EU Urges Greece to Lift Veto on Türkiye's €150B SAFE Defense Program

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul will visit Greece on Monday to urge the country to lift its veto on Turkey’s participation in the European Union’s €150 billion Security Action for Europe (SAFE) defense program. Greece has maintained its stance, insisting that Turkey must abandon its aggressive posture, which includes threats regarding Aegean territorial waters and disputes over Greek islands.

While Cyprus and France support Greece"s position, a majority of EU nations, particularly those from Eastern and Scandinavian regions, back Turkey"s inclusion in the program. They cite Turkey"s strong defense industry and its standing within NATO as reasons for their support.

This development comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, with Greece emphasizing the need for Turkey to change its approach before any cooperation can be considered.