finding air defense systems. Specifically, a decision was made to transfer an additional Patriot system.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy previously stated that to fully close Ukraine's skies from Russian drones and missiles, 25 Patriot systems are needed.
According to Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, Ukraine has already identified 100 available Patriot systems worldwide, but initially aims to acquire 7 of them.
