Greek PM: Meaningful sanctions must be imposed on Ankara

The two NATO allies (Greece and Turkey) are locked in an intense dispute over the maritime borders in the region, as Turkey sent a survey ship to an area that both countries claim to be their own.

"We need dialogue, but not at gunpoint," Mitsotakis said, according to Reuters. "What threatens the security and stability of my country threatens the well-being and safety of all European Union member states."

This month, EU leaders are expected to determine their response to Turkey, with the Greek prime minister saying, "If Turkey does not withdraw its assets, meaningful sanctions should be imposed on it."

And Mitsotakis added: "If Europe wants to exercise real geopolitical power, it simply cannot withstand the actions of Turkey that is eager for wars, and Turkey still has plenty of time to avoid sanctions and retreat."

Referring to the International Tribunal for Sovereign Disputes, the Greek Prime Minister said, "They must withdraw, return to the table, and follow up from where they left off when they withdrew from the exploratory talks in 2016, and if we are not able to agree, then we must seek a solution in The Hague."

T/S

ANHA