Athens Prepares Official Complaint to Kyiv
Greece is set to lodge a formal diplomatic protest with Ukraine after an explosive-laden maritime drone was discovered near the island of Lefkada. Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis has briefed EU High Representative Kaja Kallas on the incident. In the coming days, Athens is expected to issue a formal note of protest to Ukraine and demand an apology over the unmanned vessel.
Discovery of the Unmanned Vessel
A Magura V3 unmanned surface vessel was found off the coast of Lefkada in the Ionian Sea. Local fishermen spotted the craft near Cape Doukato inside a coastal cave. The drone was equipped with detonators but carried no explosives. Its engine was still running at the time of discovery, and the vessel was fitted with advanced antennas and communication systems.
Greece asserts that the drone is of Ukrainian origin, but Kyiv denies these claims. The Ukrainian side has stated that there is currently no evidence linking the unmanned boat to Ukrainian operators. Greek Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lana Zohiou noted that Athens is awaiting the results of an official investigation. She added:
“Once we receive the official conclusion from the National Defense General Staff, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will take the necessary measures and official steps at both bilateral and international levels.” - Lana Zohiou
This incident has the potential to significantly impact relations between Greece and Ukraine, particularly amid the ongoing war in Ukraine and rising regional tensions. It also raises concerns among other European Union member states regarding maritime border security and the emerging threats posed by unmanned technologies. Ukraine's response and the investigation's findings will likely be decisive in shaping the future of diplomatic ties between the two nations.
The escalating situation surrounding the unmanned vessel has prompted Greece to enhance its diplomatic measures against Ukraine. As tensions rise, it's crucial to understand the broader implications of this incident on bilateral relations. For a deeper insight into Greece's intensified diplomatic stance following the discovery of the sea drone, read more in our detailed coverage on this developing story.