The Greek Current

Is NATO's future in doubt, and what does this mean for Greece?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 11:00:09 +0000

Recently we marked 77 years since the NATO alliance was founded. Instead of celebrating this milestone, however, President Trump’s comments slamming NATO over its reluctance to help the US secure the Straits of Hormuz, including calling the alliance a “paper tiger” and saying NATO allies were “tested” and they “failed”, have left allies wondering if the future of the alliance is in doubt.

Given President Trump’s statements, could a US withdrawal from NATO be in the cards, and what would it mean for the US and for allied countries like Greece?

James Lindsay and Ino Afentouli join Thanos Davelis as we break down why NATO matters in a world of increasing great power rivalry, what’s at stake for the US, and why it’s critical for Greece, Southeastern Europe, and the Eastern Mediterranean.

This week we’re also digging into Greek history as Greece recently commemorated the 200th anniversary of the heroic exodus of the Greeks from the besieged city of Messolonghi during the Greek Revolution. We break down this story with Professor Alexander Kitroeff who explains why it was a pivotal moment for the Greek Revolution, how it galvanized philhellenes around the world, and why this story still resonates today.

Taking us to our “I am HALC” segment, we’re highlighting one of HALC’s earliest members, Harry Koulos. A distinguished attorney, Harry has been named one of Best Lawyers’ Ones to Watch since 2024. He honed his skills as a clerk in Federal court and at one of the biggest law firms in the US, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, before taking his expertise to Kibler Fowler & Cave, where he currently practices. A distinguished leader, Harry’s passion for the law is equal to his passion for his Hellenic identity and the community.

A little more info on our guests:

James Lindsay is the Mary and David Boies distinguished senior fellow in U.S. foreign policy at the Council on Foreign Relations.

Ino Afentouli is the Senior Policy Advisor and Head of the Observatory of Geopolitics and Diplomacy at ELIAMEP.

Alexander Kitroeff is a professor of history with an expertise in Greece and the diaspora.

You can support The Greek Current by joining HALC as a member here.

Is the future of Christians in the Middle East in doubt?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 3 Apr 2026 15:57:48 +0000

This past weekend, with Easter celebrations around the corner, Christians in Syria were once again the target of attacks that have rocked their dwindling community. This was the latest in a string of attacks since the fall of the Assad regime that have targeted members of the country’s Alawite, Druze and Christian communities, and many minorities - indigenous to the region - are asking if there is space for them in the Syria that’s emerging under President al-Sharaa.

This attack also sounded alarms in Athens, and Greece is working to ensure that the protection of Christian populations in the Middle East remains on the international agenda. Aside from Syria, Greece is also concerned about Lebanon, where thousands of Christians have departed in recent years, and has raised the issue of access to the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem during Easter, which made international headlines recently.

These are all issues highlighted in the US Commission on International Religious Freedom’s (USCIRF) 2026 report, which also focuses on the troubling religious freedom conditions in another country in the region, Turkey. At the risk of sounding like a broken record, USCIRF is once again reiterating that the US place Turkey on its Special Watch List.

Vicky Hartzler, Nadine Maenza, Vassilis Nedos, and Alexia Kalaitzi join Thanos Davelis this week as we look into USCIRF’s 2026 report and Turkey’s problematic record on religious freedom, the plight of Christians in Syria in the wake of another attack on this vulnerable community, and how Greece is working to ensure that the protection of Christian populations in the Middle East remains on the agenda.

Taking us to our “I am HALC” segment, this week we’re putting the spotlight on Dean Alonistiotis, a long-time member of HALC with a strong commitment to public service and his Chicago community. Dean’s work has taken him from the city of Chicago, where he served as Director of Economic Development for the City Treasurer's Office, to his current position as Chief of Staff for Illinois State Representative Kim du Buclet.

A little more info on our guests:

Vicky Hartzler is the Chair of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) and a former member of the US House of Representatives.

Nadine Maenza is the co-chair of the International Religious Freedom Roundtable and a former chair of USCIRF.

Vassilis Nedos is Kathimerini's diplomatic and defense editor.

Alexia Kalaitzi is an award-winning journalist and features reporter for Kathimerini.

You can support The Greek Current by joining HALC as a member here.

Greece braces for the economic fallout from the Iran crisis

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 14:52:09 +0000

Over the past weeks, Greece, like the rest of the world, has one eye on the ongoing war with Iran and is looking to see what this ongoing crisis, which continues to shake markets, will mean for the global economy. For Greece, these concerns include rising prices, the country’s dependence on imported gas and oil, and the possible impact this could have on the tourism sector as a prolonged crisis could affect the upcoming summer season.

This has prompted Prime Minister Mitsotakis to announce a package of support measures early this week that seeks to address many of these concerns, especially the rising cost of fuel.

Nikos Vettas, John Psaropoulos, and Yiannis Tsakalos join Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at how the ongoing crisis in the Middle East is impacting Greece’s overall economic outlook, what steps the government is taking in response to this crisis, and what this could mean for Greece’s tourism sector as tourists factor wider global uncertainty into their travel plans.

Taking us to our “I am HALC” segment, this week we’re putting the spotlight on Jonathan Vasdekas. Jon walked through HALC’s doors in 2013, and since then has distinguished himself not only as a leader in the Greek-American community, where he was part of HALC's original class of Leadership 2030 fellows, but as a recognized leader in the energy sector. After stints with major players like Invenergy and Ørsted, where he worked on major renewable energy projects, he now serves as Executive Vice President of Development at Linea Energy.

A little more info on our guests:

Nikos Vettas is the general director of Greece’s Foundation for Economic and Industrial Research (IOBE) and a professor economics and business at Athens University.

John Psaropoulos is an independent journalist and Al Jazeera's correspondent in southeast Europe. He publishes Hellenica, a weekly deep dive into Greek current affairs and history that you can find on Substack.com.

Yiannis Tsakalos is a professsional with over 30 years of experience in tourism and hospitality. He has worked extensively with hotels and destinations across Greece, and played a key role in shaping tourism strategy at a national level, including contributing to the strategic planning of the Greek National Tourism Organization and the Ministry of Tourism during COVID, helping define the direction of the sector for the years that followed.

You can support The Greek Current by joining HALC as a member here.

Iran, the global energy crisis, and the case for permanently waiving the Cyprus arms embargo

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 13:34:41 +0000

With the war in Iran dragging on, its ripple effects are being felt around the world. Beyond the clear questions around regional security, stretching from the Middle East to Cyprus and the Eastern Mediterranean, we are also in the midst of what could be an unprecedented and escalating global energy crisis as strikes on international shipping in the strait of Hormuz, which is critical to the oil and gas industry, have essentially shut this vital chokepoint.

The war is also testing transatlantic unity, as President Trump warned in a recent interview with the Financial Times that “it will be very bad for the future of NATO” if European nations do not join the US in reopening the strait of Hormuz. So far, the message from European leaders is that this isn’t Europe’s war.

Despite this message, developments in the Middle East impact Europe, and the case of Cyprus is not only raising questions in Brussels about the EU’s ability to defend its own members, but in Washington as well, where the recent targeting of Cyprus is renewing efforts to permanently end the Cyprus arms embargo.

Ian Lesser, Zissis Marmarelis, Damian Murphy, and Endy Zemenides join Thanos Davelis this week as we look into Trump’s calls for Europe to join the US in the Straits of Hormuz, the unfolding global energy crisis and what it means for Greece, and why now is the time to end the Cyprus arms embargo.

Taking us to our “I am HALC” segment, we’re highlighting Lexy Prodromos, an emerging leader in the Greek-American community, where she is part of HALC’s class of Leadership 2030 fellows, and a recognized leader when it comes to blockchain technology who is now making waves both in the US and internationally as COO at the Prodromos Stem Cell Institute.

A little more info on our guests:

Ian Lesser is the vice president and Brussels chief of the German Marshall Fund of the United States.

Dr. Zissis Marmarelis is a Stavros Niarchos Foundation Academy Fellow at Chatham House with a focus on the geopolitics of energy.

Damian Murphy is the senior vice president for National Security and International Policy at the Center for American Progress.

Endy Zemenides is HALC's executive director.

You can support The Greek Current by joining HALC as a member here.

Storm clouds in the East Med? Turkey's escalation in Cyprus, Israel's offensive against Hezbollah, and Imamoglu's trial

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 13:06:38 +0000

This week kicked off with Turkey announcing the deployment of a number of fighter jets to the occupied part of Cyprus, a move that not only represents a significant escalation in the militarization of the Eastern Mediterranean, where Cyprus has already been targeted by Iranian-made drones, but that may also violate US law.

This isn’t the only thing putting Cyprus in the headlines this week. Axios and the Financial Times reported Cyprus could potentially mediate talks between Israel and Lebanon after violence broke out between Israel and the Hezbollah militant group.

Turkey’s moves in the Eastern Mediterranean aren’t the only thing worrying analysts and observers. Developments on the domestic front are also keeping those watching the region on alert, as the trial of Ekrem Imamoglu, the imprisoned mayor of Istanbul, kicked off this week. Imamoglu’s trial is largely seen as politically motivated and an effort to prevent him from challenging President Erdogan.

Sinan Ciddi, Elisa Ewers, Lisel Hintz, and Henri Barkey join Thanos Davelis this week as we take a closer look at Turkey’s decision to deploy fighter jets to the occupied part of Cyprus, Israel’s escalating offensive against Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the trial of Ekrem Imamoglu.

Taking us to our “I am HALC” segment, we’re spotlighting Eleni Delimpaltadaki Janis, a founding member of HALC with a career that spans across government and the private sector. This includes serving as Vice President at the New York City Economic Development Corporation, and working to transform and solve some of the world’s most persistent socio-economic problems as a founder of Equivico. Stay tuned as we dig into her story.

A little more info on our guests:

Sinan Ciddi is a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and director of its Turkey program.

Elisa Ewers is a senior fellow for Middle East Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations.

Lisel Hintz is an Assistant Professor of International Relations at Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies.

Henri Barkey is an adjunct senior fellow for Middle East studies at the Council on Foreign Relations and the Bernard L. and Bertha F. Cohen chair in international relations at Lehigh University (Emeritus).

You can support The Greek Current by joining HALC as a member here.

I am HALC: Dr. George Chiampas

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 6 Mar 2026 17:22:49 +0000

Given the incredible feedback we’ve gotten for our "I am HALC" profiles, we will re-release each feature as an individual episode so that you can easily find them and share them.

Today, we’re kicking off with our first “I am HALC” profile from January 15th, 2026, where we put the spotlight on Dr. George Chiampas, someone who is not just a national, but a global leader in emergency and sports medicine - whether it’s with US soccer, the Blackhawks, the Chicago Bears, the Chicago Marathon, and now the MLS - and is at the core of the work HALC does.

The Iran crisis, Cyprus on alert, and Macron's nuclear pivot

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 5 Mar 2026 18:22:02 +0000

On the last day of February the United States and Israel launched a major assault on Iran, killing the Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and sounding alarm bells across the region. Those sirens also went off in Cyprus, which saw Iranian-made drones target Britain’s Royal Air Force base at Akrotiri, prompting a response from Greece and other European partners who deployed ships, jets, and air defense systems to Cyprus. The strikes on Iran also caught European leaders unprepared, and there are many questions - which we will dig into - about whether Europe can play a constructive role here, or whether Washington has relegated it to the role of spectator.

At the same time, in another major development this week, French President Emanuel Macron announced that France - one of only two nuclear powers in Europe - would boost its nuclear arsenal and extend deterrence to European allies - including Greece.

Laurence Norman, Max Bergmann, Nektaria Stamouli, Vassilis Nedos, and Eleni Ekmektsioglou, join Thanos Davelis this week as we look at the US-Israeli strikes on Iran, what this crisis means for Europe, Greece and Cyprus, while breaking down the significance of President Macron’s historic update of France’s nuclear strategy, including how it will impact Greece.

A little more info on our guests:

Laurence Norman is a reporter for The Wall Street Journal who has covered Iran, Europe, and this ongoing crisis.

Max Bergmann is the director of the Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program and the Stuart Center in Euro-Atlantic and Northern European Studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

Nektaria Stamouli is the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini's English Edition and Politico's Eastern Mediterranean correspondent.

Vassilis Nedos is Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor.

Eleni Ekmektsioglou is a Policy fellow with the British American Security Information Council where she leads a project on emerging technologies and the future of anti-submarine warfare, is a non-resident fellow with ELIAMEP, and a member of the IFRI nuclear strategy network.

How Russia's invasion of Ukraine is changing Europe, reshaping the energy map, and affecting the Orthodox world

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 00:00:19 +0000

This week marked 4 years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and the start of a war that served as a wakeup call for Europe and the West. Since then, we’ve seen Europe take drastic steps to cut its ties to Russian gas, redrawing the region’s energy map. Greece has played, and continues to play, a key role in this story. At the same time, questions remain about European security, the continued Russian threat, and whether the Trump administration can deliver a negotiated peace. Finally, the war in Ukraine also brought the world’s attention to a murkier side of the Kremlin’s playbook, and that’s the weaponization of the Orthodox Church and its campaign to undermine the Ecumenical Patriarchate.

Ambassador Geoffrey Pyatt, Charles Kupchan, Elena Lazarou, and Aristotle Papanikolaou join Thanos Davelis this week for a deep dive into how Russia’s invasion of Ukraine four years ago has changed Europe, reshaped the region’s energy map, and impacted the Ecumenical Patriarchate and Orthodoxy around the world.

Taking us to our “I am HALC” segment, we’re putting the spotlight on Andreas Akaras, looking at his time on Capitol Hill and his work bringing Turkey to justice over the attack by Turkish President Erdogan’s bodyguards against US protesters in Washington, DC.

A little more info on our guests:

Elena Lazarou is the Director General of ELIAMEP and an expert specializing in EU foreign policy, global geopolitics, transatlantic relations, and security and defence issues.

Amb. Geoffrey Pyatt is former US ambassador to Greece and Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources.

Aristotle Papanikolaou is a Professor of Theology and the Archbishop Demetrios Chair in Orthodox Theology and Culture. He is Co-founding Director of the Orthodox Christian Studies Center at Fordham University.

You can support The Greek Current by joining HALC as a member here.

Greece looks east: Gaza, defense ties with Israel, and the 3+1

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 20:48:27 +0000

Over the past weeks we’ve seen some major developments in the region, with Greece stepping into the limelight. These include Greece’s announcement that it will send a special battalion to participate in the International Stabilization Force in Gaza, its decision to join the Board of Peace as an observer, and a key briefing hosted by the Eastern Mediterranean Knesset Caucus bringing together legislators and experts from Greece, Cyprus, Israel, and the US. At the same time, we’ve also seen Greece’s defense ties with Israel come under the spotlight as Athens looks to grow its own defense industrial base.

Tom Ellis, John Psaropoulos, Gregg Roman, and Endy Zemenides join Thanos Davelis this week as we dig into Greece’s decision to be part of the Gaza Stabilization Force and the Board of Peace, deepening Greek-Israeli defense ties, and the challenges and opportunities for the 3+1 partnership between Greece, Cyprus, Israel, and the US.

Taking us to our “I am HALC” segment, we’re taking a look at one of HALC’s emerging leaders and Leadership 2030 fellows, Alexis Nash, exploring how advocacy - on Hellenic issues and in her professional life - has become a key part of her story.

A little more info on our guests:

Tom Ellis is the editor in chief of Kathimerini's English Edition.

Gregg Roman is executive director of the Middle East Forum.

Endy Zemenides is executive director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council.

You can support The Greek Current by joining HALC as a member here.

A new age of economic warfare?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 19:32:38 +0000

About a year into President Trump’s second term, it seems he is on a mission to rewrite the rules of trade, one deal at a time. His Liberation Day tariffs last year rattled markets, and his insistence on using them as a tool to pressure both adversaries and allies has left many - especially in Europe - in disbelief and wondering what’s next.

Experts Edward Fishman, Maria Demertzis, Yiannis Mouzakis and Nick Malkoutzis join Thanos Davelis this week to take a closer look at this new age of economic warfare, and break down what it means for America’s global standing, how it’s spurring Europe into action, and what impact all of this could have on Greece.

Taking us to our “I am HALC” segment, we’re putting the spotlight on HALC’s Bill Thanoukos, who is launching a campaign for alderman of Chicago’s 1st Ward, and looking to continue a long tradition of Hellenes committing themselves to public service.

A little more info on our guests:

Edward Fishman is a Senior Fellow and Director of the Greenberg Center for Geoeconomic Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, and is the author of the New York Times bestseller Chokepoints: American Power in the Age of Economic Warfare.

Maria Demertzis is a Professor of Economic Policy at the European University Institute and leader of the Economy, Strategy, and Finance Center at the Conference Board Europe.

Yiannis Mouzakis and Nick Malkoutzis are the founders of Macropolis.gr, a political and economic analysis site that focuses on Greece.

You can support The Greek Current by joining HALC as a member here.

DC turns its attention to Greece and Cyprus

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 6 Feb 2026 13:36:18 +0000

Greece and Cyprus took center stage this week in Washington, DC, as HALC, the Delphi Economic Forum, and Kathimerini’s english edition once again brought top officials and leading experts together to highlight the important role both countries are playing in the Eastern Mediterranean, and the major opportunities - and challenges - ahead for Greece, Cyprus and the US. A few of the headline attendees included Cypriot Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos and Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias, who engaged with leading think tanks, members of Congress, and US officials.

Lena Argiri, Nik Nanos, and Vassilis Nedos join Thanos Davelis this week as we give you an inside look at what took place in DC, break down what the Greek brand is today and how to strengthen it, and shift to the Aegean where we explore how the 30 year anniversary of the Imia crisis still impacts Greek-Turkish relations.

Taking us to our “I am HALC” segment, we’re putting the spotlight on Dimitri Eliopoulos, the CEO of Curi Capital and a national leader in finance and wealth management.

You can support The Greek Current by joining HALC as a member here.

Peace in the Middle East? From Trump's "Board of Peace" to Syria's Kurds

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 18:47:23 +0000

Since its announcement, President Trump’s “Board of Peace” has made a number of headlines, and many in the region are asking if it can live up to its name, especially when it comes to the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians. As the President talks peace, he’s also raising the temperature with Iran, with a US aircraft carrier and warships approaching the region. More alarming however, is what seems to be an abandonment of Syria’s Kurds and the message it sends not just to America’s partners and allies, but to minorities in the region.

Thanos Davelis is joined by experts Aaron David Miller, Nadine Maenza, Sinan Ciddi, and Michael Rubin as we try to make sense of what’s going on in a region of particular importance to Greece and Cyprus.

Taking us to our “I am HALC” segment, this week we are dedicating it to the life and legacy of a giant in the Greek-American community, John Marks, who passed away this month. He was a man who not only poured himself into Greek causes, but helped build the community that we all cherish.

You can support The Greek Current by joining HALC as member here.

A new day for Greek and European security?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 18:24:45 +0000

Defense, security, peace, and alliances are top of mind these days. This is clear in Greece, where we saw Athens take a major step - one that Prime Minister Mitsotakis called historic - toward upgrading its defense capabilities as it welcomed its latest top of the line frigate. The move, however, comes as we see issues over Greenland raise new questions about European security and America’s commitment to the transatlantic relationship. This week, Thanos Davelis digs into what this means for Greece with Kathimerini’s Tom Ellis, ELIAMEP’s Elena Lazarou, journalist John Psaropoulos, and HALC’s Endy Zemenides. As we wrap up, pour yourself a glass as we’ll be highlighting the rise of Greek wines and the important role one of HALC’s very own - Ted Diamantis - has played in this story.

Is 2026 the year of uncertainty?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 13:14:16 +0000

The Greek Current is shifting from a daily show to a weekly program, allowing us to bring you deeper analysis and more cutting edge insights on Greece, Cyprus, our diaspora community, and the wider region. We’ll still bring you analysis from thought leaders on the breaking issues of the week, but will also introduce our very own “Meet the Press” roundtable featuring leading experts and journalists from around the world, and are introducing an “I am HALC” feature, where we put the spotlight on HALC members at the forefront of their fields.

This week we’re kicking off the year with a look ahead at 2026, featuring interviews with Kathimerini’s Editor in Chief Alexis Papachelas and the Council on Foreign Relations’ Steven Cook, analysis from Lena Argiri, Nektaria Stamouli, and Loukas Kozonis in our “Meet the Press” segment, and taking a closer look at someone who is not just a national, but a global leader in emergency and sports medicine - whether it’s with US soccer, the Blackhawks, the Chicago Bears, or at the Chicago Marathon - and is at the core of the work HALC does: Dr. George Chiampas.

An important note. As we move forward, access to our full episodes will be limited to paid HALC members and subscribers. If you’re not already a paid member of HALC, make sure to get your membership today so you don’t miss any of The Greek Current’s content. Also, please let us know what you think of the new format, and make sure to follow the Greek Current wherever you get your podcasts.

Greek concerns about Trump’s peace plan for Ukraine

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 13:28:34 +0000

Since it was introduced, President Trump’s peace plan for Ukraine has put many European leaders in a bind. With Turkey’s occupation of Cyprus in its 51st year, and amid open Turkish threats against Greece’s Aegean islands, Greece is also worried about the precedent this plan would set. John Psaropoulos joins Thanos Davelis as we break down these concerns, the latest comments by US Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack about resolving Greek-Turkish differences, and Greece’s efforts to aggressively court US investments.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Why Trump’s plan for Ukraine alarms the Greeks

Cyprus pitches plan to untangle Turkey tensions

Farmers’ protests escalate into third week

Protesting farmers present their demands

Erdogan's vision for Syria and the region

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 09:06:21 +0000

In a recent speech Turkish President Erdogan praised Syrians who were born and raised in Turkey, speak Turkish, and are now in Syria, saying, "Right next door to us… a brother nation that speaks our same language is rising anew from the ashes.” The quote has drawn the attention of experts like Ryan Gingeras, who joins Thanos Davelis as we look into what it tells us about Erdogan’s worldview, and why this is something to keep an eye on as we look at the shifting power dynamics in the Levant.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Erdogan praises Syrians born and raised in Turkey

From Grexit to Eurogroup chief: Greece’s recovery story

Pierrakakis elected Eurogroup chief

European Commission firmly behind Greece-Cyprus power link

A moment of truth for Europe?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 10:37:03 +0000

The Trump administration’s NSS - and its scathing critique of Europe - has drawn a lot of attention over the past days. Yet, this is only part of the big picture when we talk about the problems facing European leaders, which include everything from the war in Ukraine - where pressure is mounting - to a sluggish economy and the far right. Steven Erlanger, the chief diplomatic correspondent for The New York Times covering Europe, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the stakes Europe’s leaders face.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The Challenges to Europe’s Security Go Beyond Trump’s Lack of Support

Tom Barrack: Turkey has to give up the S-400 to return to F-35 program

Mounting pressure on farm policy

Blockades deepen political strain

PM holds talks with senior officials on farmer payments plan as protests escalate

Is Greece's digital transformation an example for others in Europe?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 10:49:28 +0000

The Economist just highlighted Greece as an example for countries looking to digitalize, recognizing the efforts Athens made between 2018 and 2024 to transform its public services and embrace the digital transformation. Diomidis Spinellis, a former Greek official now with the Athens University of Economics, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at this story.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece is teaching Germany how to get government online

The Greek economy’s drawbacks

Elefsina port tender coming

Is Turkey closer to F-35s and seeing CAATSA sanctions lifted?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 9 Dec 2025 11:37:37 +0000

This weekend we heard Hakan Fidan say he believes Ankara and Washington will find a way to remove CAATSA sanctions "very soon". His comments echo those of US Ambassador Tom Barrack, who was quoted saying that the “hurdle” blocking F-35 access for Turkey might be resolved within 4 to 6 months. Sinan Ciddi, a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and an expert on Turkish politics, joins Thanos Davelis as we look to break down why Barrack and Fidan insist a “solution” is within reach despite Turkey refusing to get rid of its Russian S-400s.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey Closer to Clearing Way for F-35s, Says Trump Ally Barrack

Turkey, US will find way of removing CAATSA sanctions ‘very soon’, Turkish FM says

Berlin-Athens migrant returns ‘understanding’

Iraklio airport resumes flights after farmers end protest

Protesting Greek farmers swarm onto airport tarmac in Crete, forcing halt to flights

The mother of all wake-up calls from Washington to Europe?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 8 Dec 2025 11:40:39 +0000

The Trump administration’s new National Security Strategy is causing a stir in Europe with its searing critique of America’s closest allies, including a warning that the continent is facing “civilizational decline”. Ian Lesser, the vice president and Brussels chief of the German Marshall Fund of the United States, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at what some are already calling the “mother of all wake-up calls” from Washington toward Europe.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Trump Administration Says Europe Faces ‘Civilizational Erasure’

Trump warns Europe faces ‘civilizational erasure’ in explosive new document

U.S. Flips History by Casting Europe—Not Russia—as Villain in New Security Policy

Farmers step up road blockades across Greece

PM urges farmers to scale back protests, promises payments by year-end

Turkey, US will find way of removing CAATSA sanctions ‘very soon’, Turkish FM says

Cyprus and Lebanon's "historic" maritime deal

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 5 Dec 2025 10:28:00 +0000

Last week Cyprus and Lebanon signed a long-awaited maritime demarcation deal, an agreement that not only paves the way for potential exploration and energy cooperation, but also checks Turkey’s revisionist “Blue Homeland” doctrine in the Eastern Mediterranean. Constantinos Filis, the director of the Institute of Global Affairs and a professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into what’s being called a “historic” deal that also serves to bridge the EU with the Middle East.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Cyprus–Lebanon deal sets new legal line in the Eastern Med, and Ankara isn’t loving it

Lebanon, Cyprus sign maritime deal, paving way for possible energy exploration

Greece, Bulgaria and Romania sign agreement on Aegean-Black Sea corridor

Cyprus pledges Ukraine will be ''front and center” during EU presidency

Greek farmers take to the streets in protest

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 4 Dec 2025 11:25:54 +0000

Greek farmers are making headlines amid an escalating confrontation with the government, as thousands of tractors continue to block traffic on highways and at border crossings. What began as a dispute over delayed EU-backed subsidy payments linked to a corruption scandal is quickly turning into a political test for the government. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder of Macropolis.gr, joins Thanos Davelis to break down the stakes as farmers take to the streets.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Farmers dig in as clashes and political tension escalate

Farmers not going anywhere as protest action persists

Christodoulides rolls into Kyiv for face-to-face talks with Zelensky

US presses Athens on Ukraine fund

What’s Tom Barrack up to?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 3 Dec 2025 12:40:33 +0000

What’s Tom Barrack, the US Ambassador to Turkey, up to? That’s a question that’s emerged after a recent interview he gave to Kathimerini, where he talked about Washington’s aspiration for a “new regional ordinance” and made head-scratching comments about Greek-Turkish relations and Cyprus. Henri Barkey and Endy Zemenides join Thanos Davelis as we look to tackle this question.

Henri Barkey is an adjunct senior fellow for Middle East studies at the Council on Foreign Relations and the Cohen chair in international relations at Lehigh University.

Endy Zemenides is Executive Director of HALC.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The US ‘goal’ is to serve as a ‘bridge’ in Greek-Turkish ties

PM urges farmers to avoid roadblocks, pledges faster subsidy payments

Greece to repay €5.29 billion early under first memorandum loans

Greece's bet on AI

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 2 Dec 2025 10:25:11 +0000

As countries around the world scramble to see who is going to win the AI race, Greece is also looking to secure its own AI future. Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ emphasis on AI, coupled by signature deals with OpenAI and Mistral AI, is putting a spotlight on Greece’s efforts to play a larger role on the AI frontier. Niko Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into these developments and explore the ways Greece is betting on AI.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Mitsotakis meets Mistral AI CEO to discuss AI collaboration

Watch: Συζήτηση Κυριάκου Μητσοτάκη με τον Arthur Mensch | GenAI Summit

Greece joins EU defense program

Farmers blockade highways over payments

From Cyprus to Ukraine

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 1 Dec 2025 12:01:40 +0000

With talks over a deal to end the Russia-Ukraine war moving along, the latest peace proposals have caught the attention of many, including Cyprus, where Turkey’s 51 year illegal occupation serves as a stark reminder of what happens when revisionist powers are not checked. Harris Georgiades, the Chairman of the Foreign and European Affairs Committee of the Cypriot Parliament, a former Minister of Finance, and the chairman of the Clerides Institute, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at these peace talks, the parallels between what Russia is doing in Ukraine and what Turkey has done for over 50 years in Cyprus, and more.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Rubio Says ‘Much Work to Do’ After Talks With Ukrainian Delegation

EU tells Trump: You can’t pardon Putin for war crimes in Ukraine

Γράμμα από το Κίεβο

Europe Fears It Can’t Catch Up in Great Power Competition

Lebanon, Cyprus sign maritime deal, paving way for possible energy exploration

Joint declaration signed in Pope’s historic first visit to Patriarchate

Are Greece and Israel's deepening defense ties an opportunity for Washington?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 09:55:54 +0000

Two of America’s key Mediterranean partners, Greece and Israel, are deepening their defense and security ties, a trend that extends beyond arms sales to joint exercises. The move comes amid Turkish provocations and as US interests in the Mediterranean, particularly on energy security, are growing. The Foundation for Defense of Democracies’ Ryan Brobst and Justin Leopold-Cohen join Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at Greece and Israel’s growing defense ties and the opportunities it presents for the region and the US.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Eyeing Turkey, Israel and Greece Work To Deepen Defense Ties

Pope Leo XIV visits Turkey and Lebanon on first foreign trip

Pope Leo to take peace message to Turkey, Lebanon on first overseas trip

Greek households’ real incomes still below 2004 levels

Could Turkey re-open Halki, or is this the song that never ends?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:16:47 +0000

Halki Theological Seminary, shut by Turkey in 1971, is back in the headlines ahead of Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Turkey. Journalists are reporting that there is a sense of optimism that Turkey will reopen the school. This attention on Halki follows a renewed focus on Orthodox Christianity that includes the Ecumenical Patriarch’s visit to the White House, references to the Russian Orthodox Church in Trump’s Ukraine peace plan, and questions about whether the Russians are running an influence operation in DC. Endy Zemenides, HALC's Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis as we break all of this down.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Optimism ahead of pope’s visit to Turkey for reopening of Istanbul’s Greek Orthodox seminary

‘We must strive for unity of the churches’

White House to meet clergy with ties to pro-war Russian Orthodox Church

Are the Russians Running an Influence Operation in Congress?

Greek secondary school teachers to be trained in using AI in classroom

Turkish delegation meets Ocalan for first time to discuss PKK disarmament

Trump's 28-point plan to end the war in Ukraine

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 11:45:23 +0000

Last week we got a look at the details of President Trump’s 28 point plan for an end to the war in Ukraine, with the President setting a Thursday deadline for Ukraine - where many see the proposed plan as a capitulation - to agree to it. US and Ukrainian officials met on Sunday in Geneva, with the White House hailing talks as constructive. Paul Stares, the director of the Center for Preventive Action and coordinator for the "Special Initiative on Securing Ukraine's Future" at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into this plan and what it means for Ukraine, Europe, and NATO.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Trump Peace Plan Demands Major Concessions From Ukraine

Ukraine and U.S. Cite Progress in Talks on Ending War With Russia

Trump's growing impatience to end Ukraine war is a concern for Kyiv

PM says new energy initiatives boost Greece’s geopolitical role

Optimism ahead of pope’s visit to Turkey for reopening of Istanbul’s Greek Orthodox seminary

Who are the "Orthobros" flocking to the Orthodox Church in the US?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 11:54:39 +0000

The New York Times just ran a piece about a wave of new converts to Orthodox Christianity in the US, especially among young conservative men, the so-called “Orthobros”. The trend is largely driven by hard-line influencers on YouTube and other social media platforms, and has put parishes in uncharted territory. George Demacopoulos, the co-director of the Orthodox Christian Studies Center at Fordham University, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into the “Orthobro” phenomenon and what it means for the church.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Orthodox Church Pews Are Overflowing With Converts

An ‘exceptional’ brand looking for a new identity

Mitsotakis: Greece aims for ‘win-win’ with US without undoing China deals

Russia's hybrid war on Europe

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 10:46:37 +0000

This week Italy’s defense minister accused Russia of waging a hybrid war on the continent, while Poland's Donald Tusk said that Russia was behind an explosion on Saturday on a railway line used to transport weapons to Ukraine. This is pushing Europe to take additional steps to beef up its defense amid wider concerns that Russia could take these hybrid attacks a step further. Charles Kupchan, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and expert on Europe, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into Russia’s hybrid attacks on Europe, asking the question whether Russia could escalate.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

EU Proposes Multibillion-Euro Plan to Boost Military Mobility, Defense Tech Amid Russia Tensions

How the EU plans to get troops and weapons across the continent to deter Russia

‘We are under attack’: Italian defense minister accuses Russia of waging hybrid war

Poland plans to charge 2 Ukrainians with sabotage of terrorist nature for railway explosion

China lashes out against US’s Greece ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle

President Christodoulides to meet with newly elected Turkish-Cypriot leader

Cyprus’ expanding partnership with the US

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 10:42:14 +0000

Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos met with Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington this week, with the foreign minister stressing how the relationship with the US is “a compass” in Cyprus’ foreign policy. Evangelos Savva, the Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to the United States, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down the significance of this meeting, and look at the message it sends about ever-deepening US-Cyprus ties.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

US and Cyprus reaffirm deepening ties

US-backed Elefsina port plan advances

Athens and Kyiv seal naval drone deal

Are Europe's problem economies now in the north?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 10:25:00 +0000

The Wall Street Journal ran a story earlier this month highlighting how the problem economies in Europe are no longer in the south, but in the north, with France and Germany dealing with budget deficits and debt while the former crisis hot spots like Greece look financially healthier. Mij Rahman, managing director for Europe at the Eurasia Group, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at this story.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Europe’s Role Reversal: The Problem Economies Are Now Farther North

Kombos highlights Cyprus’ growing value to the U.S.

PM says government will allocate over 2 billion euros to support incomes

Ukraine secures US energy via Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 12:13:09 +0000

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was just in Athens on Sunday, signing an agreement with Greece for gas imports ahead of what’s expected to be a tough winter. John Psaropoulos joins Thanos Davelis as we look at this agreement, which comes days after Greece signed landmark energy deals with the US, and which puts Greece’s role in supporting both Ukraine and Europe’s effort to break its dependence on Russian gas in the spotlight.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Ukraine secures winter gas support from Greece

Cyprus urges Turkey to drop two-state demand to advance EU bid

Athens tightens security as events peak for Polytechnic uprising anniversary

President marks 52 years since Polytechnic uprising

Greece's landmark energy deal with Exxon

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 11:37:43 +0000

Last week’s deal between ExxonMobil, Energean and Helleniq Energy for exploration and drilling in the Ionian Sea generated a lot of buzz both in Greece and - as we saw at P-TEC in Athens - among US officials. This move comes as another US energy giant, Chevron, is also engaging with Greece and Cyprus. Energy expert Dr. Theodoros Tsakiris joins Thanos Davelis to break down why these deals could be game-changing for Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Exxon enters Greece with gas deal that expands US footprint in eastern Med

Greece names Chevron, Helleniq Energy consortium as preferred bidder for offshore gas search

Fresh push for Greece-Cyprus cable

New US ambassador says Greece key to countering Russian and Chinese influence

Is a new political party on the horizon in Greece?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 12:09:49 +0000

In a recent interview former Prime Minister Antonis Samaras - who was expelled from New Democracy a year ago - took a swing at the government, and many are asking not if, but when he will form a new party. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English edition, joins Thanos Davelis as we explore what this could mean for Greece’s ruling party and Greek politics.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Samaras critical of Mitsotakis, closer to forming a new party

Greece, Cyprus, Spain and Italy eligible for new help dealing with migration, EU says

Europe should align with Donald Trump on Middle East strategy, Cyprus says

From wanted terrorist to statesman: Trump hosts Syria's al-Sharaa at the White House

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 11:09:08 +0000

In a move that no one could have seen coming a year ago, President Trump hosted Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa - formerly on Washington’s list of wanted terrorists - at the White House this week. Thanos Davelis is joined by Aaron David Miller, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and expert on the Middle East, as we look into al-Sharaa’s transformation and the message this meeting sends about US priorities in the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Syria’s President Meets Trump at White House for First Time

Syria to join US-led coalition to defeat IS group after Trump meeting

Pivotal U.S. Summit Could Help Mend a Fractured Syria

Power link’s European shield

Turkey demands more than 2,000 years in jail for popular Istanbul mayor

Is Greece entering a new chapter as America's energy gateway?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 10:47:23 +0000

Energy is at the heart of the US-Greece relationship these days, especially with a landmark offshore gas exploration deal with ExxonMobil and a 20-year LNG agreement with the US. Thanos Davelis is joined by Ambassador Geoffrey Pyatt, as we look at how energy is driving US-Greece relations forward, and how it’s giving the 3+1 partnership of Greece, Cyprus, Israel and the US a new boost.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece deepens US energy ties with first gas exploration deal in 40 years

Greece, US ink 20-year LNG contract

‘Achilles’ Shield’ defense program moving forward again

Syrian President Sharaa arrives at White House in historic first

Syria’s President Meets Trump at White House for First Time

Saint Catherine’s Monastery, UNESCO, and the politics of heritage

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 10:25:58 +0000

The election of Egypt’s Khaled El-Enany as the new Director General of UNESCO and the recent announcement from Prime Minister Mitsotakis that Greece and Egypt have worked to preserve the status of Saint Catherine’s Monastery at Mount Sinai have put cultural heritage in the spotlight. Dr. Elizabeth Prodromou, an expert on religious freedom issues and cultural heritage, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into these developments, the concerns around El-Enany’s election, and the broader use of cultural heritage as a geopolitical tool.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Khaled El-Enany elected Director-General of UNESCO

Egypt's Enany set to lead UNESCO despite criticism of heritage record at home

PM: Greece and Egypt have safeguarded spiritual character of Sinai Monastery

Greece, US ink 20-year LNG contract

UAE envoy says aid to Gaza will be scaled up, Cyprus is key route

A "new juncture" in the Kurdish peace process?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 7 Nov 2025 11:05:54 +0000

This week President Erdogan said Turkey had entered a ‘new juncture’ in the Kurdish peace process, signalling he was open to the idea of jailed PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan addressing lawmakers. In another startling move, he also suggested that he was open to the release of the jailed Kurdish politician Selahattin Demirtaş. Lisel Hintz, Assistant Professor of International Relations at Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies and an expert on Turkey, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what these steps could mean for the Kurdish peace process.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Erdoğan says Turkey has entered ‘new juncture’ in Kurdish peace process

Ionian Sea gas exploration deal a ‘vote of confidence’

Greece deepens US energy ties with first gas exploration deal in 40 years

Ankara dismisses Eurofighter use conditions

Turkey's pivot to Africa and the arms sales fueling instability

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 6 Nov 2025 10:05:51 +0000

Turkey has been expanding its diplomatic, economic, and security footprint in Africa over the past decade. A surge in arms sales is now raising alarms, as Turkish arms - primarily drones - end up in conflict zones and in the hands of unaccountable actors. William Doran, the co-author of the recent Foreign Policy Magazine piece “How Turkish Arms End Up In African Conflicts”, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why Ankara’s engagement on the continent is generating violence, not stability.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

How Turkish Arms End Up in African Conflicts

Mitsotakis meets new US ambassador, highlights energy and investment ties

US-Greece strategic cooperation deepening

Turkey’s Gaza ambitions alarm Israel

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 5 Nov 2025 10:24:06 +0000

Turkey is eager to capitalize on its role in the Gaza ceasefire, and is now looking to have an active presence - even with troops on the ground - in a post-war Gaza. It seems President Trump also sees a role for Turkey here, something that is alarming Israel. Henri Barkey, an adjunct senior fellow for Middle East studies at the Council on Foreign Relations and the Cohen chair in international relations at Lehigh University, joins Thanos Davelis to take a closer look at this story, breaking down what it means for Washington and the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Trump sees central role for Turkey in Gaza peace, but Israel is crying foul

Greece scrambles to secure farm funds

Water overuse has led Cyprus to shortages

The person to shake up Greek politics?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 4 Nov 2025 10:56:08 +0000

An unlikely figure, Maria Karystianou, is at the heart of political speculation in Greece. Local media is filled with rumors that the mother of one of the victims of the deadly Tempe train crash and figurehead of a wave of protests that followed may enter politics, and polling shows she could draw in significant support. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder of Macropolis.gr, joins Thanos Davelis to look at this story, and break down what it tells us about the state of Greek politics today.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greeks look to grieving mother in search for a political savior

Karystianou denies reports she is launching political party

US Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle meets embassy staff in Athens

New US ambassador to meet Gerapetritis

Mussels reveal growing microplastic pollution in Greece's prized seas

Can energy diplomacy give the “3+1” a new boost?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 3 Nov 2025 11:50:38 +0000

Last week we looked into the US quest for energy dominance and what it means for Greece. This week energy is back on the agenda, as Greece plays host to top energy officials from the US, Cyprus, and Israel. These meetings also mark the first official appearance of US Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle in Athens. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis as we explore whether energy diplomacy can give the “3+1” partnership a new boost, and what it means for the bilateral relationship to have a new US ambassador in Athens.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Energy diplomacy brings 3+1 format back to life

PM: Greece and Egypt have safeguarded spiritual character of Sinai Monastery

Karystianou denies reports she is launching political party

Why it's time to revive the IMEEC corridor, and how Greece and Cyprus can play a key role

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 10:35:17 +0000

A little over 2 years ago, the October 7th attack by Hamas shifted the world’s attention away from the newly announced India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, or IMEEC, a project Greece and Cyprus are also vying to play a key role in. With the Israel-Gaza ceasefire in place, is it now time to revive this project? Michael Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and director of policy analysis at the Middle East Forum, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why it’s time to refocus on IMEEC, and how Greece and Cyprus have the potential to be crucial lynchpins in this project.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

For India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor to succeed, Delhi must invest more in Greece and Cyprus

River diversions to end Attica drought risk

Merz backs Turkey's EU bid despite strains over Gaza, rights

Turkey and Germany must focus on joint defence projects, Erdogan says

Turkey's multibillion dollar Eurofighter deal

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 10:58:35 +0000

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer just called Turkey’s purchase of 20 Eurofighter jets - a deal that has gotten a lot of attention - a “landmark moment.” This move comes as Turkey looks to fill gaps in its aging air-force, and as Ankara attempts to make up ground with countries like Greece and Israel. Ryan Gingeras, a professor in the Department of National Security Affairs at the Naval Postgraduate School and an expert on Turkish, Balkan, and Middle East history, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down what Turkey is actually getting in this deal, and what it means for the region.

The views expressed by Professor Gingeras in this interview do not reflect the views of the US government.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

UK signs £8bn Typhoon fighter jet deal with Turkey

Turkey signs deal to buy 20 Eurofighters from Britain for 8 bln pounds

War memorial under 24-hour police guard

Schools close and island life is under threat as Greece reckons with low birth rates

Greece and the US path to energy dominance

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 10:51:03 +0000

Energy has become a critical piece of the puzzle for the Trump administration as it looks to project strength abroad, and it seems Greece is on Washington’s radar. Richard Goldberg, a senior advisor at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and director of its newly established Energy and National Security Program, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at America’s quest for energy dominance and the potential for deeper cooperation on this front with Greece and other countries in the Eastern Mediterranean.

The Greek diaspora in the US and the story of "OXI"

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 10:42:23 +0000

As we’ve seen time and time again in the past, the Greek diaspora has always played a key role in standing with Greece in its time of need. World War II was no exception. As Greeks delivered their famous “Ohi” - or “NO” to the Axis powers on October 28th, 1940, Greek-Americans also stepped up to the plate. Professor Alexander Kitroeff, a historian and expert on the Greek diaspora, joins Thanos Davelis as we explore how Greek-Americans took action, and how “Ohi” became a turning point for the Greeks in the US.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Parades marking World War II campaign to close streets in Athens, Thessaloniki

Turkey signs deal to buy 20 Eurofighters from Britain for 8 bln pounds

UK signs £8bn Typhoon fighter jet deal with Turkey

Best year for Cyprus tourism ever

Are Trump's latest sanctions bringing the US and Europe into alignment on Russia?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 11:58:55 +0000

Last week President Trump hit Russia’s biggest oil producers - Rosneft and Lukoil - with sanctions, a move many see as a major shift from the Trump administration that puts it on the same page as Europe when it comes to pressuring Moscow. Laurence Norman, the European reporter for The Wall Street Journal, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at this shift from President Trump and break down what it means for Europe and the war in Ukraine.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

U.S. Oil Sanctions Strike at Russia’s Economic Lifeline

Three Years of War in Ukraine: Are Sanctions Against Russia Making a Difference?

Burgum highlights Greece’s role in reducing Europe’s dependence on Russian gas

Powering U.S. Energy Dominance with Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum

Turkey court orders arrest of Istanbul's jailed mayor for 'political espionage'

The British Museum's glitzy gala and the Parthenon Sculptures

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 10:12:05 +0000

The British Museum has once again stirred controversy with its latest “Pink Ball” dinner gala taking place in the hall housing the Parthenon Sculptures, a move that has elicited strong reactions from both Greece, cultural heritage experts, and leading advocates for the return of the Parthenon Sculptures to Greece. Professor Paul Cartledge, the Vice chairman of the British Committee for the Reunification of the Parthenon Marbles and a renowned scholar of ancient Greek history, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down why the British Museum’s glitzy gala only adds to the reunification cause.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece criticizes British Museum dinner among Parthenon Sculptures

British Museum glitzy gala ball, Janet Suzman agrees with Greece and suggests that the publicity adds to the reunification cause

Greek leader pushes EU on joint defense debt

Greece acts on housing crunch as shortages pile pressure on government

Calling out Turkey's spurious claims in the Aegean

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 09:44:40 +0000

Earlier this month we saw Turkey issue a NAVTEX, or a navigational text message warning, for research in the Aegean Sea, a provocative move called out by Greece. This has once again put Turkey’s disregard for international law and contempt for Greece’s sovereignty in the spotlight. Elizabeth Samson, an international lawyer and Writing Fellow at the Middle East Forum whose work has appeared in major outlets like the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal, joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into why it’s important to call out Turkey’s spurious claims over the Aegean.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Europe and United States Must Deny Turkey’s Spurious Claims Over the Aegean

Gaza reconstruction: Cyprus has a plan

Senate Foreign Relations Committee extends lifting of Cyprus arms embargo from annual renewal period to 5 year period

Bipartisan US push to extend Cyprus defense access

What does Erhurman’s win mean for Cyprus?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 10:43:26 +0000

Turkish Cypriots went to the polls in the occupied northern part of Cyprus this weekend, electing a reportedly moderate candidate in Tufan Erhurman. His landslide victory, unseating hard-line incumbent Ersin Tatar, has led to cautious optimism that talks on the reunification of Cyprus could resume. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini's English Edition and Politico's Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down the key takeaways from this election.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkish Cypriots elect moderate leader in crucial policy switch

Nicosia weighs Turkish-Cypriot leader change

Turkey pressing for Western fighter jets to claw back regional edge

Dozens arrested in OPEKEPE subsidy fraud bust across Greece

Europe's demographic challenge and migration

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 11:44:36 +0000

An issue that’s been top of mind in Greece for some time now is the demographic crisis. This isn’t unique to Greece, however, as it’s a problem most of Europe is also looking for answers to. Jacob Funk Kirkegaard, a Senior Fellow at Bruegel and a non-resident Senior Fellow with the Peterson Institute for International Economics, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at how an aging population is challenging Europe, and why migration remains an important part of the equation.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The macroeconomic impact of ageing, EU immigration policy and pension expenditures

Mitsotakis calls for united European defense, energy strategy at MED9 summit

Erdogan heads to Gulf as Turkey looks to ease energy dependence on Russia

Europe's new pact for the Mediterranean, its drone wall, and SAFE

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 12:11:00 +0000

A few big headlines have come out of Brussels recently, including the presentation of the EU’s new "Pact for the Mediterranean", its executive body approving a 5-year defense road map that features plans for a “drone wall”, and the debate about Turkey’s participation in the SAFE program. Alexandra Voudouri, Kathimerini’s Brussels correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into these developments and what they mean for Greece and Cyprus.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

EU presents new pact to reshape relations with Mediterranean countries

EU scramble for anti-Russia ‘drone wall’ hits political, technical hurdles

European Commission Unveils 'Drone Wall' Plans As Part Of 5-Year Defense Road Map

Wadephul: Turkey ‘must solve its problems in the region’

Newfound optimism for resumption of Cyprus talks

FM Gerapetritis hopeful for an agreement on Mt Sinai monastery

Erdogan's ambitions in a post-war Gaza

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 10:10:09 +0000

While celebrating the Gaza ceasefire agreement in Egypt, President Trump made a point to single out Turkey’s President Erdogan, thanking him for his role in bringing about this deal. Erdogan is now eager to leverage this praise in order to become a key player in shaping Gaza's future. Can he achieve this? Sinan Ciddi, a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and an expert on Turkish politics, joins Thanos Davelis as we look to answer this question, breaking down Turkey’s role in this ceasefire, Erdogan’s ambitions in Gaza, and what the Trump administration should be looking out for when dealing with Turkey here.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Erdogan's Turkey Wants to Be a Key Player in Post-war Gaza. It's a Fantasy

Trump signals new trust in Erdogan, raising concerns over Turkey’s ambitions in Gaza and beyond

Greece revives Eastern Med forum plan

Controversial labor bill passed by Parliament with government majority

Turkey's politically motivated asset grab?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 11:18:01 +0000

A recent report in the Financial Times has outlined how a state fund in Turkey has become one of the country’s largest business holdings, controlling over 1,000 companies. This comes in the wake of an anti-corruption drive that moved hundreds of private companies into government hands, raising the question: Is this asset grab politically-motivated? Wolfango Piccoli, the co-founder of risk analysis company Teneo, joins Thanos Davelis today as we dig into this story.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Crackdown or capital grab? Turkey state fund controls 1,000 businesses

Greece reaffirms stance on Turkey’s participation in EU SAFE program

Athens faces two drone fronts

Inside Greece’s 2026 budget

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 10:33:38 +0000

Greece’s government recently tabled its budget for 2026, a budget that foresees a jump in spending, growth for the economy, and a drop in Greece’s debt. Yiannis Mouzakis, the co-founder of Macropolis.gr, joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into Greece’s budget, looking at some of the positive trends like increased revenue from electronic payments and Greece’s declining debt, while breaking down some of the potential challenges Greece still needs to pay attention to.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

State spending to jump €5 bln next year

Government budgeting on a late RRF sprint

Lawmakers in fervent clash over 13-hour workday

In EU first, Greece set to introduce 13-hour workday

PKK leader Ocalan appeals to Iraqi Kurdistan president for help in Turkey peace talks

Does Europe need to adjust to a weaker France?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 10:12:07 +0000

It’s safe to say President Macron has shown he is one of Europe’s most important leaders, but domestic challenges seem to be undercutting him on the global stage. Steven Erlanger, the chief diplomatic correspondent for The New York Times covering Europe, joins Thanos Davelis as we look to answer what this means for Macron and France, but also for Europe, especially as the continent looks to meet challenges ranging from defense spending to Ukraine.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

France’s Domestic Instability Has Weakened Its Diplomatic Clout

'Now the rebuilding begins,' says Trump as he signs Gaza peace plan

Mitsotakis meets Trump ahead of Gaza summit

Trump, Christodoulides discuss Cyprus issue at Gaza summit

Greece and Cyprus join Gaza peace summit in Egypt

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 10:28:59 +0000

World leaders - including Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and President Nikos Christodoulides - are meeting today in Egypt to cement a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, and to help lay the foundations for broader regional stability. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English edition, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at why the Greek and Cypriot presence at this summit matters, and break down how Athens and Nicosia can play a stabilizing role here.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece to participate in Gaza peace summit in Egypt, Mitsotakis announces

Trump and el-Sisi to lead Gaza Peace Summit in Egypt; Greece and Cyprus among invited nations

EU wants Turkey to be part of SAFE

EU begins gradual rollout of digital border system

Cyprus' air defense upgrade and Erdogan's hypocritical outrage

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 10:17:46 +0000

Last month Turkey's President Erdogan and his loyalists blasted Cyprus for its purchase of Israeli Barak MX air defense systems, claiming it was a threat to Turkey, all while Turkish media has announced Ankara plans to send more occupation troops to Cyprus. William Doran, the co-author of the recent piece in Kathimerini titled “Erdogan’s imagined ‘arms race’ in Cyprus”, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at Erdogan’s hypocritical outrage here, and break down why Cyprus’ decision to upgrade its air defense systems in fact strengthens Eastern Mediterranean security.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Erdogan’s imagined ‘arms race’ in Cyprus

Greece hails ‘historic agreement’ over Gaza

Turkey emerges as key player in Gaza ceasefire deal

Third-country buyers grab Cyprus realtyCy

Greeks lead Europe in hours worked

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 9 Oct 2025 09:46:56 +0000

The latest European data shows that Greeks are working many more hours than their European counterparts, with one in five Greeks working more than 45 hours a week. This data comes amid wider discussions about productivity in Greece’s economy, developments in AI, and recent moves by the government to introduce a 6 day workweek and a 13-hour work day. Nikos Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author, joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into this story.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greeks work the longest in EU

General strike against 13-hour work day brings Greece to a halt

Greece's new 6-day workweek law takes effect, bucking a trend

Greece’s success ‘an example’ for Germany

Athens watching Turkey moves for signs of aggression

Greece and Cyprus in the post-October 7th world

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 8 Oct 2025 10:58:04 +0000

Two years ago, on October 7th, the Middle East was upended after Hamas’ deadly attack against Israel. This had a clear ripple effect across the Eastern Mediterranean as well, impacting Greece and Cyprus. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at the monumental shifts ushered in two years ago on October 7, and where they leave Greece and Cyprus today.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

PM: Greece ready to support diplomatic efforts for peace in Gaza

Déjà Vu or a Peace Breakthrough in Gaza?

Erdogan hopes for resolution on sanctions, F-35s, Halkbank after Trump talks

Turkey floated $100 million Halkbank settlement idea at White House last month, sources say

SYRIZA MPs ready to follow ex-leader

Is a Tsipras comeback in the cards?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 7 Oct 2025 11:06:44 +0000

The headline political news coming out of Greece this week is former Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras’ resignation as a SYRIZA MP, a move that has many wondering if it’s only a matter of time before Tsipras announces a new party. The news also comes as polls and surveys show a lack of confidence among voters in the political system. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at whether Tsipras is angling for a comeback and what impact this could have on Greece’s political scene.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Tsipras quits as MP; new party ahead?

Greeks crying out for political change but doubt it will happen, poll finds

Greece Forecasts Debt Ratio for 2025 to Reach Pre-Bailout Low

A deal to let Turkey's Halkbank off the hook?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 6 Oct 2025 09:48:39 +0000

Recent reports, primarily in Bloomberg, indicate that Turkey anticipates a settlement to the Halkbank issue that would allow the bank - indicted in 2019 for conspiracy to evade US sanctions on Iran to the tune of tens of billions of dollars - to avoid a protracted legal fight and pay what it called a “manageable” fine. Thanos Davelis digs into this story with Jonathan Schanzer, the Executive Director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, as we look at the message such a settlement would send to others around the world about the seriousness of US sanctions.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey Anticipates Manageable Fine to Settle Halkbank-US Dispute

PM: Greece ready to support diplomatic efforts for peace in Gaza

Former PM Tsipras resigns as MP, pledges continued political activism

A new page in US-Greece relations?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 3 Oct 2025 10:37:15 +0000

Kimberley Guilfoyle, the first woman to serve as US ambassador to Greece, was sworn in this week, and is expected in Athens soon. With the US-Greece relationship at historic heights, Ambassador Guilfoyle is now in a position to take it a step further. Endy Zemenides, HALC’s Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at both the opportunities and the potential pitfalls that Ambassador Guilfoyle needs to be aware of as she looks to add her mark to the bilateral relationship.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

New US ambassador to Greece sworn in

Endy Zemenides on X: Promises and pitfalls Ambassador Guilfoyle needs to be wary of

EU subsidy fraud isn’t just a Greek problem, it’s everywhere, warns top prosecutor

General strike against 13-hour work day brings Greece to a halt

Greece, Piraeus, and the US-China power struggle

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 2 Oct 2025 10:28:14 +0000

US officials and lawmakers seem to be increasingly concerned about China's global network of ports, including Greece’s port of Piraeus, and reports indicate the Trump administration is on a mission to weaken Beijing’s hand here. Dr. Elizabeth Economy, an acclaimed author and expert on Chinese domestic and foreign policy and a former senior advisor for China in the Department of Commerce, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into this dimension of the US-China power struggle, breaking down what it means for Greece and the Eastern Mediterranean.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

U.S. targets China's grip on global ports in sweeping maritime mission

US monitoring Piraeus Port

Gov’t unveils ‘bold’ military overhaul

US committed to bizonal, bicommunal federation in Cyprus

Is Turkey's KAAN fighter jet hostage to US sanctions?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 1 Oct 2025 10:01:37 +0000

Turkey has been scrambling to contain the fallout from comments made by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan recently, who said that Turkey’s hyped-up KAAN fighter jet couldn’t be produced because of US CAATSA sanctions. He even said Ankara would seek alternative solutions if CAATSA is not lifted. Aaron Stein, the President of the Foreign Policy Research Institute, joins Thanos Davelis today as we explore whether Turkey’s KAAN fighter - and its defense industry at large - is hostage to CAATSA sanctions.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey scrambles to contain fallout after Fidan says KAAN jet dependent on US

Turkey to seek alternatives if US fails to lift CAATSA sanctions, Fidan says

Christodoulides vows support for Great Sea Interconnector project

Common Greek-US plan on shipping American LNG in the next few months

Turkey’s long-standing threat of war against Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 09:56:46 +0000

While in New York for the UN General Assembly, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis made a point to highlight Turkey’s long-standing threat of war against Greece - or the casus belli as it’s widely known - urging Ankara to finally lift it. John Psaropoulos joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into Turkey’s 30-year threat of war against Greece, which doesn’t only hang over Greek-Turkish relations like a dark cloud, but has wider implications for Europe, NATO, and the US.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

PM urges Turkey to lift war threat

Greece is leveraging defence tech to bring Turkey to arbitration

New US ambassador to Greece sworn in

ExxonMobil’s big finding off Cyprus

Revival of a bromance? Trump hosts Erdogan at the White House

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 09:56:04 +0000

Turkish President Erdogan finally made his way back into the White House last week, meeting with President Trump as issues like the F-35s, the lifting of CAATSA sanctions, and Turkey’s purchase of Russian oil topped the list. Alan Makovsky, a senior fellow for the Center for American Progress and an expert on Turkey and US foreign policy, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down whether we’re seeing the revival of a bromance between the two leaders, and look at what this means for key issues like the sale of F-35s.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Trump urges Turkey to stop buying Russian oil as Erdogan chases deal on F-35s

Erdogan hails 'meaningful progress' in his talks with Trump

Labor market opens up to refugees

PM urges Turkey to lift war threat

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew’s US visit puts religious freedom, dialogue, and peace-building in the spotlight

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 10:07:09 +0000

While the world focuses on the UN General Assembly, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew has also been in the US, holding key meetings in Washington and New York with President Trump, members of Congress, and world leaders. At the same time, his visit put a spotlight on the important role the Ecumenical Patriarch has played and continues to play on the environment, interfaith dialogue, and peacebuilding. Elizabeth Prodromou and Aristotle Papanikolaou join Thanos Davelis as we dig into Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew’s recent visit to the US.

Dr. Elizabeth Prodromou is a previous Vice Chair and Commissioner on the US Commission on International Religious Freedom and Visiting Professor in the International Studies Program at Boston College.

Aristotle Papanikolaou is the Archbishop Demetrios Chair in Orthodox Theology and Culture and the co-founding Director of the Orthodox Christian Studies Center at Fordham University.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew discusses Halki, religious freedoms with Trump

Patriarch Bartholomew defends recognition of independent Ukrainian church

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew receives the Templeton Prize in New York

Trump urges Erdogan to stop buying Russian oil as they meet at White House

Trump pushes Turkey on Russian oil, hints at lifting sanctions

A radical rethink of Greek tourism?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 09:21:35 +0000

Year after year Greece has seen record numbers of tourists arrive in the country, and all data indicates that this upward trend - which is a global phenomenon - will continue in the coming years. While this has been pivotal for Greece’s economy, it also raises a number of concerns about the future of Greek tourism and whether the current model is sustainable. Stathis Kalyvas, the chairman of the board of directors at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center and Gladstone professor of government at the University of Oxford, joins Thanos Davelis as we ask whether Greece needs to radically change the way it thinks about tourism.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

What future for the ‘Greek summer?’

Calm waters risk turning turbulent again

Trump is hosting Turkey’s Erdogan at the White House as the US considers lifting ban on F-35 sales

Turkey’s Erdogan gets Trump’s red carpet — but don’t reward his treachery with US fighter jets

Trump prepares to roll out the red carpet for Turkey's Erdogan

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 10:35:57 +0000

President Trump is about to roll out the red carpet for Turkey’s President Erdogan this week in the White House, with issues like a “large-scale” purchase of Boeing aircraft, a “big deal” for F-16s, and Turkey’s desire to acquire F-35s set to dominate the agenda. Sinan Ciddi, a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and an expert on Turkish politics, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down what’s at stake and why the US is facing a moment of truth when it comes to Turkey.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

An autocratic Turkey does not deserve US military aid

Turkey’s Erdogan gets Trump’s red carpet — but don’t reward his treachery with US fighter jets

Turkey plans to buy hundreds of Boeing airliners and Lockheed Martin fighters, Bloomberg News reports

High-tech tax authority helps Greece return to Europe’s financial mainstream

How Greece’s neglected power grid fuels wildfire destruction

Chevron, the US, and Greece’s energy future

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 10:18:56 +0000

Chevron’s recent bid to explore in Greek waters and Secretary Doug Burgum’s recent visit to Greece have put energy in the spotlight, with the discussion shifting to how Greece and the US can work together to ensure a more secure energy future for the region. Constantinos Filis, the director of the Institute of Global Affairs and a professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down Chevron’s interest in Greece and look at how energy is set to take center stage in the US-Greece relationship.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Let’s not waste any more precious time

Greece emerging as critical energy hub in Eastern Mediterranean

Chevron’s here and must stay

PM Mitsotakis announces EEZ delimitation talks with Libya

Tensions shadow Mitsotakis-Erdogan talks

Is Europe's defense sector up to the challenge?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 10:47:59 +0000

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and President Trump’s calls for Europe to increase its defense spending have served as a wake up call for European governments who are committing to boost both military spending and investments in their defense sector. Max Bergmann, the director of the Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program and the Stuart Center in Euro-Atlantic and Northern European Studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at where Europe is today on defense, and how this could impact the Transatlantic alliance.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Defense Budgets in an Uncertain Security Environment

Loss for Trump as Denmark chooses Franco-Italian air defense system over US Patriots

Brussels approves Germany’s mega spending plan

Trump to host Erdogan at White House on September 25

PM heads to New York, plans meetings all week

Is Europe's "moment" slipping away?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 11:35:25 +0000

At the beginning of the year there was optimism in Europe that, despite a long to-do list, the Trump shock might lead to a “European moment”. Today, sluggish economic growth and political uncertainty seem to have stalled this momentum, with many wondering where Europe’s sense of urgency is. Simon Nixon, an independent journalist and the publisher of the Wealth of Nations newsletter, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at the challenges facing Europe and whether it can revive the sense of optimism in this “European moment”.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Europe's missing moment and the back-to-school blues

Europe’s great stockmarket inversion

Kimberly Guilfoyle confirmed as US ambassador to Greece

Turkey and Egypt launch joint drills

Aegean tensions, the UNGA, and the fragile state of Greek-Turkish relations

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 11:43:04 +0000

Over the past days we’ve seen tensions rise in the Aegean, with the planned deployment of Turkey’s research vessel Piri Reis - which remains docked - raising eyebrows in Athens ahead of an expected meeting between Prime Minister Mitsotakis and President Erdogan on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to take a closer look at these developments and at the state of Greek-Turkish relations today.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Measured strain ahead of New York

Ankara halts ship, Athens on alert

Benghazi won’t ratify Turkey deal

Greek-owned fleet ready to transport more American LNG around the world

Patriarch Bartholomew honored at Capitol Hill

The US visa that undermines Cyprus

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 10:30:10 +0000

The world’s attention will be on New York later this month, as world leaders prepare for the UN General Assembly. The Cyprus problem - one of the longest standing issues before the UN - will also be on the agenda, with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres scheduled to meet with President Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar. In a slightly different approach to the issue, Michael Rubin, who joins Thanos Davelis, explains that the US has enabled Turkey’s occupation in Cyprus by granting Tatar - the leader of an illegitimate state - a visa to attend the UNGA, and breaks down how it can correct course.

Michael Rubin is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and director of policy analysis at the Middle East Forum.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Rubio Should Correct Course on Turkish Occupation of Cyprus

Should the Foreign Missions Travel Controls Program Extend to Turkey?

US targets China’s grip on global ports in sweeping maritime mission

Greece stages military exercise in Aegean after Turkish survey warning

Ankara halts ship, Athens on alert

Turkey wary after Israel's strike on Hamas in Qatar

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 09:53:37 +0000

Israel’s recent airstrike targeting Hamas officials in Qatar seems to send a clear message that it is willing to go anywhere to eliminate Hamas. This has cast a cloud of growing concern in Turkey that it could be a target, especially considering President Erdogan’s open embrace of Hamas and his escalating rhetoric against Israel. Henri Barkey, an adjunct senior fellow for Middle East studies at the Council on Foreign Relations and the Cohen chair in international relations at Lehigh University, joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into this story.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey wary of Israeli threat following airstrike on Hamas in Qatar

Israel Risks a Gaza Ceasefire in Strike on Qatar—and Hamas

Ecumenical Patriarch discusses Halki, religious freedoms with Trump

Rutte signals support for SAFE bid by Turkey

School closures a warning about Greece's demographic crisis

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 09:02:23 +0000

Earlier this month, as the new school-year kicked off around the world, Greece announced it was closing more than 750 schools as a sharp decline in births over the years has left them without enough students. The story has made the rounds on social media, even getting picked up and shared by figures like Elon Musk. Eleni Varvitstioti, the Financial Times correspondent for Greece and Cyprus and author of this report, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at this story and the broader demographic challenge facing Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece suspends 5% of schools as birth rate drops

Greek companies tour Europe to lure back skilled nationals

Tens of thousands protest against legal crackdown on Turkey's main opposition party

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew arrives in Washington

A new level of aggression from Russia?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 09:57:05 +0000

This week a swarm of Russian heavy drones flew into Poland, a NATO member, and several of them were intercepted and shot down. The incident has raised a number of questions, as Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk called it “a large-scale provocation”. Thomas Graham, a Russia expert and a distinguished fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at what this incident means for Europe, for NATO, and for ongoing talks on Ukraine.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Russia Tests NATO With Poland Drone Breach

Russia’s Strategy Against the West: Escalate Slowly and See if It Responds

Putin’s Message to Ukraine, Europe and Trump: I Won’t Back Down

‘Intensified interest’ in passing Russia sanctions bill, says Thune

Cooperation signal on US LNG

Greece weighs additional F-35 jets

Greece’s role as a key US partner on energy

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 10:13:38 +0000

US Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum - and chair of the influential White House National Energy Dominance Council - will be the first cabinet-level official to travel to Greece this presidential term, highlighting Greece’s role as a key US partner on energy. At the same time, it looks like new developments on Capitol Hill could soon pave the way for US ambassador–nominee to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle to finally take up her post in Athens. Lena Argiri, the DC correspondent for ERT - the Greek Public Broadcasting Company - and Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to break all of this down.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece deemed critical to US energy plan

Senate GOP advances Guilfoyle’s nomination for Athens

Athens wary of domino effect of instability

Chevron entry elevates Greece geopolitically

Is Erdogan moving Turkey closer to a Russia-style autocracy?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 11:05:48 +0000

The latest chapter in a nearly year-long crackdown on the main opposition is unfolding in Turkey, where it seems Turkish President Erdogan is using the courts to effectively neuter the opposition. As Erdogan moves Turkey closer to a Russia-style autocracy, what does this mean for the opposition and ultimately for the West? Thanos Davelis breaks these questions down today with Wolfango Piccoli, the co-founder of risk analysis company Teneo.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey’s opposition head accuses Erdoğan of legal ‘coup’

Turkey's 'tough guy' president says he's tackling corruption. Rivals say he's silencing opposition

Greece deemed critical to US energy plan

Senate GOP advances Guilfoyle’s nomination for Athens

Greece's boldest tax reform in more than 50 years?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 9 Sep 2025 10:17:56 +0000

This weekend in Thessaloniki Prime Minister Mitsotakis laid out his vision for the coming year, announcing 1.6 billion euros in tax cuts - a package he called the boldest tax reform enforced in Greece in more than 50 years - and various measures to tackle the cost of living challenge facing many Greeks and the demographic crisis. John Psaropoulos joins Thanos Davelis as we break down these announcements and what they mean heading into the upcoming national elections in 2027.

John Psaropoulos is an independent journalist and Al Jazeera's correspondent in southeast Europe. He also publishes Hellenica, a weekly deep dive into Greek current affairs and history that you can find on Substack.com.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Tax cuts nudge Greece towards prosperity, but will they save it?

Greek premier rules out snap election, says tax cuts will help families

Greece announces €1.6bn relief package to tackle population decline

Greece’s population decline and its need for growth

Benghazi won’t ratify Turkey deal

Turkey opposition uses tables, chairs to block police besieging headquarters

Turkey’s arms industry: Hype or reality?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 8 Sep 2025 09:05:59 +0000

In July Turkey hosted the 17th International Defense Industry Fair, and over 100 countries sent representatives to see what’s behind all the hype around Ankara’s defense industry. Despite the attention it’s gotten over the last years, a lot of Ankara’s new military technology remains in development and untested, posing the question: Can Turkey deliver on its defense ambitions? Ryan Gingeras, a professor in the Department of National Security Affairs at the Naval Postgraduate School and an expert on Turkish, Balkan, and Middle East history, joins Thanos Davelis as we try to answer this question.

The views expressed by Professor Gingeras in this interview do not reflect the views of the US government.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Can Turkey Deliver on Its Armament Ambitions?

Greece announces €1.6bn relief package to tackle population decline

Greece, OpenAI agree deal to boost innovation in schools, small businesses

A quiet US withdrawal from the Western Balkans?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 5 Sep 2025 09:45:09 +0000

With the US focused on Ukraine, the Middle East, and President Trump’s trade deals, it seems the Western Balkans are flying under the radar in Washington. In fact, there are growing concerns in the region about a quiet US withdrawal and what this could mean as countries like Russia, China and Turkey vie for influence. Professor James Ker-Lindsay, who has worked extensively on the EU, the Balkans and Southeast Europe, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at these developments.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Risky jockeying for position in the Balkans

Serb separatist Dodik defies Bosnian state in government reshuffle

Greece toughens penalties for rejected asylum seekers, speeds up returns

PM to unveil tax breaks as popularity dips

Erdogan's flirt with Xi Jinping and China

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 4 Sep 2025 09:38:27 +0000

The Economist just ran a story about the Shanghai Co-operation Organization summit that took place, calling it Xi Jinping’s anti-American party. This party also included world leaders like Turkish President Erdogan. Sinan Ciddi, a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and an expert on Turkish politics, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into Erdogan’s cozying up to China and what it means for the US.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Xi Jinping’s anti-American party

Turkey’s Erdogan holds hands with Iran’s Pezeshkian, sparks online buzz

Putin, Modi and Erdoğan among leaders in China for talks with Xi

Mitsotakis and Erdogan likely to meet this month

Athens sends message to Nicosia over power cable project

Mitsotakis prepares to outline his agenda for the year in Thessaloniki

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 3 Sep 2025 10:22:33 +0000

This weekend Prime Minister Mitsotakis is heading to Thessaloniki, where he’s going to deliver a sort of state of the union address, outlining his agenda and key priorities for the year ahead. Today Thanos Davelis brings on Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder of Macropolis.gr, as we break down what issues are top of the list, and what moves Mitsotakis is planning for the year ahead.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

PM finalises relief measures in ambitious but risky move to sway voters

Turkish court ousts main opposition's Istanbul head over congress irregularities

EU foreign policy chief: Turkey-Libya maritime deal violates rights of third countries

The man behind the verse: A new look at Cavafy

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 2 Sep 2025 08:56:16 +0000

Constantine Cavafy, the Greek poet whose work not only charted a new path for Greek poetry, but also inspired countless readers around the world - including figures like David Hockney, Leonard Cohen, and Jackie Kennedy Onassis - is back in the spotlight thanks to the publication of his first biography in roughly 50 years. Professors Gregory Jusdanis and Peter Jeffreys, the authors of the book, join Thanos Davelis as we take a deeper dive into the life and work of Constantine Cavafy.

For those who are interested, the book is available for purchase in the US and the UK, and is expected in early October in Greece as well.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Constantine Cavafy: A New Biography

Alexandrian Sphinx: The Hidden Life of Constantine Cavafy

‘Constantine Cavafy’ Review: A Poet’s Odyssey Within

The mysterious life of Constantine Cavafy

Ankara bristles at Athens’ energy moves

Greece suspends 5% of schools as birth rate drops

Is Turkey losing its client in Damascus? The de-escalation "deal" between Israel and Syria

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 15:21:23 +0000

Endy Zemenides, HALC’s Executive Director, is joined by Michael Rubin, Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, to break down reports that Israel is closing in on a security deal with Syria as a U.S. envoy meets with Prime Minister Netanyahu, and to analyze what this means for the region, from Turkey to broader U.S. strategy in the Middle East.

You can read the article we discuss on our podcast here:

Egypt's efforts to control St. Catherine's Monastery

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 14:00:27 +0000

HALC Executive Director and host Endy D. Zemenides is joined by Mariam Wahba, Research Analyst at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, to analyze the Egyptian government's efforts to control St. Catherine's monastery, the world’s oldest continuously inhabited Christian monastery.

You can read the articles we discuss in the podcast here:

Did the "No Jets for Turkey" campaign just get a boost from the Trump Administration?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 11:08:38 +0000

HALC Executive Director and host Endy D. Zemenides is joined by Tyler Stapleton, Director of Government Relations at FDD Action, to analyze the State Department's response to a Congressional letter calling on holding Turkey accountable and the F-35 program.

You can read the articles we discuss in the podcast here:

Trouble in Jerusalem for Christian Churches?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 11:18:00 +0000

HALC Executive Director and host Endy D. Zemenides is joined by Patrick Theros, former U.S. Ambassador to Qatar, member of the Council on Foreign Relations, and former Deputy Coordinator for Counterterrorism, to analyze the freezing of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate in Jerusalem's bank accounts.

You can read the articles we discuss in the podcast here:

Jerusalem freezes Greek Orthodox Patriarchate's bank accounts over tax dispute | The Times of Israel

Serbia rocked by ongoing anti-government clashes – DW – 08/19/2025

President of Syria Al-Shara met Patriarch of Antioch in Damascus | Orthodox Times (en)

Did President Trump and European leaders send a strong enough message to Putin?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 12:42:02 +0000

HALC Executive Director and host Endy D. Zemenides is joined by Ilan Berman, Senior Vice President of the American Foreign Policy Council, Board Member at Radio Free Europe, and author of Implosion: The End of Russia and What It Means for America to analyze the aftermath and impact of President Trump's meeting with with President Zelensky and European Leaders.

You can read the articles we discuss in the podcast here:

Can Trump End the War?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 15:38:39 +0000

Host Endy D. Zemenides, HALC Executive Director, welcomes Matthew Boyle, Washington, D.C. Bureau Chief for Breitbart News, for a deep dive into the implications of President Trump’s recent meeting with President Vladimir Putin, the latest developments in the war in Ukraine, and what all of this means for international relations.

Greece's summer of wildfires

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 09:35:23 +0000

Greece - and much of southern Europe - has faced a series of wildfires over the past weeks, prompting evacuations and even resulting in deaths. As Greece grapples with another summer of wildfires, questions abound over how to combat this phenomenon and build resilience, and the role of the media, the government, and civil society. Niko Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author, joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into these questions.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Wildfires: What we don’t know is what burns us

Overhead power lines under scrutiny after wildfires

Riyadh requests Greek mission renewal

Turkey’s deepening ties with Italy, Spain

Russia sanctions and the illusion of power Putin creates

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 09:34:45 +0000

Earlier this week we took a look at the stakes ahead of President Trump’s meeting with Russian President Putin in Alaska. Today, Professor Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, the president of the Yale Chief Executive Leadership Institute who has advised the White House, the State and Treasury Departments, and the Council of Economic Advisers on Russian economic sanctions and business retreats, joins Thanos Davelis as we explore how sanctions have crippled Russia’s economy, leaving Putin with very few cards.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Trump Has the Upper Hand Going into His Meeting with Putin

In a Trump-Putin Summit, Ukraine Fears Losing Say Over Its Future

Firefighters contain most wildfires across Greece, but risk remains

Government makes relief measures top priority

After inking military pact, Turkey to provide Syria with weapons, training

Turkey to help Syria with weapon systems, equipment under signed MoU, source says

Is Israel risking overplaying its hand? Gaza, the Middle East & Europe’s response

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 10:50:16 +0000

Is Israel risking overplaying its hand in Gaza and the Middle East, and, as European countries like France and Britain move to recognize Palestine, what are the broader ramifications for the region? Steven Cook, the Eni Enrico Mattei senior fellow for Middle East and Africa studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis as we look to answer these questions, and more.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Israel Risks Overplaying Its Hand in Gaza and the Middle East

Why Recognizing Palestine Is Meaningless or Even Harmful

Senegalese diplomat set to lead UN mission in Cyprus

Souda, Larissa base upgrades on agenda

Trump's peace plan for Armenia and Azerbaijan

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 09:08:00 +0000

Are Armenia and Azerbaijan on a path to peace, or is the latest deal signed at the White House a rushed agreement that lets Baku off the hook for its aggression - from the ethnic cleansing of Nagorno Karabakh to its unlawful detention of Armenian POWs? Thanos Davelis digs into this question with Aram Hamparian, the executive director of the Armenian National Committee of America, as we look at what this deal means for peace and stability in the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan Sign Peace Pledge at White House

If Azerbaijan Breaks its Agreements, Are Armenians Prepared to Resist?

Donald Trump brokers a peace plan in the Caucasus

Wildfires sweep Greece, trigger mass evacuations

Brussels wants to ditch Russian gas. Turkey could keep it flowing undetected.

Trump prepares for high stakes summit with Putin

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 10:12:21 +0000

All eyes will be on Alaska this Friday as President Trump meets with President Putin to discuss Ukraine, a high stakes summit with risks for Europe, Ukraine, and President Trump. Will Ukraine’s fear of a deal struck between Trump and Putin - and excluding Kyiv - be realized? What about the political risks for President Trump both at home and with US allies? David Sanger, the White House and National Security Correspondent for the New York Times, joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into all of these questions.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

In a Trump-Putin Summit, Ukraine Fears Losing Say Over Its Future

Athens walks Middle East tightrope

Seoul offers Athens major defense proposal

When is Kimberly Guilfoyle arriving in Greece?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 8 Aug 2025 06:54:48 +0000

Almost a month since Kimberly Guilfoyle received the nod from the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, we are still waiting for her to take up the job of US ambassador in Athens. Endy Zemenides, HALC’s Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis as we try to answer the question everyone’s thinking in Greece: “When is Kimberly arriving?”

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Another hurdle delays Guilfoyle’s arrival

US Senate gridlock further delays Guilfoyle’s arrival to Greece

Congress is in August recess, but tensions lie ahead on spending and Trump nominations

Greece, US discuss possible new military bases

Ankara blocks research on cable route

Greece may extend North Africa asylum ban if migrant flow resurges

Ensuring a future for minorities in Syria

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 7 Aug 2025 10:53:43 +0000

Syria stands at a pivotal moment. As the violent persecution of Syria’s minorities intensifies, key voices are calling on the US and the international community to help steer the country away from authoritarianism and toward a future that ensures equal citizenship for all Syrians. Two of those voices - Nadine Maenza and Aykan Erdemir - join Thanos Davelis as we break down why these steps are needed, before it’s too late.

Nadine Maenza is the chair of the Institute for Global Engagement, co-chair of the International Religious Freedom Roundtable, and former chair of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom. Aykan Erdemir is the Anti-Defamation League’s senior director of Global Research and Diplomatic Affairs.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The path to security for Syria’s minorities goes through equal citizenship

As Trump warms to Syria, US pushes UN to lift Sharaa sanctions

Egypt reaffirms support for Sinai Monastery amid speculation over its future

Cyprus property disputes threaten UN peace talks

Cyprus’ worst wildfire in decades, politics, and the climate crisis

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 6 Aug 2025 10:37:58 +0000

Despite Cyprus being better prepared than ever ahead of the wildfire season, last month Cyprus was hit with its worst wildfire in decades. As Cypriots look for answers, countries in the region - including Greece - are also facing similar challenges as they struggle to build resilience and keep up with the impacts of climate change. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini's English Edition and Politico's Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into this story.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Confused politics fans the flames of Southern Europe’s wildfires

Turkish parliamentary committee begins work on PKK peace initiative

Anti-drone system propels Greek plans for home-grown defence industry

A hot summer for Greek politics

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 5 Aug 2025 11:49:38 +0000

With the summer holiday season kicking into full gear, Greek politics doesn’t seem ready for a break just yet. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into what’s keeping Greek politicians busy in the summer heat - whether it’s the continued fallout over an EU farm subsidy scandal, speculation that former prime minister Antonis Samaras could form his own party, or new relief measures set to be announced after the summer.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Gov’t faces battles on multiple fronts

Parliamentary chicanery raises doubt about PM’s grip on party as he looks ahead to relief package

Greece, US discuss possible new military bases

Greek, Egyptian FMs meet; Sinai in spotlight

Libya, Turkey, and the battle of maps in the East Med

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 4 Aug 2025 08:34:46 +0000

Over the past month we’ve seen a battle of maps in the Eastern Mediterranean, with the Tripoli-based government in Libya, backed by Turkey, raising the temperature with Greece. Thanos Davelis brings on Constantinos Filis, the director of the Institute of Global Affairs and a professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, as we dig into Greece’s Libya conundrum and break down whether it’s time for Athens - given Ankara’s role here - to rethink its Turkey strategy.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece’s tricky Libyan balancing act

Time for Athens to rethink its Turkey strategy

Warming waters transforming Greece’s seas

Greece condemns Turkey’s marine parks as ‘unacceptable, unilateral and illegal’

What does the EU-US trade deal mean for Greece?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 1 Aug 2025 10:47:12 +0000

Earlier this week we dug into the EU-US trade deal, a deal that many Europeans feel is a humiliation and a surrender. As the dust settles around the details of this agreement, Thanos Davelis brings on Yiannis Mouzakis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr - a political and economic analysis site that focuses on Greece, to take a closer look at what this deal could mean for Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece digests EU-US trade deal amid mixed reaction

First foreign universities to be approved

Turkey government 'manufactures' enemies, opposition tells AFP

Defense in focus: Greece's plans for SAFE funds, island forces, and more

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 11:59:03 +0000

The past week has seen a number of developments on defense making headlines in Greece, whether it’s news that Athens will tap into Europe’s SAFE program, or plans that foresee self-sufficient military units on Greece’s islands. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why these moves matter, and look at what else he is paying attention to, including Turkey’s deal for Eurofighter jets and its expected response to Greece’s new maritime park in the Aegean.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece to tap EU loans to aid defense industries

Greece, 17 EU states apply for SAFE defense financing tool

Armed Forces plan foresees self-sufficient army units on islands

Greece awaiting Turkey’s marine park response

Athens not surprised by Turkey’s Eurofighter acquisition

Libyan coast guards train in Greece under plan to stem migrant flows

Erdogan shouldn’t bank on Trump

Turkey, the Kurds, and the path to peace

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 11:08:45 +0000

Earlier this month about 30 Kurdish PKK fighters put their assault rifles in a cauldron and set them on fire, a symbolic move after Abdullah Ocalan, the PKK’s imprisoned leader, issued a call for the PKK to lay down its arms. Thanos Davelis is joined by Piotr Zalewski, The Economist's Turkey correspondent, as we look into whether Kurds and Turks, after more than four decades of conflict, are closer than ever to peace.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Kurds and Turks are closer than ever to peace

Peace in Turkey must not become a smokescreen for repression

Awaiting the details of the EU-US trade deal

MPs vote to probe subsidies scandal

A big beautiful surrender?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 09:30:28 +0000

Surrender, submission, humiliation. Those are the words floating around in Europe after the US and the EU reached a tariff deal this weekend that President Trump described as the “biggest deal” ever made. Thanos Davelis brings on Simon Nixon, an independent journalist, Kathimerini columnist, and the publisher of the Wealth of Nations newsletter, as we ask the question: big beautiful deal, humiliating surrender, or a little bit of both?

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Europe's Surrender

Paying to Play: Europe’s Costly Concessions in Trump’s New Trade War

Trump and EU Reach Tariff Deal, Avoiding Trade War

Europe averts its Trumpian trade nightmare

Yemen’s Houthi rebels threaten to escalate attacks on ships linked to companies dealing with Israel

Wildfire burns 1.3% of Cyprus’ land, satellite data shows

Real cost of Cyprus fire near €20 mln

Are EU-China ties at an ‘inflection point’?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 08:42:49 +0000

With President Trump’s tariffs putting a sharp focus on China, most will likely be closely watching negotiations between the two as they look to avoid a full-blown trade war. In the meantime, the EU also has its eye on China, as Beijing’s wide trade surplus with the bloc and its backing of Moscow are key concerns. Brad Setser, the Whitney Shepardson senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations with an expertise in global trade, joins Thanos Davelis today as we take a closer look at how Europe is shifting when it comes to China.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Ursula von der Leyen tells Xi Jinping EU-China ties are at ‘inflection point’

Wildfires rage in Greece and Turkey as extreme heat persists

New legislation will grant legal status to Mt Sinai monastery

Is Turkey's Eurofighter deal a win for Erdogan?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 10:05:48 +0000

Seeing little progress in its effort to get back into the F-35 program, Turkey is now turning to the Eurofighter, with reports this week indicating a deal with both the UK and Germany for 40 jets. Tyler Stapleton and Sinan Ciddi, two experts tracking this issue closely, join Thanos Davelis today to look at what this deal means for Turkey and President Erdogan, and whether this could pose a risk for Europe in the long run.

Sinan Ciddi is a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and an expert on Turkish politics.

Tyler Stapleton serves as director of congressional relations at FDD Action. He previously spent eight years working in Congress where he served as a senior advisor on national security, foreign policy, defense, and intelligence for two members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

UK and Germany Agree to Sell Eurofighter Typhoon Fighter Jets to Turkey

UK, Turkey Sign Eurofighter Deal After Germany Gives Nod

Cyprus gets help from other countries to battle huge wildfire that has killed 2

Mitsotakis invites Tripoli to engage in EEZ delimitation talks

A catch 22 for Syria's Kurds?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 24 Jul 2025 10:46:17 +0000

Syria has been rocked lately by sectarian violence, something that’s not only putting the country’s minorities on edge, but is also posing a challenge to ongoing US efforts led by Ambassador Tom Barrack to push for the Syrian Kurds’ full integration into the Syrian government. Amberin Zaman, Al-Monitor's chief correspondent covering major stories on the Middle East and North Africa, joins Thanos Davelis today as we dig into this story.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Suwayda violence boosts Kurds’ leverage as US Syria envoy, SDF chief meet

US envoy urges Syria's Sharaa to revise policy or risk fragmentation

Greece unveils five-pillar plan to tackle growing water scarcity

Turkey nears Eurofighter jet purchase after UK, German agreements

Athens not surprised by Turkey’s Eurofighter acquisition

Russia and Turkey's expanding footprint in Libya

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 11:04:45 +0000

While Libya - and the Turkish presence there - has long been on Greece’s radar, the war-torn country is now attracting Brussels’ attention as well amid concerns about migration and Russia’s expanding influence there. Jalel Harchaoui, a Libya specialist based in Paris, joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into Europe’s concerns about migration and Russia’s expanding footprint in Libya, and look at Turkey’s charm offensive toward the government in the east.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

We must work with Libyans to stop Putin weaponizing migrants, top EU official says

Tripoli asserts claims against Athens

AJC and HALC urge Congress to block Turkey’s reentry into the F35 program and uphold CAATSA sanctions

Greek companies tour Europe to lure back skilled nationals

With heatwaves on the rise, can Greek homes adapt?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 11:14:04 +0000

Greece is in the middle of a new heatwave that will see temperatures pass 40 degrees celsius - or 104 Fahrenheit - this week. While the government issues warnings to stay out of the sun and remain cool indoors, this is not an option for many Greeks living in buildings that are not designed to cope with these high temperatures. Today we're bringing on Alexia Kalaitzi, an award-winning journalist and features reporter for Kathimerini, who joins Thanos Davelis as we look into the question: How hot is too hot when you’re inside your own home?

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

How hot is too hot when you’re inside your home?

Greece to create two national marine parks in Ionian and Aegean Seas, PM says

Sea parks an assertion of sovereignty

Turkey Nears Preliminary Deal for Eurofighter Combat Jet Order, Sources Say

Greece's message of support to Lebanon and the region's Christians

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 09:33:21 +0000

At the beginning of the year Lebanon found itself with a new president, a weakened Hezbollah, and the collapse of Assad in Syria, and many - including leaders in Athens - were asking if now was an opportunity to reimagine Lebanon's future. Today Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into Greece’s ties to Lebanon and its message of support as the country looks to rebuild.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece backs Lebanon’s efforts to restructure its armed forces

Greek PM calls for reunification of Cyprus on anniversary of 1974 invasion

Erdogan visits Turkish-occupied north Cyprus on 51st anniversary of 1974 invasion

Athens hits back at Tripoli sea claims

A "big beautiful" week for Hellenic issues on the Hill?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 07:49:15 +0000

Over the last decade we’ve gotten used to Congress driving policy on the East Med, yet since President Trump’s inauguration in January, all eyes have been on the executive. Endy Zemenides, HALC’s executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis today to see how Congress - on the heels of passing Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” - is stepping back into the spotlight, introducing key bills on Greece and Cyprus.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Bill proposes 5-year extension of Cyprus arms embargo waiver

Meng, Bilirakis, Titus, And Malliotakis Introduce Legislation To Support The US-Hellenic Relationship

Kimberly Guilfoyle receives nod as US ambassador to Greece

Tripoli asserts claims against Athens

US lawmakers launch bipartisan effort to block Turkey’s return to F-35 program

Is Trump's shift on Ukraine good news for Europe?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 10:19:26 +0000

Earlier this week it seems President Trump took a new stance on Ukraine, announcing a new plan to speed weapons to the war-torn country along with the threat of a new round of punishing sanctions. At the same time, he doubled down on tariffs this past weekend, threatening 30% tariffs on the EU. Ian Lesser, the vice president and Brussels chief of the German Marshall Fund of the United States, joins Thanos Davelis to look into what these shifts mean for Europe.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Trump’s Shift on Ukraine Is Good News for Europe, for Now

Trump intensifies trade war with threat of 30% tariffs on EU, Mexico

Europe's freedom faces greatest threat since WW2, Macron says

Turkish court sentences Erdoğan’s top rival to almost 2 years in prison

Tourism receipts fall despite visitor surge

Greece's housing crisis and the decline of home ownership

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 10:06:08 +0000

Recent statistics show that home ownership is declining in Greece, while the number of people living on rent is shooting up. At the same time, the supply of apartments for sale or rent in the center of Athens continues to drop, while prices are on the rise. This is all contributing to a deepening housing crisis for many Greeks. Nikos Roussanoglou, a journalist at Kathimerini covering the economy and the housing market, joins Thanos Davelis to break down these trends, and look at what they mean for Greeks.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Share of tenants is growing

House supply keeps declining

Tripoli evasive on maritime boundaries

Bill proposes 5-year extension of Cyprus arms embargo waiver

Meng, Bilirakis, Titus, And Malliotakis Introduce Legislation To Support The US-Hellenic Relationship

Greece sounds the alarm over a spike in migrant flows from Libya

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 10:51:00 +0000

Italy and Greece are sounding the alarm in Brussels over a spike in migrant flows from Libya which has seen at least 9,000 people arrive in Crete since the start of the year, most of them in recent weeks. Athens has responded with new tough migration rules, and the Greek navy is also present in the area. Angeliki Dimitriadi, an independent researcher and expert on migration, joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into this latest migration challenge facing the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Italy and Greece sound the alarm over Libya. But allies aren’t rushing to help.

Athens rethinks southern sea strategy

EU trade ministers plan countermeasures to Trump’s ‘unacceptable’ 30% tariffs

Libya files UN complaint over Greek maritime zones

The 100 year legacy of Apogevmatini, the voice of the Greeks of Istanbul

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 08:19:25 +0000

There are few media outlets - let alone businesses or organizations - around the world that can boast 100 years of existence. As of this weekend, Apogevmatini, the Greek newspaper founded in 1925 in Istanbul, can do just that. Niko Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author, joins Thanos Davelis to look into the legacy of Apogevmatini, the paper of the Greeks of Istanbul, tracing its history over the last century and exploring the challenges it faces today - from a shrinking Greek community to media freedom in Turkey.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Apogevmatini marks centenary as voice of Istanbul’s Greek community

«Απογευματινή»: η ελληνόφωνη εφημερίδα της Κωνσταντινούπολης που κοντεύει να κλείσει 100 χρόνια ζωής

Niko Efstathiou’s tweet on Apogevmatini’s 100 year anniversary

Athens rethinks southern sea strategy

Turkish president hails the start of disarmament by militant Kurdish separatists

Erdogan targets political opponents in ever expanding crackdown

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 10:15:29 +0000

It seems Erdogan's main political opponents - primarily from the main opposition - are up against an unprecedented crackdown over the past months that has seen more than 500 people detained. Erdogan has said this government probe targets what he has called a network that is like "an octopus,” both within Turkey and abroad. Ayla Jean Yackley, an Istanbul-based journalist covering Turkey with stories in The Financial Times, Politico, and other major outlets, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at this story.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey detains hundreds of Erdogan opponents in pursuit of 'octopus' of corruption

Turkey's Erdoğan makes high-stakes Kurdish gamble

Greece PM defends halt to asylum processing for North African migrants

Demographic crisis spells end for 146-year-old village school

Athens and Brussels focus on Libya as migration takes center stage

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 10:04:48 +0000

We’re turning our attention to Libya today, as a surge in the number of migrants traveling from the divided country to Greece’s shores is sounding alarms in Athens and in Brussels. As Greece and the European Union look to tackle this new challenge, Athens is also looking to engage diplomatically with the two rival factions in Libya’s east and west. Alexandra Voudouri, Kathimerini’s Brussels correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest analysis.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Brussels gets blamed for Libya trip fiasco

Benghazi expels EU migration envoys

Athens adopts measured response to recent diplomatic incident with Libya

Athens steps up efforts to build links with Libya as EU steps in to assist

PM unveils tough new migration measures

Trump’s pick for US ambassador completes senate hearing smoothly

Will Trump's new tariff deadline deliver trade deals?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 9 Jul 2025 11:04:31 +0000

Originally by today - July 9th - we were supposed to have 90 trade deals in 90 days, and new tariffs were supposed to go into effect. This week, the Trump administration extended the deadline to August 1st. President Trump is now insisting that there will not be another extension to this deadline. Maria Demertzis, the chief economist for Europe at the Conference Board in Brussels, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at what message this latest extension of the tariff deadline sends to America’s trading partners, particularly Europe.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

No TACO Tuesday: Trump insists Aug. 1 tariff deadline won’t be extended

Trump delays tariffs as the rest of the world plays hardball

What Trump Trade Policy Has Achieved Since ‘Liberation Day’

Greek PM to brief Parliament on migration surge from Libya

Benghazi expels EU migration envoys

Houthi rebels release video of attack on Greek ship Magic Seas

Death toll from Red Sea attack on Greek-owned vessel rises to three

Merkel's reflections on the Greek debt crisis

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 8 Jul 2025 10:04:51 +0000

Speaking at an event organized by Kathimerini last week in Athens, former German Chancellor Angela Merkel reflected on her tenure, touching on a number of issues, from her relationship with leaders like former Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras to the Greek financial crisis. Iliana Magra, a journalist with Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down the main takeaways from this visit.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Τι είπε και τι είδε η Μέρκελ στην Αθήνα

Merkel says Trump is an attention seeker and Greek debt crisis brought her to tears

Merkel: Tsipras’ call about 2015 referendum was ‘most surprising’ in her career

Withdrawing 2011 referendum idea was ‘best possible decision,’ says Merkel

Cyprus goes high-tech in search for people missing from past conflict

US transforms Souda base into fortress

Even if Turkey gives up the S-400s, F-35s should be off the table

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 7 Jul 2025 09:29:25 +0000

Recent reports indicate that the White House is looking to find a way to move past Turkey’s purchase of Russian S-400 missiles, and pave the way for Ankara to return to the F-35 program. Sinan Ciddi and Bradley Bowman, the authors of the recent op-ed “S-400s or not, don’t give Turkey the F-35”, join Thanos Davelis to make the case that even if Turkey gives up the S-400s, F-35s should be off the table for both practical and moral reasons.

Bradley Bowman is senior director of the Center on Military and Political Power at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), and Sinan Ciddi is a senior fellow at FDD and director of its Turkey Program.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

S-400s or not, don’t give Turkey the F-35

US expands military footprint in Greece as priorities evolve

Foreign minister in Benghazi Sunday for high-level talks

The Black Sea and European security

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 3 Jul 2025 10:09:28 +0000

While everyone’s attention has been on the Middle East over the past weeks, I want to turn us to the Black Sea. The Black Sea is not just critical to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s war on Ukraine, but it is a key part of the wider standoff between Moscow and the West, raising questions about European security and drawing in other powers as well like Turkey and the US. Dimitar Bechev, a senior fellow with Carnegie Europe, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at why the Black Sea is increasingly on the West and Europe’s radar.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The Black Sea Has Become the Fulcrum of Europe’s Security

US sanctions on Turkey could be lifted, envoy says

S-400s or not, don’t give Turkey the F-35

Rival leaders in Cyprus will meet informally with UN chief this month

Farm scandal rocks Greek politics

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 2 Jul 2025 10:01:38 +0000

A scandal involving EU funds and farm subsidies has rocked the Greek government and is the lead story coming out of Greece. Over the weekend we saw the resignation of a few ministers, including migration minister and former agriculture minister Makis Voridis, and we’ve seen Prime Minister Mitsotakis acknowledge the government’s failure while announcing steps to address the issue. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini's English Edition and Politico's Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this story.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece names new ministers after high-level resignations over farm scandal

Greek farm scandal triggers top-level government resignations

Mitsotakis: Task force to trace illegal farmer subsidies

‘We failed’: Mitsotakis addresses OPEKEPE scandal and party’s role

Turkey detains 120 opposition officials including former mayor

Turkey's opposition, Erdogan's crackdown, and the country's economic woes

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 1 Jul 2025 09:38:53 +0000

We’re turning to Turkey today, where Turkish markets rallied on Monday after a Turkish court adjourned a case that could force the removal of the main opposition party's leader. Despite this decision, there is still rising political uncertainty in the country as Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu remains imprisoned, and questions remain about the direction Turkey’s economy is heading. Wolfango Piccoli, the co-founder of risk analysis company Teneo, joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into these developments.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkish Markets Rally After Key Opposition Case Adjourned

Turkey’s economic woes catch up with Erdoğan

Cyprus invites Erdogan to summit despite long rift over 1974 invasion

Inviting the invader?

Trump Lifts Sanctions on Syria, Tightening His Embrace of Its New Leader

The US presence in the Greece, Turkey and the East Med

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 10:03:05 +0000

Since President Trump stepped back into the Oval Office, Greece has been on the lookout for the arrival of a new US ambassador. While nominee Kimberly Guilfoyle has yet to go through her Senate hearing, the US ambassador in Ankara, Tom Barrack, seems to be charting a new course for US-Turkey ties. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down why the US can not afford to be under-represented in Southeast Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

No US ambassador in Athens

US envoy signals restart in US–Turkey relations as F-35 thaw begins

Subsidy scandal shakes ruling party

‘We failed’: Mitsotakis addresses OPEKEPE scandal and party’s role

Greece names new ministers after high-level resignations over farm scandal

Severe heat wave hits southern Europe and raises wildfire risks

Firefighters in Turkey battle to contain wildfires for second day

Libya on Greece's radar

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 11:11:17 +0000

Today we’re turning to Greece’s south, and looking at developments in Libya which are increasingly moving onto Athens’ radar. Greece is closely monitoring recent energy agreements between Libya’s Tripoli-based government and Turkey, and is moving ships south of Crete amid a new surge in migrants crossing the Mediterranean from Libya and heading to Greece. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at Libya, and break down what recent developments there could mean for Athens.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey to start exploring for gas off Libya

Mitsotakis: EU must use ‘carrot and stick’ in approach to migration

Erdogan says Trump would join Ukraine peace talks in Turkey if Putin attends

EU leaders seek a big boost in Ukraine military support but make little progress on Russia sanctions

Are Armenia and Turkey inching closer to normalization?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 10:05:55 +0000

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan visited Turkey late last week for talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the first formal meeting of its kind and a move Yerevan described as a "historic" step. Despite previous efforts - and a slew of concessions by Pashinyan to both Azerbaijan and Turkey over the past years - there has been little tangible progress in normalizing relations. Dr. Laurence Broers, an associate fellow in the Russia and Eurasia Program at Chatham House and an expert on the South Caucasus region, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at this normalization effort.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Armenia's Pashinyan, Turkey's Erdogan to hold 'historic' talks amid Iran-Israel war

Armenian PM Pashinyan meets Erdogan in Turkey on 'historic' visit

Armenian prime minister discusses reconciliation with Erdogan in landmark Turkey visit

PM touts defense spending at NATO summit

Libya, Turkey sign MoU on offshore areas, Athens reiterates rejection

Deadly attack raises new fears for Syria’s Christians and minorities

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 09:55:01 +0000

A few days ago the Mar Elias Greek Orthodox Church in Damascus, Syria, was bombed in a terrorist attack that left dozens of people dead. The attack has left Syria’s Christians struggling to understand why their community was targeted, and wondering if they can rely on the government of President Ahmed al-Sharaa for safety. Nadine Maenza joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at what this deadly attack means for Syria’s Christians and minorities.

Nadine Maenza is the President of the IRF Secretariat, an international organization focused on building infrastructure to support the religious freedom movement globally. She also serves as a Global Fellow at the Wilson Center, and previously served as chair of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF).

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Syria's Christians ask 'Why us?' after suicide bombing at Damascus church

Attack on Christians threatens Syria's postwar cohesion

Syrian Christian leader chides president over deadly church bombing

Greece to deploy frigates off Libya to curb increased migrant flows, PM says

Wildfires wreak widespread destruction on Chios

Authorities begin damage assessment in Chios, woman arrested for arson

The NATO summit and the future of the alliance

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 09:18:36 +0000

We’re turning our attention to the Hague today, where NATO leaders are gathering this week for a two day summit. While European allies - keen to avoid clashing with President Trump - already agreed to Washington’s demands that they increase defense spending, key questions loom over Ukraine, the Middle East, and the future of the transatlantic alliance. Ian Lesser, the vice president and Brussels chief of the German Marshall Fund of the United States, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into what’s at stake at this summit.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Weathering the Storm: The Hague Summit and the Future of NATO

NATO members agree to increase defense spending to 5%

How Europe would fill an America-shaped hole in NATO

Iranian spies target bases on Crete and Cyprus

Live Updates: Israel and Iran Agree to Cease-Fire Announced by Trump

Israel accuses Iran of violating ceasefire, vows to 'respond forcefully'

Turkey stokes Aegean tensions with new map

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 08:10:32 +0000

Turkey’s latest move to submit a new so-called maritime spatial plan to UNESCO laying claim to half of the Aegean Sea is once again putting the spotlight on its revisionist Blue Homeland doctrine, and raising questions about its commitment to maintaining calm in the region. Constantinos Filis, the director of the Institute of Global Affairs and a professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at this development, breaking down what it means for Greece and the sense of calm that has prevailed over the past few years in the Aegean.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey draws line of marine influence right down the Aegean Sea

Athens navigates the day after the US inserted itself into the wars in Israel

Middle East conflict’s intensity, duration to shape impact on Greek economy

Shipping faces elevated risk, Strait of Hormuz closure looms

FM to visit Libya amid maritime tensions

Is Greece's economy ready for climate change?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 10:41:09 +0000

Over the past decades we’ve heard a lot about the potential impacts of climate change, from rising temperatures to wildfires and droughts. Greece is on the frontline of many of these shifts. Today we’re taking a closer look at how climate change will impact Greece’s economy. Nikos Vettas, the General Director of the Foundation for Economic and Industrial Research and a Professor of Economics at the Athens University of Economics and Business, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down the challenges and opportunities for Greece’s economy.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Climate change to cost up to 327,000 jobs

Competitiveness deficit shows no sign of easing

Greek PM opens door to a shift on nuclear power

Armenia's Pashinyan, Turkey's Erdogan to hold 'historic' talks amid Iran-Israel war

Mitsotakis' roadmap to the 2027 elections, a Tsipras comeback, and the far-right

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 09:04:49 +0000

Earlier this week Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis essentially launched his pre-election campaign, unveiling a roadmap to the 2027 elections. As Mitsotakis prepares for 2027, we’re also seeing former prime minister Alexis Tsipras take steps that are fueling speculation about a political comeback, while the far-right is back in the headlines. Lamprini Rori, an Assistant Professor in Political Analysis at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at these developments.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Mitsotakis outlines four key priorities ahead of 2027 elections

Tsipras pitch for progressive opposition presents New Democracy with new adversary

Greek court strips three far-right MPs of seats over electoral fraud

Parliament votes to investigate former transport minister

Patriot missile systems being moved to Souda base

Conflict, trade, and the G7 summit

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 08:47:54 +0000

The G7 leaders just met in Canada where the focus quickly turned to geopolitics, primarily the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, which saw President Trump leave the summit early and return to Washington as conflict escalated between Israel and Iran. At the same time, trade remains a key concern among the G7 nations, as tariffs loom on the horizon. Matthew Goodman, the director of the Greenberg Center for Geoeconomic Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into the latest G7 summit and the broader questions still at hand about the ongoing and evolving conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, trade, and tariffs.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Trump Renews Embrace of Putin Amid Rift With Allies

Trade, a sudden exit, Middle East conflict - five takeaways from G7

G7 leaders urge 'de-escalation' but stop short of calling for Israel-Iran ceasefire

‘Donald is right’ and China is the problem, EU chief says

Trump and Trade Loom Over Canada’s G7 Summit

Greece aims to lead in tech and innovation, Mitsotakis tells Les Échos

EU plans to squeeze out Russian gas with tough new rules

The Greeks of Turkey: More than just 'monuments and memories'

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 10:54:52 +0000

Kathimerini just ran a piece highlighting the efforts of teachers and community schools in keeping Greek education alive in Turkey. These schools are central to the Greek community in Istanbul, a community that once had a significant presence but has dwindled to roughly 2,000 individuals over the last century as a result of government policies, persecution, and a pogrom in the 1950s. Dr. Ilay Romain Ors, a social anthropologist whose work has largely focused on the Greek Orthodox community of Istanbul, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at this historic community and the challenges it faces today.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Keeping the Greek education flame alive in Turkey

Remembering forced migrations: The 1964 expulsion of Greeks from Istanbul

Former Byzantine churches are being converted to mosques – this threatens Istanbul’s cosmopolitan identity

Mitsotakis outlines four key priorities ahead of 2027 elections

Turkey challenges Greek maritime zones with UNESCO map submission

The man tasked with solving all of Turkey’s problems

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 08:52:39 +0000

Since arriving in Ankara, US ambassador Tom Barrack has been thrown into the spotlight. Aside from his active role in Syria, reports indicate he is laying the groundwork for an Erdogan visit to Washington. If we take a closer look, however, the argument could also be made that he is seemingly promoting a number of Turkish positions across the board - from selling Turkey F-35s to presenting Turkey as an indispensable actor for regional stability. Now Israel’s strike on Iran could throw many of these calculations up in the air. The FDD’s Sinan Ciddi and Tyler Stapleton join Thanos Davelis to break all of this down.

Sinan Ciddi is a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and an expert on Turkish politics.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Israel and Iran Trade Attacks on 4th Day of Conflict

Plans afoot for an Erdogan trip to the White House

Iran denies asking Cyprus to convey messages to Israel

Cyprus on high alert as regional tensions escalate

Modi begins two-day visit to Cyprus, set to sign joint declaration on strategic cooperation

Greek sports in the spotlight: From the Final Four to the Greek national soccer team

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 10:25:27 +0000

Last year Greece’s two biggest teams achieved big triumphs at the European level, with Panathinaikos winning the Euroleague in basketball, and Olympiakos winning the Conference League in soccer. While this year didn’t deliver any major silverware, we stll saw important runs for both teams. At the same time, the Greek national team in soccer has many fans excited for what lies ahead as it sets out to qualify for next year’s World Cup. Prof. Alex Kitroeff, a professor of history who also studies and writes extensively about Greek sports, joins Thanos Davelis as we look back at another Greek sports season to remember, from both major Greek teams making it to the final four of the Euroleague to the Greek national soccer team raising expectations ahead of the World Cup.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Reds wrest Greek basketball throne from Greens

Olympiakos finishes third in Euroleague

Four Greek talents among world’s most experienced young soccer players

Greece’s ‘nouvelle vague’ sinks the Scots in Glasgow

Israeli Strikes Wipe Out Iran’s Top Military Chain of Command

Greece to hold emergency security meeting following Middle East escalation

Bipartisan bill aims to strengthen US-Cyprus security partnership

Greece's fragmented political landscape

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 10:06:54 +0000

We’re almost at the halfway point of Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ second term. Despite a few political storms over the past years, New Democracy, the prime minister’s party, is riding out a wave of dissatisfaction among voters, holding steady at about 30 percent. At the same time, a rudderless and divided opposition can’t seem to translate this into votes. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini's English Edition and Politico's Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a deeper dive into Greece’s current political landscape, from the ruling party to the fragmented opposition.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greeks feel they have no one to vote for

Tsipras slams government, calls for progressive unity

Athens agrees to send APCs to Lebanon

Greek court strips three far-right MPs of seats over electoral fraud

Can Europe support Ukraine without Washington?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 07:25:51 +0000

Despite pressure from the Trump administration for a peace deal or a ceasefire in Ukraine, Russia appears to be stepping up its attacks, launching almost 500 drones and missiles at Ukraine earlier this week. With President Trump keen on bringing this war to an end, or washing his hands of what he views as a European issue, Europe is debating how to build up their defense capabilities and support Ukraine. Professor Lawrence Freedman joins Thanos Davelis as we break down whether Europe is in a position to support Ukraine without Washington, and look into the broader lessons from the war in Ukraine.

Lawrence Freedman is an emeritus professor of War Studies at King’s College London, the author of Command: The Politics of Military Operations From Korea to Ukraine, and a co-author of the Substack Comment Is Freed.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

As Trump Wavers, Europe Is More Optimistic About Defending Ukraine

Russia Launches Biggest Drone Assault of the War, Ukraine Says

The Age of Forever Wars: Why Military Strategy No Longer Delivers Victory

Growing Conflict and Uncertain Alliances: On the Future of European Security

Mitsotakis visits Odessa on Wednesday

American AI powerhouse eyes Cyprus

Are the Cyclades at risk of "Disneyfication"?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 08:13:01 +0000

Kathimerini featured a story recently on the Cyclades, specifically sounding the alarm over what some are calling the “Disneyfication” of the islands amid unchecked tourism and construction. This is an issue that has been at the forefront of discussions over the past years when talking about striking a balance between sustainability and tourism in Greece, and the Sustainable Cyclades project has been a key part of this debate. Yannis Palaiologos, a journalist at large with Kathimerini and the co-editor of the Sustainable Cyclades project, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into this issue just as the tourism season kicks off in Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

‘Disneyfication’ looms as nature on islands dwindles

Οι «Βιώσιμες Κυκλάδες» & το συντηρητικό ένστικτο

Macron links ocean protection to national sovereignty, voices support for Greece, Cyprus

Looking for new approach towards Libya

Greece on the cusp of creating two major marine parks

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 9 Jun 2025 06:40:10 +0000

At the 9th Our Ocean Conference in Athens last year, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced that Greece would create two marine parks that would raise the extent of Greece’s marine protected areas to 30 percent. Last year’s announcement also led to objections from Turkey, adding a geopolitical angle to this discussion. Now, reports indicate Greece is about to pass legislation to make this a reality. John Psaropoulos joins Thanos Davelis as we break down what this could mean for Greece’s delicate marine areas, while looking at how Turkey’s objections are complicating this story.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece poised to make marine parks a reality

Plans afoot for an Erdogan trip to the White House

“The right time is coming and it will come soon,” vows Greek Foreign Minister regarding Crete-Cyprus power link

The looming water crisis facing Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 6 Jun 2025 11:13:40 +0000

As Europe faces increasing pressure over access to fresh water, the problem has become particularly acute in Greece. Reports indicate that Athens and the Attica region will face a water crisis in the coming years under current climate conditions, while the spotlight is increasingly on how to preserve and manage water resources across the country. In addition, this challenge has taken on a European dimension, as the continent grapples with similar questions and the EU unveils a new water resilience strategy. Giorgos Lialios, a journalist at Kathimerini covering issues related to the environment, joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into the looming water crisis facing Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

EU warns Greece over lack of water strategy

Satellite images reveal significant decline in Lake Mornos water levels

The EU's water crisis by the numbers

5 mayors are suspended from duty as authorities expand the crackdown on Turkey’s opposition

EU conjures up surprise law to govern use of ocean resources

Greece and Egypt turn to Libya amid new concerns over the Turkey-Libya maritime deal

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 5 Jun 2025 10:32:24 +0000

Reports that Eastern Libya's parliament is considering endorsing the 2019 maritime agreement between Turkey and the Tripoli-based government in Libya that attempted to split the eastern Mediterranean between the two - and at the expense of neighboring countries - is sounding the alarm in Greece and Egypt. Sean Mathews, a journalist for the Middle East Eye covering the Middle East, North Africa and the Balkans, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at why the Turkey-Libya deal is back in the headlines, and examine what a decision to endorse it in eastern Libya would mean for Greece, Egypt, and the East Med.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Exclusive: Greece to lobby Egypt against Haftar endorsing Turkey-Libya maritime deal

EU warns Greece over lack of water strategy

Athens, Cairo back at the table over ancient monastery status

Turkey's big play in Syria

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 4 Jun 2025 10:07:28 +0000

Last week a $7 billion energy deal involving the United States, Turkey and Qatar, was signed in Damascus, a move designed to revive Syria's crippled power sector. The move raises questions about Qatar and Turkey’s role in post-Assad Syria and about the Trump administration’s Syria policy. The move also comes as Turkey’s President Erdogan is continuing his crackdown on opposition voices. Henri Barkey, a Professor of International Relations at Lehigh University and an Adjunct Senior Fellow for Middle East Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into Washington’s green-lighting of Turkey and Qatar’s embrace of Syria, and look at how this could impact Erdogan at home.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey's big Syria play: Rebuild, but only if Gulf can pay for it

Turkey and Qatar Are Buying Into Syria. The US Should Be Wary of Their Motives

The End of Erdogan

Fresh hope for Europe’s largest wooden building, a Greek Orthodox orphanage

Libyan House reportedly looks to ratify Turkey maritime deal

Greece at the heart of exciting developments on the energy front

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 3 Jun 2025 09:05:20 +0000

From the “Vertical Gas Corridor” to projects in the Eastern Mediterranean, Greece is stepping up its efforts on the energy front. This is placing it at the heart of exciting new developments that will link the East Med with Central Europe and even Ukraine, while drawing the attention of US energy giants like Exxon Mobil and Chevron. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down some of the latest developments on the energy front, and look at what they mean for Greece and its partners in the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece on the regional energy map

Greece an ‘ideal connector’ in the IMEC corridor

Gas to flow from Greece to Slovakia, Ukraine

Greek delegation heads to Egypt amid controversy

Ankara eyeing Aegean in new exercise

What's at stake for St. Catherine's monastery in Sinai, and why does it matter for international religious freedom?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 2 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A recent court ruling in Egypt has sounded alarm bells in Athens and around the world as it seems to put the status of St. Catherine’s monastery in Sinai, a UNESCO world heritage site, at risk. This has prompted reactions at the highest levels, with Prime Minister Mitsotakis speaking with his Egyptian counterpart and emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the monastery’s status as a Greek Orthodox place of pilgrimage. Dr. Elizabeth Prodromou joins Thanos Davelis as we break down what’s at stake for St. Catherine’s monastery and why it matters as we look at the broader state of international religious freedom in the region.

Dr. Prodromou is a former Vice Chair and Commissioner on the US Commission on International Religious Freedom, visiting professor in the International Studies Program at Boston College, and was a member of the US Secretary of State’s Religion & Foreign Policy Working Group.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Sisi reaffirms Egypt’s commitment to status of Sinai monastery in call with Mitsotakis

Historic Sinai settlement never signed

A bolt out of the blue on Mt Sinai

Turkish authorities order detention of dozens of opposition officials in widening crackdown

Turkey arrests dozens including opposition party members

Gas to flow from Greece to Slovakia, Ukraine

Is a trade deal between the EU and the US in the cards?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 30 May 2025 05:10:11 +0000

The US and the EU seem to have agreed to speed up trade talks after President Trump issued and then postponed a 50 percent tariff threat. While many European leaders welcomed this move, it’s still unclear whether Washington and Brussels can bridge the divide between them. Max Bergmann, the director of the Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program and the Stuart Center in Euro-Atlantic and Northern European Studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, joins Thanos Davelis as we explore whether a trade deal between the EU and the US is in the cards, and look into the deeper questions this looming trade war raises about the transatlantic relationship.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

A big, beautiful EU trade deal with Trump? Dream on!

E.U. says it will fast-track tariff talks with U.S. after Trump threat

Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs halted by Court of International Trade

Foreign Ministry reacts to Egyptian court decision on Sinai monastery

Turkish nationals appear in Greek court after shooting incident with police in Thessaloniki

Erdogan's push for a new constitution and the erosion of Turkish democracy

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 29 May 2025 11:08:14 +0000

This week Turkey’s President Erdogan said he was putting together a team to draft a new constitution, a move that comes in the wake of Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu’s arrest. Many critics see this push for a new constitution as a power play designed to allow Erdogan to remain in power beyond 2028, when his current term ends. Sinan Ciddi, a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and an expert on Turkish politics, joins Thanos Davelis to look into what’s at stake for Turkish democracy and why it matters for the US and Europe.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

A Turkey With No Elections?

Turkey’s Erdogan appoints legal team to draft new constitution, sparking fears of extended rule

India turns its gaze to Cyprus as gateway to Europe and the Middle East

Gov’t drafts tougher law for rejected asylum seekers, Mitsotakis says

What's standing in the way of Turkey and the F-35s?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 28 May 2025 11:13:46 +0000

Reports indicate that President Trump and members of his administration are looking for ways to circumvent or lift CAATSA sanctions and put arms sales, particularly of F-35 jets, back on the table with Turkey. They are coming up against a challenge that is significantly more complex than simply waiving sanctions. Lena Argiri, the DC correspondent for ERT - the Greek Public Broadcasting Company - and Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into why CAATSA may not be the real obstacle standing in the way of Turkey and the F-35s.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

CAATSA sanctions not the real obstacle between Turkey and the F-35 program

Turkey is not acting like a US ally, say AJC and HALC chiefs

Greece hooks up undersea power link to Crete that's key to Mediterranean expansion

Turkey’s Erdogan appoints legal team to draft new constitution, sparking fears of extended rule

The East Med Gateway Act, IMEC, and the looming competition with China

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 27 May 2025 10:58:03 +0000

There’s a new bipartisan bill - the Eastern Mediterranean Gateway Act - that’s once again putting the spotlight on Greece, Cyprus, Israel, and their potential roles in IMEC, a project increasingly seen as the answer to China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of HALC, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why this new legislation matters, look at how the East Med can play a unique role as the West turns toward addressing the challenges posed by China, and explore how Greece and Cyprus fit into this story.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Initiative in US Congress seeks to establish EastMed as strategic hub within IMEC framework

Turkey is not acting like a US ally, say AJC and HALC chiefs

Desalination units arrive in Cyprus

India eyes strategic push in Greece

Europe's €150B defense lending scheme, Turkey's participation, and Greek concerns

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 23 May 2025 01:00:00 +0000

This week EU ambassadors agreed on a €150 billion defense lending scheme, Security Action For Europe, or SAFE. EU officials are calling this "an important step toward a stronger Europe." In a move that has raised eyebrows in Athens and Nicosia, the agreement allows for limited participation by third countries – including Turkey. Following the announcement, Prime Minister Mitsotakis called on Turkey to lift its 30 year threat of war against Greece if it wants access to EU defense funds. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest analysis.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

EU defense fund clears key hurdle

Greece says Turkey must lift war threat to get access to EU defence funds

Panathinaikos and Olympiacos eye EuroLeague trophy in Abu Dhabi Final Four

Postecoglou becomes first Greek soccer coach to raise European cup

Greece doubles drone fleet and deploys record firefighters to tackle growing wildfire risk

Greece and the new cold war between the US and China

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 22 May 2025 01:00:00 +0000

Since before President Trump’s return to office, the focus in the US has been on China. As the Trump administration turns up the pressure on Beijing, this is also putting the spotlight on vital infrastructure - from the Panama canal to China’s Belt and Road initiative. This has the potential to impact Greece as well, given its close ties to the US, the investment China’s Cosco made in the port of Piraeus in the depths of the financial crisis, and its potential role in the IMEC corridor. Alexis Papachelas, the editor in chief of Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis as we explore how competition with China is reshaping the world, and break down what questions this raises for Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece and the new cold war

US has its eye on Greek ports

US to appoint Turkey ambassador Thomas Barrack as special envoy for Syria, sources tell Reuters

Greece’s top diplomat calls war in Gaza a ‘nightmare’

India, Pakistan, and Turkey's arms industry

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 21 May 2025 01:00:00 +0000

The conflict between Pakistan and India has put Turkey’s arms industry in the spotlight, exposing the limits of its much lauded drones and raising questions about whether Turkey’s arms industry is a loser in this latest round of conflict. Michael Rubin, the director of policy analysis at the Middle East Forum and a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into the Turkey angle to the Pakistan-India conflict, and dig into what developments on the ground tell us about Ankara’s arms industry and Erdogan’s ambitions to position Turkey as a military export power.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Is Turkey’s Arms Industry a Loser in the India-Pakistan War?

Mitsotakis highlights Greece’s commitment to maritime security in UN speech

Greece an ‘ideal connector’ in the IMEC corridor

Wildfire season and the lessons from the past

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 20 May 2025 05:28:36 +0000

A recent map published by the EU’s Copernicus program is sounding the alarm ahead of wildfire season showing drought conditions and risk assessments across Europe. This is particularly alarming for southern European countries like Greece, which has seen devastating wildfires in recent years. Nikos Efstathiou, an independent journalist who is studying wildfires and how the media reports on them at the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism in Oxford, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down the latest data, the lessons learned from previous wildfires in Greece, and explore why the way we cover wildfires in the media matters.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Current drought situation in Europe

Athens seeks to curb Turkey’s role in European defense industry

Greek PM marks Pontic Genocide remembrance day

Turkish Cypriots protest against creeping Islamification from Ankara

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 19 May 2025 01:00:00 +0000

A decision earlier this year by authorities in the occupied northern part of Cyprus to allow headscarves in schools has led to mass protests against what many see as President Erdogan’s increasing authoritarianism and a creeping Islamification from Ankara. The protests also touch on broader issues, with Turkish Cypriots expressing concerns about money laundering, crime, and a wider Russian and Iranian presence. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini's English Edition and Politico's Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to break down this protest movement and look at what it says about where Turkish Cypriots stand vis-a-vis Erdogan.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkish Cypriots resist creeping Islamification

Erdogan says US CAATSA sanctions on Turkey defense sector easing under Trump

Greece takes legal action over drone show advertising Adidas near Acropolis

Outrage in Greece after Adidas advert shows drone shoe ‘kicking’ Acropolis

Albania's Edi Rama secures unprecedented fourth term in power

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 16 May 2025 10:45:28 +0000

Albania’s long-time Prime Minister Edi Rama secured an unprecedented fourth consecutive term in Sunday's election, winning a comfortable majority. This win came on the back of a wave of pro-EU sentiment among voters, as Rama made securing EU membership for Albania a key part of his campaign. Rama was also bolstered by a strong network he has built up over 12 years in power. John Psaropoulos joins Thanos Davelis as we look into Albania’s election, its EU ambitions, and what the re-election of Rama means for Greek-Albanian relations.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Rama trounces MAGA-linked opponents to secure historic 4th term in Albania

Albania's Rama wins historic fourth term, opposition says vote stolen

Ministers of Greece, Israel, and Cyprus invite US to join next 3+1 meeting

EU’s Costa calls on North Macedonia to change constitution over impasse with Bulgaria

Trump says US will lift sanctions on Syria in major policy shift

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 15 May 2025 09:09:02 +0000

In a move that took many by surprise, President Trump announced this week that the United States will lift long-standing sanctions on Syria. The decision represents a sea change for Syrians, as UN figures estimate that nine out of ten Syrians live in poverty. This move was also something countries like Saudi Arabia and Turkey had been calling for, with Turkish President Erdogan reportedly raising the issue in calls with President Trump. Steven Cook, the Eni Enrico Mattei senior fellow for Middle East and Africa studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest analysis.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Trump says US to lift Syria sanctions, secures $600 billion Saudi deal

Trump’s Middle East trip makes it a big week for Turkey’s Erdogan

Fresh momentum seen in Washington for lifting sanctions on Turkey

European Commission appoints Johannes Hahn as Special Envoy for Cyprus

Cyprus hails new EU envoy

US gets back to EU on trade war ― hinting at Trump’s willingness to find a deal

The beginning of a new era for Turkey, the Kurds, and the Kurdish issue?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 14 May 2025 08:23:50 +0000

On Monday the Kurdistan Workers’ party, or the PKK, made a historic announcement that it would disband, ending its four-decade-long armed campaign against the Turkish state. The move comes amid a new push to end this conflict, which has claimed more than 40,000 lives and spilled over into Syria and Iraq. Alan Makovsky, a senior fellow for the Center for American Progress and a former senior staffer with responsibility for Turkey on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down whether this really marks a turning point for Turkey and the Kurds’ struggle for political and cultural rights.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

PKK ends 40-year war against Turkey, vows to pursue Kurdish rights

Is Turkey’s four-decade Kurdish insurgency coming to an end?

German, Greek PMs stay tough on migration

Cyprus says Syria will take back citizens trying to reach the Mediterranean island by boat

Is Greece poised to play a key role in IMEC?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 13 May 2025 10:09:44 +0000

Since President Trump stepped back into office, and amid escalating competition with China, it looks like one project we’ve been hearing more and more about is the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor - or IMEC. This is reflected in comments from President Trump, in diplomatic moves we’re seeing in the wider region from Greece to India, and most recently in Congress, where a new legislative initiative is looking to establish the East Med as a strategic hub within the framework of IMEC. George Dikaios, who has been tracking developments related to IMEC, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into why this project is significant and what it could mean for Greece.

George Dikaios is an adjunct lecturer and a researcher at the Department of Ports Management and Shipping at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and a Senior Research Fellow at the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP).

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Connecting Opportunities: Greece’s Strategic Role in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor

Kurdish group PKK says it is laying down arms and disbanding

Kurdish Insurgent Group Says It Is Ending Conflict With Turkish State

Italy commits €360 mln to Greek trains

Greece looks to answer new questions on migration

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 12 May 2025 07:45:35 +0000

From a recent decision in a German court that could pave the way for migrants to be deported back to Greece to a labor shortage ahead of the critical tourism season, migration issues look to be back on the table. This is also the case at the European level, where the EU has gotten tougher on deportations over the past months amid wider concerns about the populist far-right. Angeliki Dimitriadi, an independent researcher and expert on migration, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down how these developments impact Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece says it won't accept refugee returns from Germany

German ruling opens door to Greece deportations

Migrant return rules get tougher

Greece’s booming tourism sector in race to find workers as summer season looms

Albania votes as PM Rama seeks fourth term, promising EU integration

Albanian election result unclear after broadcasters withhold exit polls

Mitsotakis and Meloni face key issues

Merz's rough start as Chancellor and the message it sends to Europe

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 9 May 2025 08:48:07 +0000

Friedrich Merz officially became Chancellor of Germany this week, but only after two rounds of voting in the Bundestag - a first for a new chancellor in postwar German history. His initial failure to clinch the position raises concerns about his leadership, and has Europeans asking whether Germany under Merz can step back into its traditional European leadership role. Katja Hoyer, a historian, journalist and author of Beyond the Wall: A History of East Germany, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down whether Merz is emerging weakened out of the gate, and look into what this means for Europe.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

A Very Rough Start for Germany's New Chancellor Merz

Merz is weakened from Day 1. Europe will pay the price.

Friedrich Merz becomes Germany’s chancellor—after a painful defeat

France and Germany to set up joint security council

US lawmakers sound alarm over Turkey’s aggressive behavior, urge Trump to confront Erdogan

EU sets out possible 95-billion-euro response to US tariffs

Tackling the challenge of low wages in Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 8 May 2025 08:21:39 +0000

Since the pandemic we’ve seen the Greek government step in to tackle low wages, raising the minimum wage from €650 in 2019 to the latest announcement in early April bringing the gross wage up to €880. These steps come amid both a cost of living crisis and a labor shortage ahead of the summer in the tourism industry, but also other key sectors like agriculture and construction. Yannis Mouzakis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into the story of Greek wages, breaking down why this remains a big challenge for the government.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Minimum wage increase crashes against reality of Greeks' low purchasing power

Greece and Egypt sign strategic partnership agreement in Athens

European Parliament maintains block on restarting Turkey accession talks

Trump says US will stop attacking Houthis after they pledged to stop targeting ships

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 7 May 2025 09:53:55 +0000

On Tuesday President Trump said that the US would stop attacking the Houthis in Yemen because the group had "capitulated", adding that the Houthis had pledged to stop attacking ships in the Red Sea. This move comes after pressure from both regional players like Saudi Arabia - which President Trump is planning to visit - and from within the MAGA camp. Sean Mathews, a journalist for the Middle East Eye covering the Middle East, North Africa and the Balkans, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into this announcement and break down what it means for the wider region - including Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Exclusive: Saudi Arabia pressed Trump to stop attacks on Yemen ahead of visit

Trump says the US will stop bombing Yemen’s Houthis after rebels say they’ll stop targeting ships

Greece aims to boost domestic defense industry’s role, Dendias says

Greece leverages defense spending to underscore US alignment

Merz's messy path to power raises questions for future government

Merz is weakened from Day 1. Europe will pay the price.

Trump's call with Erdogan and the wider messages it sends

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 6 May 2025 08:34:11 +0000

President Trump said that he had a "very good and productive" call with Turkish President Erdogan, adding that Erdogan had invited him to Turkey and that he would also be coming to Washington. The call comes in the wake of a new crackdown on dissent in Turkey following the arrest of Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, amid speculation that Turkey could send its Russian S-400 missiles to Syria, and as Israel and Turkey are increasingly at odds over Syria. Henri Barkey, an adjunct senior fellow for Middle East studies at the Council on Foreign Relations and the Cohen chair in international relations at Lehigh University, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into Trump and Erdogan’s call and the wider messages it sends.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Trump says he had a productive call with Turkey's Erdogan, visits planned

EU to set out plans to halt Russian gas imports by end-2027

Greece’s booming tourism sector in race to find workers as summer season looms

Erdogan says Turkey's presence on Cyprus will last "for centuries"

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 5 May 2025 10:32:55 +0000

While visiting the Turkish-occupied northern part of Cyprus this weekend, Turkish President Erdogan said that his country’s presence on the island will continue for centuries, adding that “whoever doesn’t know this must learn it.” Erdogan’s speech drew a swift response from Greece, and comes as the UN is looking to restart talks on the Cyprus issue. At the same time, Athens is looking to resume work on the Great Sea Interconnector that will link its electricity grid with Cyprus and eventually Israel. This could once again test Greek-Turkish relations as Ankara has tried to block this project in the past. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest analysis from Athens.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Athens decries Erdogan’s remarks from Cyprus’ Turkish-occupied north

Erdogan: Turkish occupation of northern Cyprus will last ‘for centuries’

Athens and Sofia seal deal over river access

Cyprus and Israel reach agreement on IMEC electrical interconnection and natural gas development

Congress spotlights Azerbaijan’s crimes in Nagorno Karabakh

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 2 May 2025 09:12:25 +0000

A Congressional hearing organized by Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission this week titled “Human Rights in Azerbaijan since the COP 29 UN Climate Change Conference” put the spotlight on Azerbaijan’s ethnic cleansing of Nagorno Karabakh - or Artsakh - and issues such as securing the release of Armenian hostages illegally held by Baku. The hearing came days after the commemoration of the Armenian Genocide. Aram Hamparian, the Executive Director of the Armenian National Committee of America, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into this hearing, and break down what steps the US can take to hold Azerbaijan accountable.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Rep. Chris Smith Leads Capitol Hill Hearing Spotlighting Azerbaijan’s Genocide of Artsakh; Armenian Prisoners

Trump goes mum on 'Armenian genocide' after Biden recognition

Greece and Cyprus among countries helping Israel battle major wildfire

US and Cyprus deepen defense ties through upcoming high-level talks

Looking back at the Imia crisis and the legacy of US diplomacy

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 1 May 2025 09:51:18 +0000

In January of 1996 Greece and Turkey came close to conflict when the Imia crisis erupted. The US played a critical role in preventing a military escalation through Assistant Secretary of State Richard Holbrooke, and the US ambassadors in Athens and Ankara. Thomas Niles, the US ambassador in Athens at the time who passed away this week, spoke openly about the crisis in the years that followed, noting that the US had made a “big mistake” in not taking a position on Greek sovereignty in the Aegean. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition, joins Thanos Davelis as we look back at the Imia crisis of 1996, the US role in preventing a military confrontation, and its lasting legacy today.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Thomas Niles, US envoy during Imia crisis, dies at 85

Stournaras: Crisis may be Europe’s chance

U.S. Announces Deal to Share Ukraine’s Mineral Wealth

US and Ukraine sign agreement creating investment fund after months of negotiations

The homecoming of Greece’s 'lost children'

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 08:32:52 +0000

The struggle of many Greeks who were sent abroad as children for adoption in the aftermath of the Greek Civil War and the decades that followed is finally coming to an end as the Greek government is now paving the way for them to regain their Greek citizenship. Professor Gonda van Steen, the Koraes Chair at the Centre for Hellenic Studies and Department of Classics at King’s College London and author of the book Adoption, Memory, and Cold War Greece: Kid pro quo?, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into the story of the Greek adoptees and their long and difficult homecoming.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

A long and difficult homecoming

Greece requests EU exemption for 2026 defense spending boost

Greek FM highlights Ukraine support, regional ties at Three Seas Summit

The story of how a green Patriarch led to a green Pope

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 08:49:49 +0000

One of the legacies Pope Francis leaves behind is his commitment to climate action and the environment, a legacy Catholic activists around the world are maintaining. What many people do not realize is that Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, often called the green Patriarch, played a key role in bringing this movement into existence. Bruce Clark, a journalist, author, and commentator on international affairs, religion, and history, joins Thanos Davelis to explore the story of how the green Patriarch led to a green Pope, and look into the close friendship shared by Patriarch Bartholomew and Pope Francis.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

How a green patriarch led to a green pope

Pope Francis, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew shared deep bond

PM Mitsotakis unveils railway safety bill following Tempe tragedy

Greece to install train control systems by September in reform after deadly 2023 crash

Greece, Turkey to continue talking in May

Greece's fragmented opposition and the rise of Zoe Konstantopoulou

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 10:08:14 +0000

Since SYRIZA’s collapse in the 2023 national elections, the focus has been on who can lead the opposition. PASOK is the official opposition in parliament, but now another party is stepping into second place in the polls - the anti-establishment left wing Course of Freedom led by Zoe Konstantopoulou. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition and Politico’s Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into the rise of Zoe Konstantopoulou in the polls and Greece’s shifting political landscape.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The (near) one-woman show courting Greek voters

Zoe Konstantopoulou’s rise and the shifting political landscape

Tempe train crash back to the fore

German ruling opens door to Greece deportations

France supports Greece-Cyprus energy link

Mitsotakis announces 1 billion euros in benefits as Greece posts a budget surplus

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 09:51:59 +0000

In a surprise move after the Easter break, Prime Minister Mitsotakis announced 1 billion euros in benefits. This followed the release of data showing Greece had secured a budget surplus of 1.3 percent. The announcement is also putting a spotlight on Greece’s politics, with many asking if Mitsotakis is charting a course for a third term with this move. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into Greece’s standout fiscal performance, discuss this latest support package, and break down how it ties into Greece’s politics.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece announces 1 billion euros in financial benefits after posting 1.3% budget surplus

PM charts course to third term with promises of more handouts

Trump avoids labeling Armenian mass killings as ‘genocide’

UAE offers free-of-charge portable desalination plants to cover arid Cyprus’ summer water needs

Germany blocks the sale of Eurofighters to Turkey. Should this serve as an example for the US?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 08:59:26 +0000

Germany’s parliament blocked the sale of Eurofighter Typhoon jets to Turkey earlier this month. This decision follows the arrest of Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, and comes amid reports that Turkey is pressing the US to lift CAATSA sanctions and sell it F-35s. Sinan Ciddi, a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and an expert on Turkish politics, and Bradley Bowman, senior director of the Center on Military and Political Power at FDD, join Thanos Davelis as we break down why Germany’s move is significant and whether it should serve as an example to the Trump administration.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

‘Attack on Democracy’: Germany Blocks Eurofighter Sale to Turkey for Imprisoning Opposition Leader

Time For a New Policy Toward Erdogan

FinMin sends message of recovery from IMF Spring Meetings

Greece announces 1 billion euros in financial benefits after posting 1.3% budget surplus

Cyprus' diplomatic win in Central Asia

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 10:42:23 +0000

Earlier this month we saw Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan - Central Asian countries that are also members of the Organization of Turkic States - pledge their support for Cyprus’ sovereignty. The move followed a meeting with top EU officials in Samarkand, and saw Turkish media describe it as a blow for Turkey. Harris Georgiades, the Chairman of the Foreign and European Affairs Committee of Cyprus’ Parliament, Chairman of the “Clerides Institute” and a former Minister of Finance, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down why this is an important diplomatic win, effectively halting Ankara’s efforts to use those states as a vehicle for recognition of the occupied northern part of Cyprus.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Central Asian states send envoys to Cyprus, accept UN resolutions on occupied north

Banks discovering Greek startups

Greek leaders mourn Pope Francis, praise his moral leadership

Pope Francis, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew shared deep bond

'Touristification' takes hold in Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 09:40:26 +0000

As Greece prepares for another hectic tourism season, it’s not just the popular island destinations that are bracing for the arrival of travelers from around the world. Over the past years, however, we’ve seen almost every region of Greece turn to tourism, a shift experts highlight is unique across the European Union. This trend of touristification - at the expense of other industries - raises concerns about the sustainability of Greece’s tourism model. Alexia Kalaitzi, an award-winning journalist and features reporter for Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into this touristification phenomenon taking shape across Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Τουριστικοποίηση: Πρωταθλήτρια Ευρώπης η Ελλάδα

‘Attack on Democracy’: Germany Blocks Eurofighter Sale to Turkey for Imprisoning Opposition Leader

US lawmakers against Turkish plans to transfer S-400 to Syria

Keeping the pressure on Erdogan over Imamoglu's arrest

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 08:24:36 +0000

Since Turkish President Erdogan arrested Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, the country has been rocked by protests and political uncertainty. In the meantime, the main opposition is looking to keep up the pressure on Erdogan and translate anger over Imamoglu’s arrest into a cause that resonates broadly with voters. Dr. Lisel Hintz, Assistant Professor of International Relations at Johns Hopkins University's School of Advanced International Studies and an expert on Turkey, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how Imamoglu’s arrest continues to impact Turkish politics, and break down why Turkey’s democratic future matters beyond its own borders.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

How Turkey’s opposition plans to take on Erdoğan

Turkish court rejects appeal to release Imamoglu as protests persist

Why Turkey’s democratic future matters for the world

Greece declares EEZ in Ionian Sea after unveiling maritime spatial plan

''This isn’t about headscarves, it’s about who we are''

Why Serbs have taken to the streets over the past months

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 09:28:20 +0000

For five months Serbs have been taking to the streets, resulting in an unprecedented anti-corruption protest movement. The movement’s sustained momentum has put longtime Serbian President Alexandar Vucic under pressure, and has seen him step up efforts to quash the protests. Professor James Ker-Lindsay, who has worked extensively on the EU, the Balkans and Southeast Europe, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into why Serbs have taken to the streets over the past months, what this means for President Vucic, and the broader spillover effect these protests could have on the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Serbia’s unfinished revolution

Serbia's president issues threats to silence student protests

EU confronts Vučić as protests rage in Serbia

ECB cuts rates on weak growth, markets bet on more easing

F-16 upgrade negotiations with the US continue as key differences persist

Erdogan gambles at home and abroad

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 09:32:06 +0000

For over two decades Turkey’s President Erdogan has endured a number of challenges to his power - from court corruption investigations and close elections to a failed coup in 2016 - and has emerged more powerful. The decision to arrest Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu and Turkey’s assertive presence in Syria are Erdogan’s latest gambles. Ryan Gingeras, a professor in the Department of National Security Affairs at the Naval Postgraduate School and an expert on Turkish, Balkan, and Middle East history, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down whether this could be Erdogan’s last great gamble.

The views expressed in this interview do not reflect the views of the US government.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Erdogan’s last great gamble

Gerapetritis highlights importance of maritime spatial plan

Greece finalizes marine spatial planning, releases official map

Frontex: Illegal crossings into Europe down one third in a year

Uncertainty from Trump's America spurs Europe into action

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 08:32:11 +0000

From tariffs to Greenland, Ukraine and European security, it seems Europeans have been left guessing when it comes to what President Trump wants. This is spurring Europe into action, as EU states look to America-proof their defense and security in the face of Russia’s continued aggression in Ukraine. Shashank Joshi, defense editor at The Economist, joins Thanos Davelis as we explore what this lack of clarity from Washington means for Europe, and break down Europe’s response - particularly on the defense front.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Europe cannot fathom what Trumpian America wants from it

Trump May Blow Up U.S. Defense Sales to Europe

Europe’s armsmakers have ramped up capacity

Europe should buy from Ukraine’s defence industry

How Turkey’s opposition plans to take on Erdoğan

President unveils ''Brain Gain'' campaign

Greece to repay its first debt-crisis bailout loans 10 years early

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 08:00:10 +0000

In an exclusive with Reuters, Greek officials said the country plans to pay off loans granted under the first of three debt-crisis bailouts by 2031, ten years ahead of schedule. This marks yet another milestone in the country’s economic comeback, putting Greece on track to lose the label of the most indebted country in the EU. Yannis Palaiologos, a correspondent-at-large for Kathimerini and the author of “The Thirteenth Labour of Hercules”, a book on the Greek crisis, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into this latest story, and see how it fits into the broader picture of Greece’s economic comeback.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Exclusive: Greece to repay first bailout loans by 2031, 10 years early

Trump Has Added Risk to the Surest Bet in Global Finance

Closer French-Greek defense ties seen

Central Asian states send envoys to Cyprus, accept UN resolutions on occupied north

Has interest from US energy giants in Greece "killed" the illegal Turkish-Libyan accord?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 08:30:24 +0000

Early this year American energy giant Chevron expressed interest in exploring for hydrocarbons in Greek waters off the coast of the Peloponnese. Just a few weeks ago, it expressed new interest in areas south of Crete. This vote of confidence is not only raising questions about what potential discoveries could mean for Greece and Europe, but are also delivering an important win for international law as they essentially “kill” the illegal Turkish-Libyan accord. John Psaropoulos joins Thanos Davelis as we look into why energy giants like Chevron and Exxon are looking at Greece, and break down why Chevron’s moves south of Crete are a victory for international law.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Gas interest off Crete kills Turkish-Libyan accord EU once denounced as “illegal"

Greece to repay first bailout loans by 2031, 10 years early

Erdogan's main rival in Turkey makes first court appearance since arrest

Tackling the security challenges posed by malign actors in the East Med

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 06:33:58 +0000

As countries in the Eastern Mediterranean - particularly Greece, Cyprus, and Israel - deepen their ties, they are also faced with the challenges posed by malign actors across the region. This includes countries like Russia, Iran, and Turkey, but also non-state actors like Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis in the Red Sea. Jonathan Spyer, director of research at the Middle East Forum and a contributor to the Jerusalem Post, the Wall Street Journal and The Australian, joins Thanos Davelis as we explore these security challenges and look at how East Med countries can work together to address them.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

No One Should Be Surprised About the Syrian Massacres

Turkey, Israel have begun talks to avoid clashes in Syria, sources say

High-stakes poker over energy link

PM: ‘A trade war only produces losers’

How the East Med is transforming Middle East security

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 10:15:49 +0000

Since the discovery of natural gas almost 15 years ago in the Eastern Mediterranean, we’ve seen this region come together in unexpected ways. Ties have expanded beyond Greece, Cyprus and Israel to include a number of Middle East countries, the US, and the EU, and have moved well beyond energy into the security realm as well. Michael Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, and Gregg Roman, executive director of the Middle East Forum, join Thanos Davelis to look at how East Med diplomacy is transforming the security landscape of the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Trump reacts to Mitsotakis interview: ‘I appreciate his comments’

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis: Europe Can Find ‘Win-Win Solution’ with President Trump on Trade that Is ‘Mutually Beneficial’

‘No room for complacency’ in wildfire strategy

Trump tests Europe with tariffs and on Le Pen's conviction

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 9 Apr 2025 09:30:06 +0000

Since stepping into office, President Trump has shown a willingness to fracture the trans-Atlantic alliance with his tariffs and demands for higher military spending. While tariffs top the agenda, we’ve also seen President Trump wade into European politics, weighing in on Marine Le Pen’s conviction in France. Steven Erlanger, the chief diplomatic correspondent for The New York Times covering Europe, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the challenges these tariffs present for Europe and the transatlantic partnership, look into the Le Pen conviction, and explore the links between the European right and the MAGA movement.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The Predatory Friend: Trump Treats Europe as Anything but an Ally

Trump Weighs In, Making Marine Le Pen’s Case Part of the Politics of Grievance

‘FREE MARINE LE PEN!’ Trump lodges defense of convicted French far-right icon

Flights and ferries halted in Greece as unions call general strike

Erdogan says opposition seeking to obstruct Istanbul mayor probe

A new age of global economic competition?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 8 Apr 2025 05:44:41 +0000

Last week President Trump’s announcement of global tariffs on both allies and adversaries went beyond most predictions, and we’ve seen experts talk about a US declaration of economic war on the world, while others warn of economic havoc, recession, and fears of a sharp global economic slowdown. Matthew Goodman, the director of the Greenberg Center for Geoeconomic Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into the message these tariffs - which have been called the biggest break in America’s trade policy in over a century - send around the world.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Trump’s Tariffs Are Latest Sign of His Second-Term Appetite for Risk

President Trump’s mindless tariffs will cause economic havoc

Markets Swing Wildly as Trump Holds His Ground on Tariff Plan

IMF praises Greek economy’s momentum, warns of inflation risks

EU says it prefers negotiations, but proposes first tariffs on US imports

Europe Gears Up to Make Its First Countermove to Trump Tariffs

Israeli strikes in Syria and the growing tensions with Turkey

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 7 Apr 2025 07:16:27 +0000

Israel stepped up airstrikes on Syria last week, declaring the attacks a warning to the new Islamist rulers in Damascus. At the same time, it accused Turkey of trying to turn Syria - given its influence with the new interim government - into a Turkish protectorate. These strikes came days after Turkish President Erdogan reportedly called for the destruction of Israel, and ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to the White House. Jonathan Schanzer, the executive director at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into the growing tensions between Israel and Turkey.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Israel steps up Syria strikes, says Turkey aims for 'protectorate'

Echoing Hamas, Erdogan reportedly calls for Israel's destruction amid push to rekindle ties with Trump

Trump and Netanyahu will meet again Monday on Gaza, tariffs and more

Sparks could fly over power cable

EU seeks unity in first strike back at Trump tariffs

Greece braces for Trump's tariffs

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 4 Apr 2025 09:02:34 +0000

President Trump announced sweeping tariffs this week, targeting both allies and adversaries. Europe was obviously not spared from these measures. Greek exporters are also preparing for the fallout from these tariffs, which come as the US market has grown in importance for Greek products like wine, feta, olive oil, cement, and aluminum over the past few years. Dimitra Manifava, a journalist with Kathimerini covering business stories and the economy, joins Thanos Davelis to look into what these tariffs could mean for Greek exports.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece braces for double whammy from Trump tariffs

US tariffs worry Greece, too

Greek feta producers fret over exports after US tariffs

Israel steps up Syria strikes, says Turkey aims for 'protectorate'

As Unexplained Quakes Ease, Tourist Island Insists It’s Open for Business

Greece's €25 billion defense strategy

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 3 Apr 2025 09:45:30 +0000

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis just announced Greece will allocate €25 billion as part of a 12-year defense strategy that is going to be transformative for the country’s armed forces. The plan is forward looking, focusing on the integration of advanced defense technologies and the active participation of the Greek defense industry in all defense programs. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ vision for the Greek armed forces in the 21st century.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece plans €25 billion defense overhaul with new strategy

Cypriot leaders agree to form Bicommunal Youth Technical Committee

Rival leaders of split Cyprus make inroads to work together but rift remains

Turkey denounces opposition calls for a day of no shopping

Why Turkey poses a moral and strategic risk for European security

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 2 Apr 2025 08:18:01 +0000

As Europeans look to boost their security and defense capabilities, there’s an ongoing debate about including Turkey in this discussion. This is raising a number of moral and strategic concerns, especially given the recent arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu and Turkey’s ties to Russia. Ambassador Marc Pierini, a senior fellow at Carnegie Europe and former EU ambassador to Turkey, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why including Ankara in any future plans on European security could prove deeply problematic.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey’s Ambivalence Is a Threat to European Security

Greece unveils 12-year defense plan

Severe storms batter Greek islands for a second day, with Crete hardest hit

Greece's role in Europe's race for critical minerals

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 1 Apr 2025 09:32:34 +0000

Europe’s race to secure critical minerals and break its dependence on China has put the spotlight on Greece after the bloc announced a list of strategic projects that include a Greek aluminum plant that will soon extract gallium - a critical metal used in everything from advanced semiconductors to military radar systems. Alexandra Voudouri, Kathimerini’s Brussels correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down how Greece can play a crucial role in this race for critical minerals.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Europe races to secure critical minerals as global supply tensions mount

Commission selects 47 Strategic Projects to secure and diversify access to raw materials in the EU

Greece and US officials discuss Chevron’s interest in offshore hydrocarbon exploration blocks

Erdogan brings Greece and Israel closer

The urgent need for justice and inclusivity in Syria

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 07:33:22 +0000

As we entered 2025, there was a sense of cautious optimism about Syria. With Assad gone, many hoped the country could finally begin to turn a page. Instead, earlier this month over 1,000 civilians were killed in an outburst of sectarian violence prompting global concern. This concern is especially acute among Syria’s religious and ethnic minorities. With Syria standing at a pivotal moment, Nadine Maenza joins Thanos Davelis to highlight how lasting peace and stability can only be achieved through genuine inclusion and equal citizenship for all Syrians.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Syria at a Crossroad: After Mass Killings, Can They Build a Just and Inclusive Future?

Great Sea Interconnector moves ahead

Southern Europe rebuffs von der Leyen’s debt-based defense plan

Why Trump should not give in to Erdogan on F-35s and sanctions

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 08:28:17 +0000

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio just hosted his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan in Washington this week, a move that came days after the arrest of Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu and after reports that Turkish President Erdogan is pressing President Trump to lift CAATSA sanctions and sell Turkey F-35s. Sinan Ciddi, a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and an expert on Turkish politics, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Rubio’s meeting with Fidan and discuss his latest piece in The Hill breaking down why the White House should send a clear message to Erdogan that readmission to the F-35 program will come at a high cost.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey’s readmission to the F-35 program must come with a cost

Cyprus receives FBI report on measures to tackle financial crime and sanctions evasion

Greece’s Metlen sees gallium production at 50 T in 2028, enough to cover EU needs

The Greek-American story and the new challenges for the community

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 09:38:19 +0000

Greek independence day was once again celebrated in the White House this year, carrying on a tradition that goes back decades and spans multiple presidencies. This undoubtedly puts the Greek-American story in the spotlight, and that’s the story we want to dig into today. Professor Alexander Kitroeff joins Thanos Davelis as we look beyond this White House event to the Greek-American experience as a whole, from the early immigrants who arrived looking for opportunity to the new challenges the community faces today.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

President Trump hosts Greek Independence Day celebration: ‘The legacy of the Greeks is all around us’

Turkey's opposition leader vows protests will continue 'in every city'

Chevron interest bolsters Greek offshore push

Greece in Trump's new world

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 08:35:26 +0000

The first couple months of the Trump administration have shocked Europe, with Washington’s moves on Ukraine, its statements on European defense, and tariffs taking center stage. As Europe recovers from the shock, it’s looking to adapt to this new reality. Where does this leave countries like Greece, and what can Greece bring to the table both when it comes to European defense and security, but also in the bilateral relationship with Washington? Constantinos Filis, the director of the Institute of Global Affairs and a professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into this question.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece’s geopolitical advantages

Turkey-US: Rubio ‘appreciative’ but also critical of Turkey

Mitsotakis’ Independence Day message focuses on unity and economic strength

The political and economic crises in the wake of Imamoglu's arrest

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 10:32:56 +0000

The ongoing protests in Turkey following the arrest of Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu have led to not only arrests of demonstrators and journalists, but also a rout in Turkey’s currency and stock market. As Turkish President Erdogan tries to manage the fallout from Imamoglu’s arrest, many are asking whether this decision to move against his main political rival is looking like his biggest strategic mistake yet. Wolfango Piccoli, the co-founder of risk analysis company Teneo, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into the wider fallout from Imamoglu’s arrest.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Erdogan calls Turkey protests 'evil' as unrest continues

As protests over Imamoglu arrest rock Turkey, what's next for Erdogan?

Turkey scrambles to stop financial rout

President Trump hosts Greek Independence Day celebration- ‘The legacy of the Greeks is all around us’

Cyprus gets credit rating boost: What it means for the economy

Erdogan looking for Trump to lift CAATSA sanctions and sell Turkey F-35s

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 09:50:58 +0000

For over four years, Turkey was unable to get the Biden administration to lift CAATSA sanctions. Now, as we are seeing in various reports, this issue is back on the table following a call between President Trump and President Erdogan last week. Aside from the lifting of sanctions, the biggest prize Erdogan reportedly was after in his call with Trump was the sale of F-35 fighter jets. This comes despite the fact that Turkey’s purchase of Russian S-400 missiles remains an unresolved issue. Lena Argiri, the DC correspondent for ERT - the Greek Public Broadcasting Company - and Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest scoop from Washington, DC.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Potential upcoming developments regarding the lifting of CAATSA

Will Trump betray MAGA for Turkey’s Erdoğan?

Fierce protests in Turkey after Erdogan rival jailed

Greece’s ‘nouvelle vague’ sinks the Scots in Glasgow

Scotland relegated in Nations League as Karetsas leads Greece demolition job

Moody's upgrades Greece to investment grade

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 09:51:02 +0000

Moody’s recently upgraded Greece to investment grade, becoming the last major ratings agency to do so since Greece emerged from its financial crisis in the 2010s. The Greek government welcomed the news, with former Finance Minister Kostis Hatzidakis saying the upgrade marks the end of “a major cycle” for Greece, while Prime Minister Mitsotakis reiterated that Greece is “fully committed to reforms that attract investment, create jobs, and drive sustainable growth.” Yiannis Mouzakis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, a political and economic analysis site that focuses on Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what this decision means for Greece’s economy.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Moody’s upgrades Greece to investment grade on strong fiscal recovery and stability

Moody's upgrading Greece to investment grade puts an end to painful 15-year cycle

EU leaders vow to continue backing Ukraine, but make no concrete pledge

‘As real as it can get’: EU to loan €150bn for European defence from invasion

Greece extends by a year visas for Turkish nationals to visit islands

Turkey in crisis as Erdogan moves against main rival Imamoglu

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 08:28:16 +0000

On Wednesday Turkish authorities detained Ekrem Imamoglu, the popular mayor of Istanbul and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s strongest political rival, a move that follows a wider crackdown on opposition figures over the past months. Imamoglu, who was preparing to assume the presidency of the CHP, the main opposition party, has said he will not back down. Henri Barkey, an adjunct senior fellow for Middle East studies at the Council on Foreign Relations and the Cohen chair in international relations at Lehigh University, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Imamoglu’s arrest, a move many see as bringing Turkey closer to endless Erdogan rule.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Istanbul mayor arrested days before likely presidential nomination

Erdogan rival arrested days before becoming presidential candidate

Turkey moves closer to endless Erdogan rule as biggest rival detained

Turkish Markets Sink Most in World as Erdogan Deepens Purge

Athens moving ahead with power link

Guterres announces new round of Cyprus talks in July

Progress by avoiding setbacks as Geneva talks keep Cyprus dialogue alive

Does Erdogan's willingness to meet with Kurdish leaders signal a shift in the peace process with the PKK?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 08:48:56 +0000

For months Turkey’s President Erdogan has avoided wading into the latest peace process with Turkey’s Kurds and the PKK. Last week he broke his silence, saying he was prepared to meet with members of the country’s pro-Kurdish DEM Party who have played a key role in talks with Abdullah Ocalan. Amberin Zaman, Al-Monitor’s chief correspondent based in Paris and covering major stories on Turkey, the Middle East and North Africa, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what Erdogan's willingness to engage with Kurdish leaders means for this process.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey’s Erdogan says he's ready to meet with Kurds brokering peace with PKK

Turkey's Erdogan discusses Russia-Ukraine war, Syria in first official call with Trump

Erdoğan’s top rival detained, faces block to presidential candidacy

Turkey detains Erdogan's main rival on array of charges

Jake Sullivan: ‘We worked behind the scenes’

The Greece, Cyprus, Israel partnership, shifting geopolitics, and Mediterranean stability

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 10:21:17 +0000

Last week on Thursday the foreign ministers of Greece, Cyprus and Israel met in Athens, a meeting that put their trilateral relationship back in the spotlight. This meeting also came as the region deals with important questions that range from the future of a post-Assad Syria to Washington’s commitment to European security. Dr. Gallia Lindenstrauss, a senior fellow at Israel's National Institute of Security Studies, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the challenges and opportunities for the trilateral partnership between Greece, Cyprus, and Israel in a shifting geopolitical environment.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Backing for Greece-Cyprus power link

Athens weighing its strategic options

Turkey's Erdogan seeks meeting with Trump, Bloomberg News says

Turkey's Erdogan discusses Russia-Ukraine war, Syria in first official call with Trump

Mitsotakis pledges tax cuts and increased investments during Finance Ministry visit

Prime Minister Mitsotakis' new cabinet

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 09:31:47 +0000

Late last week Prime Minister Mitsotakis announced his broadest cabinet reshuffle yet in the wake of national protests over the handling of the Tempe train crash two years ago. As Mitsotakis looks to rebuild trust with voters, his cabinet is also becoming younger. The Prime Minister promoted several ministers in their 40s, emphasizing the need for younger leaders who can energize governance while delivering policy results. Niko Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author, joins Thanos Davelis as we look at Greece’s new cabinet, breaking down the message it sends to Greek voters.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greek PM tweaks cabinet after train crash protests

Greek Premier Reshuffles Cabinet After Train Crash Protests

Youth takes lead in new government lineup

Moody’s upgrades Greece to investment grade on strong fiscal recovery and stability

Moody’s upgrade significant for the Greek economy, says gov’t spox

Cyprus about to join US Visa Waiver

Greece and the growing rift between the US and Europe

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 09:31:40 +0000

The past few months have rocked the Transatlantic relationship, as European leaders try to come to terms with a growing rift between Europe and the US that ranges from Ukraine to questions about America’s overall commitment to European defense and security. As the gap between Europe and America widens, this is also raising key questions in Greece, a key US ally and member of the EU. Ian Lesser, the vice president and Brussels chief of the German Marshall Fund of the United States, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what’s at stake for Europe, and look at how Greece can navigate this new reality, balancing its ties with the US and its European partners.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

US or EU? Does Greece need to choose?

Trump threatens tariffs on European wine and spirits in escalating trade war

Backing for Greece-Cyprus power link

A turning point for Syria's Kurds?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 08:17:34 +0000

A deal signed earlier this week by Syria’s interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, and the commander in chief of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, Mazlum Kobane, is viewed by many as a turning point for Syria’s Kurds. It also comes amid escalating violence across Syria which has cast serious doubts over al-Sharaa’s ability to earn the trust of his people and govern. Steven Cook, the Eni Enrico Mattei senior fellow for Middle East and Africa studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis to explore whether this deal is really a game changer for Syria and Syria’s Kurds, and break down the roles of outside forces - particularly the US and Turkey - in this story.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Syrian Kurds celebrate deal with Damascus as coastal residents remain wary after violence

Syria’s Kurds win big as Sharaa shakes hands with Kobane to save his own skin

Konstantinos Tasoulas to be sworn in as president Thursday

PM eyes major cabinet shake-up

The EU wants to increase deportations and supports ‘return hubs’ in third countries

Europe cracks down on migration. The far right is cheering.

Mitsotakis looks to shake things up

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 09:32:44 +0000

Almost two years into his second term, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is now set to reboot his government, with announcements of a cabinet reshuffle expected later this week or early next week. The move comes after a string of national protests over the Tempe rail crash, and amid an uncertain geopolitical environment that is raising a number of questions across Europe. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder and editor of the economic and political analysis site Macropolis, joins Thanos Davelis to look into the challenges and opportunities for Prime Minister Mitsotakis as he looks to shake up his team.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

PM ponders reshuffle as PASOK mulls inability to make gains

Radical reshuffle or mere recycling?

After the Tempe clashes, what?

Kurdish-led SDF agrees to integrate with Syrian government forces

EU to impose counter tariffs on $28 billion of US goods

EU wields ‘sledgehammer’ against Trump tariffs

Greece’s population decline and its need for growth

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 08:54:55 +0000

For many, the economic crisis that gripped Greece in the previous decade is over. However, its legacy is still there, and it goes well beyond the country’s economy. One such legacy is Greece’s birthrate, which was already declining, but the crisis accelerated its fall. As Greece faces a declining population, it also needs to ensure economic growth, and the question many are asking, including our guest today, is whether Greece can thrive with a shrinking population. John Psaropoulos joins Thanos Davelis as we look into Greece’s demographic challenge, one that Prime Minister Mitsotakis has called “existential”.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Can Greece thrive with a shrinking population?

Mitsotakis to unveil 12-year, €28 billion defense armament program

Trump highlights Greece-Cyprus role in strategic trade corridor

Realigning US policy to reflect Turkey's drift away from the West

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 09:50:34 +0000

Late last week a bipartisan group of lawmakers in the House of Representatives introduced a piece of legislation that would redesignate Turkey as a Near Eastern country at the State Department, rather than a European country. The legislation followed a hearing in the House on Turkey, where serious concerns about Turkey’s role as a US and NATO ally were expressed. Endy Zemenides, HALC’s Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why this legislation on Turkey matters, especially given Ankara’s record that shows it is increasingly at odds with Western security interests.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Bipartisan legislation seeks to rein in Erdogan's Turkey over ties to US foes

Bridging the Gap: Turkey Between East and West

Rubio says Syria must hold accountable 'perpetrators of massacres'

Government seeks fresh start as social pressure mounts

Higher European defense budgets a first step, production needed, NATO’s Rutte says

Sectarian Killings Along Syria’s Coast Spiral Into Crisis for New Government

Syria’s Interim President Calls for Unity Amid Fresh Fighting

Europe's security, Greece, and the challenge of Turkish revisionism

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 7 Mar 2025 09:31:19 +0000

Turkey’s Erdogan has once again played up his country’s importance on the world stage - especially when it comes to defense issues - telling Europeans that their security is “unthinkable without Turkey.” These comments come despite Ankara’s well documented and aggressive moves in the region, from the Aegean and the Eastern Mediterranean to the Caucasus. Michael Rubin, the director of policy analysis at the Middle East Forum and a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss what Europe and countries in the region like Greece can do to address the challenge Turkey poses today.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece Must Match Turkey’s Aggressiveness

Turkey’s growing defense industry deepening ties with European powers

Italian research vessel departs Crete amid energy project uncertainty

Geopolitics freeze payments for Greece-Cyprus linkup

Turkish Cypriot minister says UN meeting will lead nowhere

A US vote of confidence in Lebanon?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 6 Mar 2025 08:52:00 +0000

Despite the Trump administration’s 90-day freeze on foreign aid, the State Department announced it was unfreezing $95 million in military assistance to Lebanon. The move is seen as a vote of confidence from the US in the new political order emerging in Lebanon, and in its efforts to continue to degrade Hezbollah. Steven Howard, the Director of Policy and Outreach at the American Task Force on Lebanon (ATFL), and Sean Mathews, a journalist for the Middle East Eye covering the Middle East, North Africa and the Balkans, join Thanos Davelis to break down why these funds matter for Lebanon, which is looking to rebuild after years of crises, and for the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

US green lights $95 million in aid for Lebanon’s army

Trump administration approves $95m in aid to Lebanon's military

US secretary of state hails Nicosia’s strategic role

EU leaders holding emergency meeting in Brussels on defense, Ukraine

Emergency EU summit seeks to bolster defence to counter US pivot from alliance

Alexandroupoli: An essential regional hub for Greece, the US, and NATO

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 5 Mar 2025 10:13:33 +0000

Last week, a fake news report claiming the US was going to ditch Alexandroupoli put the northern Greek port city in the spotlight. This report even reached the Oval Office, where President Trump quickly shut down the story. In the wake of the story, Kathimerini recently took a deep dive into the numbers, looking at how Alexandroupoli has become an essential hub for both commercial and military operations. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to explore the important role Alexandroupoli is playing in the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Vital role of Greek port uncontested

EU chief unveils €800bn plan to ‘rearm’ Europe

EU pushes emergency plan to send €150B in defense loans to governments

UN sends official invitation for enlarged meeting on the Cyprus issue on March 17,18

Germany's recent election and why it matters for Europe

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 4 Mar 2025 10:19:32 +0000

Germany’s recent election paved the way for the leader of the opposition conservative Christian Democrats, Friedrich Merz, to take over as chancellor once coalition talks wrap up. The election is also raising broader questions about German and European politics, with the far-right AfD making big gains, while the question remains whether Merz is up to the challenge given the new geopolitical landscape taking shape. Tom Nuttall, The Economist’s chief Germany correspondent and head of the Berlin bureau, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Germany’s recent election, and break down why it matters for Europe.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Merz wins a messy election then calls for independence from America

Asylum cases in Europe fell 11% last year. Here's a look at the numbers

Cyprus, US strengthen military alliance with special operations drill

PKK leader Ocalan's call for peace between Turkey and the Kurds

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 3 Mar 2025 10:49:07 +0000

Last week Abdullah Ocalan, the imprisoned leader of the PKK, called on the movement to lay down its arms and dissolve. Ocalan’s historic announcement has many hoping that it will bring an end to nearly 4 decades of conflict between Ankara and the country’s Kurds. On Friday, Thanos Davelis spoke to Giran Ozcan, the Executive Director of the Kurdish Peace Institute and a former representative of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) in the US, to break down this historic call from Ocalan, and look at what we should keep an eye on as this process unfolds. Since our discussion, the PKK has declared a ceasefire with Turkey.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

End of an era? PKK leader Ocalan orders militants to end war with Turkey, 'dissolve'

Kurdish group PKK declares ceasefire with Turkey

Rubio reaffirms US-Greek strategic importance in meeting with Gerapetritis

Mitsotakis says government will work to make trains safe

PASOK push for no-confidence vote against government

Trump threatens to hit the EU with 25% tariffs

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 11:13:35 +0000

On Wednesday President Trump said the EU was formed to “screw the United States,” then announced he would hit the EU with 25% tariffs. This has prompted a reaction from European officials and capitals, who point out that the EU has had the opposite effect, fostering closer business ties and trade links with the US. Maria Demertzis, the chief economist for Europe at the Conference Board in Brussels, joins Thanos Davelis to look into the European reaction to these statements, and break down what this could mean for the economies of the US and EU, including Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Trump says 25% tariffs on EU will be announced soon

Trump’s threatened 25% tariffs on EU imports could trigger ‘economic turmoil’

EU to Trump on tariffs: Go ahead, make our day.

Hundreds of thousands protest across Greece over deadly train crash

As anger mounts over rail disaster in Greece, thousands join protests

Jailed Kurdish leader issues call to lay down arms

End of an era? PKK leader Ocalan orders militants to end war with Turkey, ‘dissolve’

Europe in Trump's new world

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 09:23:28 +0000

President Donald Trump’s return to office has been described as an “electroshock” in Europe, with leading politicians like Germany’s Friedrich Merz openly pledging “independence from the US.” Aside from his antagonistic approach toward Europe - from security to tariffs - Trump is also sending a clear signal that he wants to leave European affairs to Europeans while the US pivots toward China. Andrew Novo, a professor of strategic studies at the National Defense University in Washington, DC, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what’s at stake for Europe as the US turns its attention elsewhere, and how countries like Greece and Cyprus can react to this new reality.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

US to Europe — Get Used to a New World

We need to start thinking transactionally

Trump says 25% tariffs on EU will be announced soon

Indifference or Hostility? Trump’s View of European Allies Raises Alarm

Jailed Kurdish militant leader's message to be shared on Thursday

PKK leader Ocalan set to make historic peace call between Turkey and the Kurds

Demonstrations, global uncertainty, and the test for Greece's political system

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 10:11:39 +0000

Greece is bracing for demonstrations that will bring the country to a halt this Friday, as it marks the two-year anniversary of the Tempe rail crash - the country’s worst ever rail disaster in which 57 people died. The public outcry is testing the political system, from the government to the opposition, with Prime Minister Mitsotakis acknowledging public demands for truth and justice while condemning efforts to politicize the tragedy. Wolfango Piccoli, the co-founder of risk analysis company Teneo, joins Thanos Davelis to look into the broader ramifications of Tempe for Greece’s political system, while exploring how the current uncertainty in Europe and the US factor into the challenges facing Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Public outcry tests the political system

Mitsotakis: Justice, not political games

The week that will bring the country to a halt

Gerapetritis to meet Rubio for key talks

Greek destination is increasingly popular in Australia, US

Trump, Russia, and the possibility of a Ukraine deal

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 10:17:50 +0000

Monday, February 24, marked three years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. As President Trump looks to bring a swift end to the war, his and his officials’ statements on Ukraine, President Zelensky, and European security, along with the decision to bypass allies and engage in talks with Russia’s Putin, have left many in the West with a deep sense of unease. Thomas Graham, a distinguished fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and author of the book Getting Russia Right, joins Thanos Davelis to look into what’s at stake three years into this war, and what to make of President Trump’s moves on Ukraine.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The Art of a Ukraine Deal

Media Briefing: Trump, Russia, and the Future of Ukraine

Countdown begins for contested sea surveys

Trump dismisses reports that US is shutting down military base in Greece

Is Turkey finding itself marginalized in the Trump 2.0 era?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 09:39:35 +0000

While Turkey may have expected that a second Trump term would mean improved ties with the White House, the first month of the Trump administration has shown us that Washington still views Turkey as an unreliable partner. In fact, Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s recent engagements with the Middle East point to a regional strategy that seems to marginalize Ankara. Sinan Ciddi, a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and an expert on Turkish politics, joins Thanos Davelis to look into whether Erdogan’s Turkey is finding itself on the outside of the Trump administration’s regional strategy.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey Marginalized? How Trump’s Middle East Strategy is Rewriting Alliances

Germany's conservatives celebrate, but far right enjoy record result

Merz wins a messy election then calls for independence from America

Gov’t braces for Tempe anniversary protests

Cyprus and Egypt sign "pivotal" energy agreements

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 11:19:40 +0000

Earlier this week Cypriot President Christodoulides was in Egypt where the two countries signed two energy agreements that he described as “pivotal”. The deals would enable the export of gas from Cyprus’s offshore fields to Egypt for liquefaction and re-export to Europe, and, as President Christodoulides posted on X, “are game changers for the region and beyond”. Dr. Theodoros Tsakiris, a professor of geopolitics and energy policy at the University of Nicosia in Cyprus, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why these two deals are important for Cyprus, Egypt, and the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Egypt, Cyprus sign gas export deals, boosting Eastern Mediterranean energy cooperation

PM calls on EU to ‘move from words to action’ in defense

Erdogan's fight with Turkish business stirs economic concern

The new crackdown brewing in Turkey

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 10:23:01 +0000

Earlier this week we saw Turkish police detain 282 people accused of ties to the PKK. This included journalists, politicians, and academics. These arrests are taking place as Ankara continues to remove elected pro-Kurdish mayors from their posts. At the same time, they coincide with reports that a deal could be at hand over the country’s Kurdish question. Piotr Zalewski, The Economist's Turkey correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into this new crackdown in Turkey and its broader implications.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

A new crackdown is gathering strength in Turkey

Turkey detains 282 suspects in a dayslong operation against Kurdish insurgents

Meeting Again in Paris, European Leaders Try to Recalibrate After Trump Sides With Russia

Macron holds new emergency talks on Ukraine

West’s ‘crisis’ coalition grows as Trump rails against Zelenskyy

Athens resists as investors swoop on the city’s ‘neighbourhood of the gods’

In Steve Bannon's "War Room"

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 08:43:19 +0000

It’s safe to say that Steve Bannon, a one-time close adviser to Donald Trump and the voice of the MAGA movement, has a unique role in both the Republican camp and in driving the conversation in Washington, DC in the Trump 2.0 era. Kathimerini’s Iliana Magra, who met with Steve Bannon last week in Washington, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss her in-depth interview with Bannon, which touched on his views on Greece, Turkey and the region, and the broader outlook for the Trump 2.0 era and the MAGA movement.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Steve Bannon: Greece would be finished in 10 years if Trump hadn’t returned to power

Turkey detains nearly 300 people in raids on PKK suspects, including opposition figures

Turkey detains 282 suspects in a dayslong operation against Kurdish insurgents

'We are back' Greek shipyards say after decades of pain

Trump stuns Europe. Now what?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 11:03:25 +0000

The past week has thrown the Transatlantic relationship into turmoil, with the shocks for Europe coming one after the other. First Defense Secretary Hegseth said the US is no longer the “primary guarantor” of European security. This was followed up by President Trump’s phone call with Russia’s Vladimir Putin that seemed to sideline Ukraine and Europe. Then at the Munich Security Conference, Vice President J.D. Vance shocked attendees with a speech critiquing European democracy and effectively calling on Europeans to end the isolation of far-right parties. Steven Erlanger, the chief diplomatic correspondent for The New York Times covering Europe, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest analysis.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Donald Trump’s assault on Europe

Vance Tells Europeans to Stop Shunning Parties Deemed Extreme

After Munich, How Will Europe Handle Trump?

European Leaders Meet in Paris as U.S. Pushes Ahead With Ukraine Plan

Egypt, Cyprus sign gas export deals, boosting Eastern Mediterranean energy cooperation

Top Greek scientist says the Santorini earthquake outlook remains uncertain

Greece's role on the UN Security Council

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 08:22:22 +0000

Greece’s two-year term as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council began at the outset of 2025. Since then, Greece has been at the heart of key discussions and initiatives - from playing a role in renewing the mandate of the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus to the Security Council adopting its resolution on maritime security in the Red Sea. Lena Argiri, the DC correspondent for ERT - the Greek Public Broadcasting Company - and Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis as we break down Greece’s priorities on the Security Council, and explain what this means for the country’s global diplomatic standing.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece begins two-year term at UN Security Council

UN Security Council adopts Red Sea resolution drafted by Greece, US

Cyprus and Chevron-led group agree on updated plan for offshore field

Cyprus and Egypt to sign natural gas commercialization agreements

Greek military eyes technological leap

Greece's AI strategy

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

World leaders met in Paris earlier this week for the AI Action Summit, a global summit on artificial intelligence. While France and the EU pledged to mobilize hundreds of billions of dollars in investments in the AI sector, Greece’s Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who was also in Paris, put a spotlight on how Greece is helping to shape European developments in this critical sector. Yannis Mastrogeorgiou, the Special Secretary of Foresight in the Presidency of the Greek Government and the Coordinator of the National Advisory Committee on Artificial Intelligence, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Greece’s broader AI strategy.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece is helping to shape developments in AI, Mitsotakis says

EU to mobilise €200 billion for AI investment

Athens and Nicosia set Syria terms

Athens offers support to rebuild Syria

NATO tests new deployment model without US ahead of Ukraine war anniversary

Kosovo's election and the stakes for the Western Balkans

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This past weekend voters in Kosovo went to the polls in an election that many saw as critical for the future of its relations with the US and the EU, but also when it comes to stalled talks with Serbia to normalize ties. Prime Minister Albin Kurti, who has pushed hardline policies vis-a-vis Kosovo’s Serbs, won the general election, but his party fell short of a majority and will need to find a coalition partner to remain in power. Expert Charles Kupchan joins Thanos Davelis to break down why these elections matter not just for Kosovo, but for the Western Balkans and the broader region.

Charles Kupchan is a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) and professor of international affairs at Georgetown University in the Walsh School of Foreign Service and Department of Government. He previously served as special assistant to the president and senior director for European affairs on the staff of the National Security Council in the Obama administration.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Why Kosovo's Election Matters For The Region And The World

Kosovo PM Albin Kurti wins election amid tensions with Brussels and Washington

Serbia: Students mark 100 days since deadly canopy collapse

Trump Says Call With Putin Is Beginning of Ukraine Peace Negotiations

Trump and Putin stun Europe with peace plan for Ukraine

President-elect Tasoulas calls for national unity and social solidarity

Cyprus and the shifting dynamics on migration and regional security

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 08:05:10 +0000

For the past decade, Cyprus, the EU’s easternmost state and the closest to the Middle East, has stood as one of the EU’s frontline states when it comes to the migration crisis. The fall of the Assad regime in Syria and the conflicts in Lebanon and Gaza are now raising new questions about migration and regional security. Nicholas Ioannides, the Deputy Minister of Migration and International Protection of Cyprus, joins Thanos Davelis to break down these shifting dynamics on migration and on the security front, and explore how cooperation with partners in the region, the EU, and the US, is going to be critical in tackling these challenges.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Hundreds of Syrians drop asylum bids in Cyprus since Assad’s fall, minister says

More than 1,000 Syrians have withdrawn asylum applications in Cyprus, another 500 have returned home

Poland will not implement Migration Pact, Donald Tusk tells Ursula von der Leyen

US leadership key to Middle East stability, experts say at 6th Southeast Europe Forum

Dendias highlights Greece’s strategic role in US foreign policy

Turkish Navy continues to shadow Greek surveys north of Crete

Putting the spotlight on Greece, Cyprus and the East Med in Washington

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 11:52:08 +0000

We’re coming to you from the sidelines of the 6th Delphi Forum in Washington DC, a two-day conference organized by HALC, Kathimerini’s English Edition, and the Delphi Economic Forum today, where the spotlight is on Greece, Cyprus, Southeast Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean. This is a region at the crossroads of three continents and at the heart of exciting developments. Georgia Logothetis, HALC’s Managing Director, joins Thanos Davelis as we bring you the latest from DC.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Discussing regional developments in Washington

Greece presses France over missile sale to Turkey

Cypriot president- Turkish Cypriot leader say they’re ready for UN-led meeting to restart peace talks

Russia and Turkey's sanctions evasion scheme and the $2 billion stuck at JPMorgan

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 05:20:30 +0000

A few months after Russia’s President Putin invaded Ukraine, Russia and Turkey used a nuclear project to sidestep US sanctions. In short, Moscow slipped billions of dollars through US banks into Turkey, from which the money could bankroll Russian state initiatives. Now US prosecutors are eyeing $2 billion worth of Russian funds that are stuck at JP Morgan. Costas Paris, a senior reporter for The Wall Street Journal who wrote an exclusive on this story, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this sanctions evasion scheme involving Moscow and Ankara, and break down what questions this raises for Washington.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Moscow Has $2 Billion Stuck at JPMorgan. The U.S. Isn’t Sure What to Do With It.

Schools on 4 Greek islands will stay shut next week as earthquakes continue

Kosovo heads to election clouded by tensions with Serbia

Greece, France, and the possible sale of Meteor missiles to Turkey

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 7 Feb 2025 04:21:25 +0000

A story that's been in and out of the headlines in Greece lately has to do with France and the potential sale of Meteor missiles to Turkey. While the story is putting Greece’s relations with France and other EU partners in the spotlight, it also raises questions about European arms sales to countries like Turkey. This debate comes amid calls for Europe to spend much more on its own defence, something Prime Minister Mitsotakis weighed in on with a recent Financial Times op-ed. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis with the backstory on this potential arms sale to Ankara, while looking into the broader debate on European defense.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Paris seeks to allay Greek concerns on missile sale to Turkey

Europe must spend more on its own defence

PM mulling timing and scope of cabinet reshuffle

Turkey's growing power pollution a sign of things to come

What are Turkey's nuclear ambitions?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 6 Feb 2025 01:33:22 +0000

A provisional mining deal last year between Turkey and Niger, one of the world’s biggest uranium producers, has analysts asking if Turkey is taking quiet yet deliberate steps toward producing enriched uranium fuel, a step that could one day lead to nuclear weapons. Andrea Stricker, the deputy director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies’ (FDD) Nonproliferation and Biodefense Program and an FDD research fellow, joins Thanos Davelis to break down President Erdogan’s nuclear ambitions and the risk of a nuclear Turkey.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

FAQ: Is Turkey the Next Nuclear Proliferant State?

Turkey Eyes Niger Mining Projects Amid Competition for Uranium

Turkish corvette off Crete signals Ankara’s intent

Hundreds of Syrians drop asylum bids in Cyprus since Assad’s fall, minister says

Does the EU need to prepare for a post-America Europe?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 5 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

According to recent reports - notably in the Financial Times - the EU is debating a return to Russian gas as part of a Ukraine peace deal, with officials from Germany and Hungary endorsing the idea. This discussion is unfolding as President Trump is threatening tariffs against the EU if it doesn’t buy more American LNG, and as Europe grapples with the broader question of whether it needs to prepare for a post-America Europe. Max Bergmann, the director of the Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program and the Stuart Center in Euro-Atlantic and Northern European Studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into this energy debate and the future of the US-Europe relationship.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

EU debates return to Russian gas as part of Ukraine peace deal

Trump Needs a Plan to Get Europeans to Step Up on Defense

Syria's interim leader holds talks with key ally Turkey on his second international trip

Santorini mass exodus ongoing as tremors persist

The vision for Cyprus in 2025

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 3 Feb 2025 04:27:25 +0000

Last week President Christodoulides delivered his annual “State of the Union” address, highlighting his vision for Cyprus in 2025. The President laid out an ambitious reform agenda that will not only modernize Cyprus, but improve the brand of Cyprus both on the international stage and in the eyes of its own citizens. Irene Piki, the Deputy Minister to the President of the Republic of Cyprus, joins Thanos Davelis to break down the President’s top priorities and his vision to improve the daily lives of people in a continuously changing Cyprus.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Christodoulides unveils ambitious plans in State of the Union address

Cyprus in US Visa Waiver Program soon

Brussels vows ‘firm’ response to threatened Trump tariffs as EU braces for trade war

Opposition parties divided on PM no-confidence motion over Tempe train crash

Poll: 8 in 10 Greeks disapprove of government’s handling of Tempe case

Tulsi Gabbard's hearing and political transformation

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 02:07:33 +0000

Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democrat and President Trump’s choice to serve as the Director of National Intelligence, just went through a tense Senate confirmation hearing, facing bipartisan skepticism about her suitability for the role. Georgia Logothetis, HALC’s Managing Director, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Gabbard’s political transformation, her past criticism of Turkey’s President Erdogan and where she stands on Hellenic issues, and the broader takeaways from Gabbard’s hearing and the hearings of other key nominees for Cabinet positions.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Gabbard’s Hearing Turns Tense Over Snowden Questions

What Trump’s Nominees Revealed

Tulsi Gabbard’s road to Damascus

Gabbard faces bipartisan doubt in spy job hearing; Patel gets GOP embrace as FBI pick

Christodoulides unveils ambitious plans in State of the Union address

Greece, Cyprus, others urge EU Commission to protect elections in Europe from foreign interference

A deal to end Turkey's 40-year Kurdish conflict?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 01:31:47 +0000

Top lawmakers from the pro-Kurdish People’s Equality and Democracy Party have now met with Abdullah Ocalan, the jailed leader of the PKK, on a few occasions, generating some buzz around the potential for a deal that could bring the decades-long conflict between the Turkish state and the Kurds to an end. This is taking place amid seismic geopolitical shifts in the region, especially in Syria. Henri Barkey, an adjunct senior fellow for Middle East studies at the Council on Foreign Relations and the Cohen chair in international relations at Lehigh University, joins Thanos Davelis as we look into the latest efforts to bring an end to Turkey’s 40-year Kurdish conflict.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey, Kurds move toward peace deal as lawmakers meet with PKK leader Ocalan

What to know about the latest effort to bring an end to Turkey’s 40-year Kurdish conflict

Greece strongly objects to sale of Meteor missile to Turkey

Mitsotakis denies cover-up accusations in Tempe railway disaster

US foreign policy in Trump's era of disruption

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 00:03:30 +0000

President Trump promised to shake up how Washington does business, and he has wasted no time since his inauguration. From executive orders to a call with Denmark’s leader over Greenland, Trump seems to be making good on his pledge to disrupt American domestic and foreign policy. What will this mean for the US and its allies, particularly in Europe? Expert James Lindsay joins Thanos Davelis to look into President Trump’s disruptive foreign policy agenda and how it could impact America’s friends and allies.

James M. Lindsay is the Mary and David Boies distinguished senior fellow in U.S. foreign policy and director of Fellowship Affairs at the Council on Foreign Relations, the host of the weekly podcast The President’s Inbox. His most recent book, co-authored with Ivo H. Daalder, is The Empty Throne: America’s Abdication of Global Leadership.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Donald Trump’s Disruptive First Days

U.S. Foreign Policy on the Eve of Disruption

Europe’s leaders plot to stop Trump from taking Greenland

Albania amends Greek identity legislation

More positive signs in tourism

Trump, gas exploration, and Greece's energy strategy

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

As President Trump assumed office repeating his campaign slogan of “drill, baby, drill”, Greece announced that US energy giant Chevron is interested in exploring for oil and gas in Greek waters. The move comes as President Trump has also called on Europe to buy more US energy. John Psaropoulos joins Thanos Davelis to look into this latest development on the energy front, its timing and the message it signals to Washington, and why it serves as a reminder about Greece’s important role in the regional - and global - energy market.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece aligns with Trump on gas exploration

EU prolongs its Russia sanctions for 6 months after Hungary lifts its objections

Turkey Aims for $6 Billion Weapons Deal With Saudi Arabia

Greece, the US beyond the Beltway, and messiah politics

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 07:21:13 +0000

Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias just became the first member of Greece’s government to visit the US since President Trump’s inauguration with a trip that took him beyond the Beltway to cities like Chicago. Beyond engaging with the diaspora, Dendias’ trip put Greece in the spotlight for a wider American audience. Endy Zemenides, HALC’s Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why focusing on the US beyond Washington, DC matters, and discuss his latest piece in Kathimerini that asks whether Hellenes need to stop searching for political messiahs in the United States, particularly the oval office.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Hellenism’s futile search for an American messiah: From Carter to Trump

Dendias hails Greek-Jewish ties, highlights strategic alliances with Israel and US

A Conversation with Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias

Archbishop Anastasios of Albania dies

Thousands protest over deadly train crash in Greece

Greece achieves global milestone in reducing antisemitism

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 05:39:34 +0000

Recent findings from the Anti-Defamation League’s (ADL) Global 100 study reveal that while global antisemitism has surged across the world over the last decade, Greece is bucking this trend. In fact, it recorded the largest decrease in antisemitic attitudes globally, with a 19-point drop. Aykan Erdemir, the Senior Director for Global Research and Diplomatic Affairs at the ADL, joins Thanos Davelis to break down the key takeaways from the ADL’s study, looking at this global trend of rising antisemitism, and contrasting it to the progress Greece has made over the last decade.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece makes strides in global fight against antisemitism, study finds

US air force looks to upgrade Cyprus airbase as humanitarian staging post for the Middle East

Ionian, Aegean marine parks plan pushed to mid-2025

Cyprus' CYCLOPS on the front line of US and European security

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Opening its doors in 2022, the Cyprus Center for Land, Open-seas, and Port Security, otherwise known as CYCLOPS, is now not only on the front line of US and European security, but is a critical piece of the puzzle when it comes to relations between Washington and Nicosia. Michael Rubin, the director of policy analysis at the Middle East Forum and a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the important role CYCLOPS and Cyprus are playing in the region, and to break down why this critical training center is the perfect partnership for the US in the Trump era.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Cyprus’ CYCLOPS Is the Perfect Partnership for the Trump Age

The U.S. Won’t Defeat China if Ambassadors Fail Upwards

November a record-breaking month for Greek tourism

Turkey, Kurds move toward peace deal as lawmakers meet with PKK leader Ocalan

Trump's foreign policy vision and the view from Capitol Hill

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 03:50:06 +0000

As President Trump outlined his “America first” foreign policy vision in his inaugural address, other key players on the foreign policy chess board in Washington are also moving into place, from Secretary of State Marco Rubio taking over the State Department to new leaders in Congress. Laura Kelly, the foreign policy reporter for The Hill, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the view from Washington, DC and Capitol Hill as President Trump looks to begin implementing his foreign policy vision, and explore what to expect from these other players, including Congress.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Scores of career State Dept. diplomats resign before Trump’s inauguration

Rubio unanimously confirmed as secretary of State, becoming Trump’s first Cabinet official

Trump signs executive order pausing foreign assistance for 3 months

Trump's pick for U.N. ambassador is Elise Stefanik. Here's what to know

Europe must seek ‘mutually beneficial solutions’ post-Trump, Mitsotakis says

As defence ties strengthen, US assesses Cyprus base

A new political battleground? Mitsotakis' pick for president, New Democracy, and PASOK

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 05:03:22 +0000

Prime Minister Mitsotakis announced his pick for President of Greece last week, selecting New Democracy veteran Kostas Tasoulas. The decision is not only indicative of the direction Mitsotakis is looking to move in 2025, but it also sets the stage for a new political battleground between New Democracy and PASOK. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, joins Thanos Davelis to help us read between the lines, breaking down what’s at stake for the government and PASOK, while looking at broader global trends - from potential tariffs to Ukraine - and how they could impact Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Presidential vote creates new battleground as ND and PASOK renew hostilities

As political landscape stabilizes, PASOK fears it may have hit its ceiling

Poll gives New Democracy 12-point lead

Christodoulides, Tatar fail to reach deal on new crossing points

Chevron expresses interest in Greek energy exploration

Is Erdogan really the "big winner" in Syria?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 20 Jan 2025 01:52:00 +0000

Since the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, many have repeated the analysis that Turkey is “the winner” in Syria. Is this the case, however? Has Turkey really won anything yet? Developments on the ground indicate that this may not be the case. Steven Cook, the Eni Enrico Mattei senior fellow for Middle East and Africa studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why it might still be too early to celebrate an Erdogan win in Syria.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey Hasn’t Won Anything Yet in Syria

US officials to head to Cyprus to discuss defense upgrades, president says

‘Serving as US Ambassador to Greece has been the honor of a lifetime,’ Tsunis says

Cyprus joins three critical US defense programs

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In a move heralded as historic, President Joe Biden issued a presidential determination this week officially including Cyprus in three critical US defense programs. Cyprus hailed the decision allowing military sales, including arms, to the island as a milestone affirming the country’s role as a pillar of stability in the Eastern Mediterranean. Lena Argiri, the DC correspondent for ERT - the Greek Public Broadcasting Company - and Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to look at this major development in US-Cyprus ties that paves the way for the incoming Trump administration to take this relationship to new heights.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Cyprus included in three critical US defense programs

Greece has tapped 18 bln euros from EU’s Recovery Fund

PM marks shift, nominates House speaker as next president

Elon Musk and America's allies

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

As we approach inauguration day, one of President-elect Donald Trump’s closest allies, Elon Musk, has been using his social media platform X to openly support political parties like the far-right AfD in Germany ahead of the country’s election, or has called for an end to Sir Keir Starmer’s Labour government in the UK. His posts are raising questions among key US allies, with many asking whether Musk is speaking for Trump. Ed Luce, the US national editor and columnist at the Financial Times, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Musk’s posts and the wider ramifications for America’s allies in Europe.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Musk’s war on America’s allies

A New Age of American Interference in Europe

Cyprus included in three critical US defense programs

Greece makes strides in global fight against antisemitism, study finds

Greece engages with the Middle East

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 00:08:09 +0000

Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ visit to Saudi Arabia this week has put a spotlight on Greece’s strategy in the Middle East, coming about a week after a trilateral summit in Cairo with Egypt’s President Sisi and Cyprus’ President Christodoulides, and a month after a visit to Lebanon. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Greece’s engagement with the broader Middle East, from key players like Saudi Arabia and Egypt, to countries like Lebanon that are looking to rebuild.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Athens, Riyadh strengthen strategic ties

Greece, Egypt and Cyprus align on policy

Greek interest in Middle East deepening

Turkey’s Bahceli rehashes claims about Greece’s Dodecanese islands

Foreign Ministry: ‘Dodecanese islands status governed by the 1947 Paris Peace Treaty’

Mitsotakis calls on European Commission to move faster to reduce energy prices

Greece's presidency and Mitsotakis' dilemma

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

All eyes are on Prime Minister Mitsotakis as Greeks wait to hear who he plans to nominate as Greece’s next president. While the position is a largely ceremonial one, who is selected will send a message across the political spectrum, and will likely set the tone for the remainder of Mitsotakis’ term as he will have to decide whether to appease his party’s base or pick a candidate with a broader appeal. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this story, breaking down the dilemma facing Mitsotakis and the message it sends about Greek politics.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

All eyes on Greece’s presidential nomination

Cyprus could join Schengen this year, president says

EU bans ‘Turkaegean’ slogan following Greece’s appeal

It's now or never: The renewed push to find the missing in Cyprus

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 02:45:57 +0000

As we approach the 51st dark anniversary of Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus this year, there is a renewed push to locate and identify the remains of 951 missing Greek and Turkish Cypriots. To this day, the search continues for those lost during periods of inter-communal violence or - the large part - during Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus in 1974. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition and Politico’s Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this issue, which remains an open wound for all Cypriots.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

‘Oblivion cannot always be the choice’

Greece’s tourism hits record highs, offering optimism for 2025

Turkey’s Kurdish leaders meet jailed politician as the two sides inch toward peace

A chance to reimagine Lebanon's future?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Lebanon has brought an end to a two year power vacuum with the election of Joseph Aoun, the country's army chief, as president. His candidacy was backed by several key players, including the US, France and Saudi Arabia. Together with the collapse of Assad in Syria and a weakened Hezbollah, there are many who hope this election could serve as the necessary spark to rebuild the war-torn Eastern Mediterranean country. Sean Mathews, a journalist for the Middle East Eye covering the Middle East, North Africa and the Balkans, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why this election is so important, and what challenges lie ahead for Lebanon and its new president.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Army chief elected Lebanon's president after years of deadlock

It’s time for Lebanon’s leaders to take responsibility for the country’s future

US dangles Saudi Arabia's cash to push candidate for Lebanon's presidency

Meloni hails ‘excellent’ Italy-Greece relations, announces February conference

Trump, Meloni and Greece’s moves

Kurdish-led SDF says civilians killed as Turkey strikes Syrian dam

Is Erdogan preparing to invade Syria?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 9 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

While the world is waiting for President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration this month, Turkey’s President Erdogan is saber rattling, making it clear that he intends to target the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) who have been critical in the fight against ISIS. Sinan Ciddi, a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and an expert on Turkish politics, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Erdogan’s ambitions in Syria, what an attack on the SDF would mean for the anti-ISIS coalition, and what the dangers are if Washington fails to act.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey Is Preparing to Invade Syria, Then Israel?

Trump can’t leave Syria to others

Cairo trilateral summit focuses on regional developments, energy and migration

New push to fight tax evasion, smuggling

The new Congress, inauguration, and Trump's world view

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 8 Jan 2025 04:04:44 +0000

As we approach President-elect Trump’s inauguration, many are trying to discern how both the incoming Trump administration and the new Congress that was just sworn in will deal with key foreign policy questions that will undoubtedly impact Greece and Cyprus. Endy Zemenides, HALC’s Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what to expect from the new Congress on the East Med, what to look out for as President-elect Trump looks to get his cabinet confirmed, and more.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The Next Congress

Trump Imagines New Sphere of U.S. Influence Stretching from Panama to Greenland

The Political Logic of Trump’s International Threats

Europe’s power price divide hits southeastern economies

Turkey’s naval build-up has Hellenic Navy considering the purchase of more ships

Greece and the new era of uncertainty in 2025

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 7 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

2024 was a tumultuous year, with elections in the US and Europe setting the stage for major changes, and ushering in a new era of uncertainty - especially in Europe. Amid these developments, Greece saw a new opposition emerge in PASOK and its economy once again was on The Economist’s list of top performers of 2024. Niko Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author, joins Thanos Davelis to explore what these global political shifts could mean for Athens, whether Greece’s economy can keep up the momentum through 2025, and what other trends we should keep an eye on this year.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

2025 and the need for political solutions

Which economy did best in 2024?

New Democracy aiming to regain lost ground and keep rivals contained in 2025

Cairo tripartite summit spotlights Syria turmoil

Turkey says Kurdish-led armed groups in Syria will be ‘eliminated’

Costas Simitis' legacy and his role in shaping modern Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 6 Jan 2025 03:00:00 +0000

The death of former Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis at the age of 88 has put a spotlight on his tenure (1996-2004), with many highlighting his role in shaping today’s Greece. Key highlights include bringing Greece into the Eurozone, playing a key role in Cyprus’s quest for EU membership, establishing a framework for dialogue with Turkey, and securing the 2004 Athens Olympics. John Psaropoulos joins Thanos Davelis to look back at Simitis’ legacy and impact on Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Costas Simitis, 2-Time Prime Minister of Greece, Dies at 88

Tributes paid after former Greek PM Costas Simitis dies aged 88

International media reflect on Costas Simitis’ legacy as Greece’s modernizer

Greece begins UNSC tenure, eyes global impact

Turkey plans ‘Blue Homeland’ exercise

Cyprus puts the spotlight on religious freedom and protecting Christians and other Middle East minorities

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 22:30:00 +0000

Cyprus is once again making headline news as Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides becomes the first leader in the region to appoint a special representative - Ambassador Thessalia Salina Shambos - for religious freedoms and the protection of minorities in the Middle East. The move, welcomed in Washington, comes as new concerns about religious and ethnic minorities are emerging in the wake of war and upheaval in Syria and the region. Matthew Boyle, the Washington Bureau Chief for Breitbart News Network who interviewed President Christodoulides about this move, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why this is such a significant story.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Cyprus President Appoints ‘Special Representative’ for Religious Freedoms to Protect Christians, Other Minorities in Middle East

US welcomes Cyprus’ move on Christian minorities in Middle East

Leadership changes do not affect Greek-US relations

Syria: Germany cautions Turkey against wider Kurdish fight

Greece and Cyprus on alert over possible Turkey-Syria EEZ deal

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 06:33:58 +0000

Athens and Nicosia are putting the spotlight on reports that Turkey and Syria could potentially reach a deal to delimit their maritime zones in a way that would promote Turkey’s “Blue Homeland” doctrine, and disregard the rights of neighboring states like Cyprus. Such a move would raise the specter of legal and political tensions reminiscent of the illegal Turkey-Libya memorandum. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what such a deal between Ankara and Damascus could mean for the region, and what steps Athens and Nicosia are taking to pre-empt it.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Athens and Nicosia on alert over possible Turkey-Syria EEZ delimitation deal

Athens, Nicosia aim to pre-empt Turkey in Syria

Cyprus can help rid Syria of chemical weapons and search for its missing, Cypriot top diplomat says

Is Turkey outplaying Egypt and the US in the Horn of Africa?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 23:30:00 +0000

For many, it seems Turkey’s Erdogan is coming out as the big winner in Syria. But looking beyond the Middle East, it seems Ankara is also emerging as a winner in another arena - in the Horn of Africa. Its recent role in mediating a deal between Ethiopia and Somalia demonstrates Ankara’s growing assertiveness on the world stage, and is a clear message to Egypt and even Washington. Mariam Wahba, a research analyst at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, joins Thanos Davelis to break down whether Turkey has outplayed Egypt and the US in the Horn of Africa.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

How Turkey Outplayed Egypt and the U.S. In The Horn Of Africa

Van Hollen, Graham threaten sanctions on Turkey to achieve ceasefire with Syrian Kurdish allies

Mitsotakis highlights need for common European defense

Trump's chance to reshape the Middle East and the opportunities for Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 04:20:52 +0000

The upheavals across the Middle East over the past year and a half - with the collapse of Assad’s regime in Syria taking center stage now - mean that the incoming Trump administration has a new chance to reshape the region. This raises important questions for Greece, which sits at the crossroads between Europe and the Middle East, and is at the heart of a number of regional initiatives. Endy Zemenides, HALC’s Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the opportunities for President-elect Trump and for Greece in the new Middle East that is emerging.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Trump and the remaking of the modern Middle East

A Cease-Fire Is Extended in a Disputed City in Northern Syria

Cyprus and EU condemn Turkey’s plans for military action in Syria

What's at stake for Syria's minorities in the wake of Assad's fall?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 23:30:00 +0000

While the collapse of the Assad regime was celebrated across Syria, the uncertainty about what comes next has many holding their breath. This is especially true for the country’s minorities, particularly its dwindling Christian community. As Syria’s Christians wait to see what will emerge, Syria’s Kurds, another key minority in the country, are also under threat. Nadine Maenza joins Thanos Davelis to look at what’s at stake for religious and ethnic minorities in Syria in the wake of Assad’s fall.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Can Syria’s dwindling Christian community survive under jihadi rebel rule?

Turkey-backed Syrian factions end US-mediated ceasefire with Kurdish-led SDF

Two Russian oil tankers wrecked in Black Sea

Italy's Meloni warns EU court against blocking Albania migrant relocations

Greece's new budget and the state of the economy heading into 2025

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 23:30:00 +0000

Greece’s parliament has just approved the 2025 budget, with Prime Minister Mitsotakis highlighting measures designed to help mostly lower income households in the face of rising costs. This also includes measures that relate to Greece’s banking sector which have received a lot of media attention. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, a political and economic analysis site that focuses on Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what the government has put forward, look at the political dimension of this budget, and explore the key strengths and weaknesses of Greece’s economy as we head into 2025.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Parliament OKs 2025 budget

Greece to scrap some bank fees for retail customers, parliament approves budget

Turkey Says Syria’s New Rulers Agree to Abolish Kurdish Forces

Syria's Kurds fearful of the future after Islamist rebels seized power

Why America’s Kurdish Allies Are Under Threat in a New Syria

Mitsotakis highlights need to uphold ceasefire during Lebanon visit

Greek PM visits Lebanon aiming to strengthen diplomatic ties, support stability

Assad's fall, Syrian refugees, and Europe's migration debate

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 01:27:10 +0000

The fall of the Assad regime has put the migration issue back in the limelight in Europe, with a number of European countries, including Greece, announcing they were freezing asylum applications for Syrians or suggesting it’s time they prepare to return home. Many are pointing out that these reactions seem premature, however, as Syria’s future remains uncertain, and many Syrian refugees have put down roots in their new countries. Eleni Varvitsioti, the correspondent for Greece and Cyprus at the Financial Times, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Europe’s reaction to Assad’s fall and its impact on the continent’s ongoing migration debate.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

‘We need time’: Syrians in Europe resist calls to return home

Several EU nations and the UK pause asylum claims from Syrians

Syrian refugees in Europe are not about to flock home

Mitsotakis to visit Lebanon on Monday

Greece to buy artillery systems from Israel and drones from US, officials say

Greece's "ghost" towns and the demographic challenge

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 10:03:40 +0000

In Greece abandoned "ghost" towns and villages scattered across the countryside provide a glimpse into the country’s broader demographic challenge, which Prime Minister Mitsotakis has warned is "existential". The government is now working to reverse worrying trends that could leave Greece’s population older and smaller as it looks to also continue rebuilding the economy following the financial crisis. Karen Gilchrist, a London based CNBC correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this phenomenon of “ghost" towns in Greece’s countryside and the broader demographic challenges facing Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece's ghost towns offer a glimpse of a country struggling with 'existential' population collapse

Nicosia hails US green light for military training as ‘strategic milestone’

Blinken meets Erdogan as forces backed by US, Turkey clash in Syria

Climate change, over-tourism, and the water crisis on Greece's islands

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 10:47:01 +0000

Record breaking heat-waves, limited rainfall, and a spike in tourism have many in Greece concerned about the availability of water. This is something we’ve heard experts talk about with regards to Athens. In Greece’s Cycladic islands, however, which see millions of visitors every summer, this problem seems even more pronounced. Alexia Kalaitzi, an award-winning journalist and features reporter for Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what the mounting water crisis means for Greece and popular islands like Tinos.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Wells run dry as Tinos faces mounting water crisis

Boosting Cyprus’ defense is key given proximity to war-wracked Mideast, defense minister says

Trump picks ambassadors to Greece and Turkey

Tom Barrack, Trump's pick for Turkey ambassador, is good news for Erdogan

Is Turkey's Erdogan the big winner amid the Syria crisis?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 10:27:22 +0000

With the speed at which developments in Syria are unfolding after the fall of the Assad regime, dynamics in the country and the region are in flux. One question many are asking, however, is whether a decade or so of backing elements of Syria’s armed opposition is now about to pay off for Turkey and President Erdogan. Henri Barkey, an adjunct senior fellow for Middle East studies at the Council on Foreign Relations and the Cohen chair in international relations at Lehigh University, joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into this question, look at Turkey’s role in Syria, and break down what’s at stake for Syria's Kurds, refugees, and for the United States.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

What Role Is Turkey Playing in Syria’s Civil War?

Erdogan Gets His ‘Leader of the Muslim World’ Moment

Turkey: will Erdoğan emerge as the big winner of the Syria crisis?

Britain will provide intel to Cyprus to help fight Russia’s sanctions evasion

Cyprus and the US double down on a joint effort to combat financial crimes with more training

Trump nominates Kimberly Guilfoyle to be the new US Ambassador to Greece

Amid Rumors of a Breakup, Kimberly Guilfoyle Is Appointed Ambassador to Greece

Cyprus, NATO, and the 'gentleman's agreement' of 1959

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 08:49:24 +0000

The news that Cyprus is eyeing a future in NATO has made headlines recently, with many arguing such a step could be transformative for Cyprus and the region. The story of Cyprus and NATO, however, is not new, but goes back to the creation of an independent Cyprus and a 1959 "gentleman's agreement". Evanthis Hatzivassiliou, a professor at the Department of History and Archaeology of the University of Athens, joins Thanos Davelis to look back at this history and break down what lessons we can take from it as Cyprus explores new ways to integrate with the transatlantic alliance.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Cyprus, NATO and the old mistakes

Cyprus power link tangled in Gordian knot

European countries put Syrian asylum bids on hold after Assad's fall

Greece, Turkey, the Aegean, and Trump

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 9 Dec 2024 11:09:14 +0000

With the incoming Trump administration preparing to take office in over a month, countries like Greece and Turkey are trying to work out what this will mean for the region and their ties to Washington. Ryan Gingeras, a professor in the Department of National Security Affairs at the Naval Postgraduate School and an expert on Turkish, Balkan, and Middle East history, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the different reactions from Greece and Turkey to Donald Trump’s election, break down what we can expect to see when it comes to US relations with both countries, and what this could mean for the Aegean.

The views expressed in this interview do not reflect the views of the US government.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey, Greece, and Trump

What just happened in Syria?

With Assad Gone, a Brutal Dictatorship Ends. But the New Risks Are Huge.

Greece hails downfall of Assad regime, calls for democratic transition, refugees’ return home

With Syria in Flux, Turkish Forces Attack U.S.-Backed Forces

Mitsotakis' expected Beirut visit and the challenges facing Lebanon

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 6 Dec 2024 10:57:16 +0000

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is expected to visit Lebanon in the coming days, an important diplomatic move that underscores Greece’s commitment to fostering stability and security in the region. It would also make Mitsotakis the first EU leader - as Kathimerini notes - to visit Lebanon since a ceasefire was reached between Israel and Hezbollah. Steven Howard, the Director of Policy and Outreach at the American Task Force on Lebanon (ATFL), joins Thanos Davelis ahead of this visit to look at the current situation on the ground in Lebanon, what to expect from the new US administration here, and how Greece and Cyprus can be helpful as we consider Lebanon’s future.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Mitsotakis’ Beirut visit signals intent

PM Mitsotakis postpones Lebanon visit due to aircraft malfunction

Trump picks Massad Boulos to serve as adviser on Arab, Middle Eastern affairs

Exclusive: Blinken wants to give successor Rubio the 'strongest hand' possible

Christodoulides, Trump reaffirm commitment for strengthened Cyprus-US ties

New SYRIZA leader aims for party overhaul

Has the Greek-Turkish dialogue stalled?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 5 Dec 2024 10:52:41 +0000

While Greece and Turkey’s foreign ministers are working to lay the groundwork for a key summit between Prime Minister Mitsotakis and President Erdogan early next year, there are growing concerns that progress in resolving differences in the Aegean Sea is proving all but impossible. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition, joins Thanos Davelis for a look at the ongoing Greek-Turkish dialogue, why achieving real progress in resolving differences remains elusive, and what to expect amid efforts to maintain the relative calm we’ve seen in the Aegean.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece-Turkey dialogue is alive, but barely

Prime ministerial intentions and Greek-Turkish ties

Athens, Ankara agree to disagree but keep talking

Cyprus’ new air defense system launched, Greece to follow

Mitsotakis holds first meeting with Androulakis as main opposition leader

Political consensus hidden in legislative nuances

Merkel's memoirs: The Greek financial crisis, migration, and her legacy

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 4 Dec 2024 10:14:15 +0000

Ex-German chancellor Angela Merkel’s memoir was recently released, and many are racing to see what she has chosen to reveal about key moments and players from Europe’s recent past - from the financial crisis to migration and the pandemic. Naturally, Greece is at the heart of a number of these developments. Xenia Kounalaki, a journalist, columnist, and foreign editor at Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis for a deep dive into Merkel’s revelations, including her handling of the Greek financial crisis and the migration crisis, her encounters with Greece’s leaders, and more.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Η Μέρκελ θυμάται: Η σιωπή του ΓΑΠ και το χαμόγελο του Τσίπρα

Freedom by Angela Merkel review – her lips are sealed

Merkel looks back on Greek crisis in new memoirs

Greece bullish on Parthenon Marbles after Mitsotakis-Starmer meeting

Rebel offensive boosts Turkey’s influence in Syria

What Syria's new cycle of violence and instability means for the region

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 3 Dec 2024 08:54:52 +0000

In a lightning offensive Syrian rebels seized Aleppo and are threatening other regime-held territories in the country. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s closest allies, Russia and Iran, pledged unconditional support to his government on Monday, while a number of other countries invested in Syria - including Turkey, Israel and the US - are watching developments closely. Steven Cook, the Eni Enrico Mattei senior fellow for Middle East and Africa studies at the Council on Foreign Relations and author of the recent book The End of Ambition: America’s Past, Present, and Future in the Middle East, joins Thanos Davelis to look at this new cycle of violence and instability and break down what it means for the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

What Syria’s Revived Civil War Means for the Region

Syria's rebel offensive is astonishing - but don't write off Assad

Greek Current Cafe featuring Steven Cook, Michael Rubin, Jonathan Schanzer, and Endy Zemenides

Foreign workers urgently needed

Talks over return of Parthenon marbles to Athens are ‘well advanced’

Greece's new political landscape

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 10:22:41 +0000

Developments over the past few months in Greece have seen SYRIZA lose its position as the main opposition in parliament to PASOK in the wake of leadership elections in both parties, the creation of a new political party on the left, and the ouster of a former prime minister from New Democracy. At the same time, the ripple effects of the US election are also being felt in Greek politics - as in the rest of Europe. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition and Politico’s Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what to expect in this new political landscape.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Assessing Greece’s new political landscape

Dominoes waiting for a push

Greece to train Ukrainian pilots

Cyprus offers to assist with Lebanon ceasefire

Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire begins after year of conflict

A plan to integrate Cyprus into NATO

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 09:24:53 +0000

The launch of a strategic dialogue between Cyprus and the US last month was quickly followed up by another historic development: President Christodoulides’ visit to the White House. With US-Cyprus ties deepening at a rapid pace, this was a chance for Christodoulides to present his strategic vision for Cyprus, including, as reports indicate, the potential future integration of Cyprus into NATO. Lena Argiri, the Washington, DC correspondent for ERT - the Greek Public Broadcasting Company - and Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this plan to institutionalize Cyprus’ relationship with NATO, a potentially transformative opportunity for both Cyprus and the whole region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Nicosia keeping its eye on NATO prize

EU prolongs Turkey oil-related sanctions

2025 budget to support incomes against inflation, PM says

Turkey escalates tensions as Greece and Cyprus look to link their grids

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 10:46:26 +0000

Earlier this month we saw a mini crisis break out in the southern Aegean as Turkey deployed four frigates near the Greek islands of Kasos and Karpathos thinking that an Italian ship - which had been at the center of a 40-hour crisis last July - was in the area conducting research for the future deployment of underwater cables linking Greece and Cyprus. While this was ultimately a misunderstanding, it raises questions about relations between Greece and Turkey and the future of vital projects like the Great Sea Interconnector. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest analysis.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey deploys warships over misunderstanding

Ankara irked by European maritime map

Το κόστος των καθυστερήσεων για τη διασύνδεση Ελλάδας – Κύπρου

Famellos elected SYRIZA leader

Ancient meets modern as a new subway in Greece showcases archaeological treasures

Greece’s economic turnaround, debt reduction, and the cost of living crisis

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 04:23:07 +0000

This week Greece saw workers in the public and the private sector go on strike, demanding better wages in the face of rising costs across the board. This comes despite Greece’s economic success story, whether it's achieving investment grade or outperforming its Eurozone partners, and as the government announced it is set to make another early repayment of €5 billion of bailout-era loans. Nikos Vettas, the general director of the Foundation for Economic and Industrial Research (IOBE) and a professor at the Athens University of Economics and Business, joins Thanos Davelis to look into the state of the economy - from the cost of living crisis and wages to debt reduction.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Thousands in Greece strike to protest soaring living costs

Greece to repay chunk of bailout debt early

New budget includes support measures over 1 bln euros

PASOK becomes main opposition after leftist party collapse

Ankara irked by European maritime map

The Polytechnic uprising, the diaspora, and the fight to restore democracy in Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 10:14:06 +0000

On November 17th Greeks commemorated the 51st anniversary of the Polytechnic uprising - a seminal moment that effectively delivered the first real blow to the military dictatorship, or the junta, that was ruling Greece. While the story of the uprising itself is well known, the Greek diaspora around the world also played an important role in the fight against the junta. Alexander Kitroeff, a professor of history with an expertise on the Greek diaspora experience, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the Polytechnic uprising and the diaspora’s key role in the broader story of restoring democracy to Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The Athens Polytechnic uprising, a milestone of peaceful resistance not to be forgotten

Amazon invests in three wind farms in Greece

Open Doors 2024: Greece Receives Record Number of U.S. Students

US warns Turkey about Hamas

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 11:07:45 +0000

On Monday the US warned Turkey against hosting Hamas leadership after reports emerged that some Hamas leaders had moved to Turkey from Qatar, with State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller saying Washington will make it clear to Ankara that there can be no more business as usual with Hamas. Sinan Ciddi, a non-resident senior fellow at FDD and an expert on Turkish politics, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this latest warning from Washington, and look at how the Hamas issue is likely to impact US-Turkey ties as the Trump administration prepares to take over in January.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

US warns Turkey against hosting Hamas leaders

Turkey Shouldn’t Celebrate a Donald Trump Victory Just Yet

Greece faces general strike as workers protest cost of living squeeze

Ships docked, transport services disrupted as Greeks walk out for higher pay

Greece to repay chunk of bailout debt early

Mitsotakis looks ahead after bold decision to expel Samaras

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 11:04:34 +0000

This weekend Prime Minister Mitsotakis took a bold and risky move to expel former prime minister and lawmaker Antonis Samaras from New Democracy. The story, and its potential impact on the government, is the main issue dominating the headlines in Greece over the past few days. Wolfango Piccoli, the co-founder of the risk analysis company Teneo, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this latest development and break down what it means for Greece’s government, New Democracy, and its broader political landscape.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

PM ensures stability post-Samaras

Ruling party tension boils over as Mitsotakis ousts ex-PM and right wing figurehead Samaras

Turkey plans Aegean oil research

Greece Extends Drills Hampering Transfer of Russian Oil Cargoes

Is Europe ready for Trump 2.0?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 12:03:35 +0000

In 2016 European leaders treated Trump’s win as an aberration, something to ride out. Eight years later, European leaders are now trying to gauge what a second Trump presidency will mean for the continent. While Jean Monnet famously said “Europe will be forged in crisis,” the political turmoil in Germany and France, Europe’s two largest economies, has many asking if Europe is up for the challenge. Expert Max Bergmann joins Thanos Davelis to break down what European leaders should expect from the incoming Trump administration, and whether the continent is ready to meet the challenges ahead.

Max Bergmann is the director of the Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program and the Stuart Center in Euro-Atlantic and Northern European Studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS).

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The Trump challenge for Europe

New Democracy rift and SYRIZA polls in the spotlight

Gov’t dismisses stability concerns after Samaras expulsion; focus shifts to Karamanlis

Turkey expands grip in Libya

Trump's national security team and the East Med

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 09:07:39 +0000

This week President-elect Donald Trump unveiled his picks for a number of positions that will have a direct impact on US diplomacy and national security - including his nominations of Senator Marco Rubio for Secretary of State and Representative Michael Waltz for National Security Adviser. As Trump’s national security team takes shape, Jonathan Schanzer, the senior vice president for research at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, and Endy Zemenides, Executive Director of HALC, join Thanos Davelis to break down what message these nominations send about the foreign policy priorities of a second Trump administration, especially when looking at the Eastern Mediterranean.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

President-elect Trump nominates Marco Rubio for secretary of state

National security picks signal direction of Trump’s foreign policy plans

Trump builds out national security team with picks of Hegseth for Pentagon, Noem for DHS

Tulsi Gabbard Questioned U.S. Intelligence. Now She Is Trump’s Pick for Top Intelligence Role.

Army reboot: Smaller, smarter, stronger

Turkey deploys warships over misunderstanding

SYRIZA's political future hanging in the balance

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 10:34:34 +0000

This past weekend Stefanos Kasselakis announced the formation of a new political movement as SYRIZA prepares for a key leadership race. The decision not only throws the party into further turmoil, but leaves it weaker than ever and on the verge of being replaced as Greece’s main opposition party. Nikos Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss Stefanos Kasselakis’ decision to found a new party, and look at what this latest split within SYRIZA means for its political future and for Greece’s fractured left.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

SYRIZA’s fate hanging in the balance

Marco Rubio Is Trump’s Pick for Secretary of State

Rubio pick signals a Trump China policy that could go beyond tariffs

Congressman Gus Bilirakis hails Trump announcement of Marco Rubio as foreign affairs chief

Are Turkey's Erdogan and his nationalist ally about to fall out over Kurds?

Greece and Turkey vow to maintain dialogue despite key disagreements

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 10:50:57 +0000

Last Friday Greece and Turkey’s foreign ministers held a much anticipated meeting in Athens to see if there is a way forward on resolving differences between the two countries, primarily in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean. While there were no major breakthroughs last week, continued talks between the two countries on critical issues are seen as important - especially when it comes to managing tensions. Constantinos Filis, the director of the Institute of Global Affairs and a professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this latest meeting in Athens and break down what to look out for as talks progress.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Differences persist in Athens, Ankara talks

Greek-Turkish talks resume in December

Plan to reshape armed forces for the future

UN plans key Cyprus meeting

Greece's ambitious climate goals and the green transition

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 10:42:27 +0000

Last month Greece unveiled a new and ambitious National Energy and Climate Plan that will almost eliminate electricity sector emissions by 2030. While these steps are massively important for the environment, they are also seen as an opportunity to unshackle Greece’s economy and create thousands of jobs. John Psaropoulos joins Thanos Davelis with an inside look into Greece’s ambitious climate goals, and breaks down how they can impact both the economy and Greece’s standing in the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece races to clean energy with a new climate plan (and it could go even faster)

Mitsotakis invites Trump to visit Greece

Trump Expected to Name Marco Rubio as Secretary of State

Italian court rejects Meloni’s migrant camps in Albania for a second time

Italy’s plan to screen migrants in Albania hits another snag with 2nd group returning to Italy

Mitsotakis puts reducing taxes front and center

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 10:07:31 +0000

Over the past weeks we’ve seen Prime Minister Mitsotakis and his government put tax cuts and wages front and center, something made possible as a result of increased state revenue from economic growth, GDP gains, debt reduction, and a crackdown on tax evasion. Yiannis Mouzakis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, a political and economic analysis site that focuses on Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to look at these proposed tax cuts, the broader picture of the Greek economy, and the political dimension of this discussion.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

PM puts tax cuts front and centre in bid to win back voters

Overreliance on indirect taxes

Increasing revenues pave way for tax cuts

Mitsotakis pledges tax relief for households and businesses

Differences persist in Athens, Ankara talks

Kasselakis split sparks political realignment

SYRIZA MP Tzakri signals defection to Kasselakis’ new party

Trump, Erdogan, and what to expect in US-Turkey ties

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 8 Nov 2024 10:16:31 +0000

The US election is now behind us and President-elect Donald Trump is set to return to the White House in January. As the congratulatory messages streamed in from around the world, one of the world leaders who was quick to call Trump was President Erdogan. Turkey expert Nicholas Danforth, a Senior Non-Resident Fellow at the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP) and Editor at War on the Rocks, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what the election of Donald Trump - well known for his relationship with Erdogan in his first term - could mean for US-Turkey relations.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Sustainable estrangement: Embracing the new normal in US-Turkish relations

Turkey's Erdogan, Trump discuss improving Turkey-US cooperation

Regional leaders discuss international developments

Fidan arrives in Athens for pivotal talks

Greece cites new trust of Turkey as the neighbors seek to ease tensions

Thessaloniki's long overdue Holocaust museum and its importance for the city and Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 7 Nov 2024 11:53:22 +0000

At the end of last month Germany’s President Frank-Walter Steinmeier visited the site of the Holocaust museum that is being built in the northern Greek city of Thessaloniki, a city that was home to a thriving and important Jewish community numbering in the tens of thousands before World War II. The museum has been years in the making, and, as The Guardian reported recently, is set to open in 2026. Leon Saltiel joins Thanos Davelis to break down what this means for the Jewish community of the city and of Greece, why it has taken so long, and what role this museum can play in combating worrying trends across Europe of anti-semitism, Holocaust denial, and the rise of the far-right.

Leon Saltiel is a historian from Thessaloniki and author of the award winning book The Holocaust in Thessaloniki. He also serves as Director of Diplomacy, Representative at UN Geneva and UNESCO, and Coordinator on Countering Antisemitism for the World Jewish Congress.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Eighty years after thousands of Greek Jews were murdered, Thessaloniki’s Holocaust museum is finally set to open

Germany’s president visits the site of a Holocaust museum being built in Greece

As he heads to Athens, Turkish FM speaks of ‘positive momentum’ but also ‘comprehensive solutions’

Scholz sets stage for German snap election as government collapses

Watching the US elections from Europe

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 6 Nov 2024 06:37:23 +0000

Europe has closely watched the US presidential election over the past months, anxiously waiting to see who will be elected and what America will emerge after the elections. Yannis Palaiologos, a journalist at large with Kathimerini, joined Thanos Davelis on Tuesday as the polls were still open in the US to break down what it has been like watching - and covering - this high stakes US election from Europe, how the American experiment with democracy has influenced him and others across Europe, and whether Europe is ready to deal with the new America that is taking shape.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Election Live Updates: NYTimes

Greece braces for US election outcome

Election reverberations felt in Greece

Erdogan ally floats Turkey constitutional amendment to let him extend his tenure

SYRIZA in turmoil ahead of its leadership race

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 5 Nov 2024 10:52:21 +0000

While all eyes are on the US elections today, in Greece it seems that there is a permanent state of campaigning. After the PASOK elections a few weeks ago, SYRIZA is now preparing for its own leadership elections this month. In the meantime, internal drama in New Democracy and PASOK’s improved poll numbers have caught the media’s attention as well. Panos Koliastasis, adjunct lecturer in politics at the Hellenic Open University and author of the book Permanent campaigning in Greece in times of crisis, joins Thanos Davelis to look at these developments and what message they send about Greece’s political scene.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Rival factions claim victory in SYRIZA delegate elections ahead of pivotal party congress

ND and SYRIZA contend with internal strife as PASOK advances

ND’s strategy against PASOK: Divide and conquer

Eighty years after thousands of Greek Jews were murdered, Thessaloniki’s Holocaust museum is finally set to open

Pro-EU leader wins Moldova election despite alleged Russian meddling

Mitsotakis congratulates Moldovan president on re-election

The Greek "brand" in the US: What do American tourists think of Greece?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 4 Nov 2024 11:38:13 +0000

The past years have seen an exponential increase in the number of Americans who choose Greece for their vacation, and this trend is expected to continue in 2025. While Americans are arriving in Greece in droves, what do they really think about the country? That’s the focus of a recent poll that not only puts the spotlight on perceptions and impressions of Greece in the US, but also raises questions for Greece’s tourism sector about the country’s overall brand. Iliana Magra, a journalist with Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this poll, the positive trends in US tourism to Greece, and the importance for Greece to further develop its brand abroad.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Αλλάζοντας το brand «Ελλάδα» στις ΗΠΑ

Cyprus is committed to expanding defense ties with the US, says its president

Turkey ousts 3 elected pro-Kurdish mayors from office and replaces them with state officials

Can the US afford to paper over Erdogan’s inflammatory rhetoric?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 1 Nov 2024 09:43:21 +0000

With the US elections around the corner, discussions are already underway about how a new administration will tackle the question of Turkey. As this discussion intensifies, just a few days ago we saw members of Congress call out Turkish President Erdogan’s aggressive rhetoric against NATO and key allies. The Foundation for Defense of Democracies’ Sinan Ciddi and Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, join Thanos Davelis to look at why a new US administration cannot afford to look past Turkish President Erdogan’s aggressive rhetoric.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Gottheimer, Bilirakis Lead Bipartisan Letter to Secretary Blinken Regarding President Erdoğan’s Anti-NATO and Anti-Israel Rhetoric

Six miles? Not a chance.

Sustainable estrangement: Embracing the new normal in US-Turkish relations

Regional rivals join forces: Greece, Turkey in OSCE bid

Greek content, Turkish ire

PM reaffirms commitment to new minimum wage hikes

Searching for the remains of Greek soldiers who perished in the mountains of Albania

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 08:38:08 +0000

Earlier this week Greeks around the world celebrated “OXI Day” - the day 84 years ago that saw Greece reject the ultimatums of Italy’s Mussolini. The heroics of the Greek army during World War II are well known, as they showed occupied Europe that the Axis was not invincible. Today, however, I want to focus on another side of this story, and that’s the ongoing search for the remains of Greek soldiers who perished as the Greek army pushed the Italians back, many of them buried in the mountains of Albania. Yiannis Papadopoulos, a journalist with Kathimerini and author of a recent report highlighting this issue, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this story, which remains an open wound for the relatives of these soldiers.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Ούτε τους έκλαψαν ούτε τους ασπάστηκαν

Biden expresses optimism for Cyprus solution during Christodoulides’ White House visit

Biden, Cyprus president discuss administration push to win cease-fires in Gaza and Lebanon

Greece seeks tougher EU migration policies as it braces for impact of Mideast wars

Is there room for substantive talks on Greek-Turkish differences?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 09:14:10 +0000

The Greek and Turkish foreign ministers are set to meet on November 8th in Athens to explore whether there is genuine room for substantive discussions on Greek-Turkish differences, particularly issues in the Aegean Sea. In the lead up to this meeting, neither Greece nor Turkey have deviated from their core positions, something diplomats say is expected. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis as we look ahead at this crucial meeting, breaking down what to expect from Athens and Ankara, how the US elections could impact this process, and what role the EU can play.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece and Turkey hold firm on positions ahead of pivotal Nov 8 meeting

Announcement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the attacks on the Greek Member of the European Parliament Fredi Beleri (29.10.2024)

Beleri pelted with yogurt and eggs in Tirana

First A-level credit rating for Cyprus

White House visit puts US-Cyprus ties in the spotlight

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 07:29:55 +0000

This week Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulidis will head to Washington, DC for an official meeting with President Joe Biden at the Oval Office. The invitation - which was reported on this weekend - comes as US-Cyprus relations continue to reach new heights. These past few months alone have put this positive trajectory in the spotlight, with Cyprus and the US signing a defense cooperation agreement and initiating a strategic dialogue. Lena Argiri, the Washington, DC correspondent for ERT - the Greek Public Broadcasting Company - and Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what this White House visit means for US-Cyprus ties, especially as Cyprus emerges as a critical strategic partner for the United States.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Cypriot President Christodoulides to meet with Biden at the White House

Greek president, PM attend October 28th commemoration events

Mitsotakis highlights importance of national unity ahead of ‘Ochi Day’

North Macedonia seeking closer cooperation

Is there a possibility for new peace talks between Ankara and the PKK?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 08:56:40 +0000

Just days after we saw moves that hinted a resumption of negotiations between Ankara and the PKK could be on the table, a deadly attack took place in Ankara that killed 5 people and left more than 20 wounded. Turkish authorities said the PKK stood behind the attack, and Turkey’s air force bombed Kurdish militant targets in neighboring Iraq and Syria. Ayla Jean Yackley, an Istanbul-based journalist covering Turkey with stories in The Financial Times, Politico, and other major outlets, joins Thanos Davelis to break down these latest developments and look into the reported efforts to end the conflict between the Turkish army and the PKK.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey pummels Kurds in Syria over Ankara attack amid overtures to PKK leader Ocalan

Turkey strikes Kurdish militant targets in Iraq and Syria following deadly attack on defense company

PM’s Serbia visit underscores Balkan EU integration efforts

NASA Welcomes Republic of Cyprus as 46th Artemis Accords Signatory

United States Welcomes the Republic of Cyprus’ Signing of the Artemis Accords

How migrant students are lured to the Turkish-occupied part of Cyprus

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 07:59:33 +0000

The Financial Times recently put the spotlight on a phenomenon that has been dubbed the “north Cyprus trap” that has seen tens of thousands of migrant students get lured with false promises to so-called universities in the Turkish-occupied north of Cyprus. This practice is not only mired in fraud and human rights abuses, but also enables migrant smugglers who are moving many of these students through the Green Line. Joseph Wilkins, a journalist for the Financial Times based in Nicosia and the author of this report, joins Thanos Davelis as we dive into this story.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The ‘north Cyprus trap’: migrant students lured with false promises

Turkey strikes Kurdish militant targets in Iraq and Syria following deadly attack on defense company

At least five dead in attack at Turkish aviation company

US and Cyprus launch a strategic dialogue to bolster security

The war in Lebanon and its impacts across the region

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 08:10:26 +0000

With Israel appearing to expand its war against Hezbollah in Lebanon, targeting the group's financial networks, the US is increasingly concerned that the conflict has “escalated out of control”, with top officials calling for the enforcement of a UN resolution that ended the previous major war between them in 2006. At the same time, there is renewed concern that the war is fueling Lebanon’s sectarian tensions, threatening the balance between Lebanon’s three main religious groups. Sean Mathews, a journalist for the Middle East Eye covering the Middle East, North Africa and the Balkans, joins Thanos Davelis to break down how this evolving conflict is impacting Lebanon and the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

How the US dived into a war to reshape Lebanon's balance of power

Beirut divided: Israeli strikes fuel Lebanon’s sectarian tensions

Lebanon assesses the damage after Israel strikes Hezbollah-linked banks

U.S. Tries to End War in Lebanon That Biden Envoy Calls ‘Out of Control’

Erdogan’s nationalist ally suggests parole for imprisoned Kurdish leader Ocalan

IMF raises forecast for Cyprus’ economic growth

Is Sinwar's death a chance for a reset in the region?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 09:37:21 +0000

After a one-year manhunt, Israeli forces were able to kill Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar last week. Could this pave the way for a reset in a region grappling with the aftermath of the deadly October 7th, 2023, attack Sinwar stood behind? Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to look at why the death of Sinwar is a chance to reopen the door to the brief era of regional cooperation that was being celebrated before October 7th, particularly the 3+1 mechanism between Greece, Cyprus, Israel, and the US.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The Sinwar reset

Turkish move to acquire Eurofighter jets effort to restore air force balance

Germany sets terms for Turkey jet sale

Dissent emerges within PASOK over Androulakis’ new appointments

Has migration become Europe's song that never ends?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 10:04:28 +0000

Migration was - once again - at the heart of discussions at the latest EU leaders summit, as the issue has been taking on new dimensions across the continent. This renewed focus on migration comes after the far-right made gains in the European Parliament, in various elections in Germany and Austria, and follows the opening of Italy’s controversial offshore detention centers in Albania. Angeliki Dimitriadi, a Senior Research Fellow and Head of the Migration Program at the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP), joins Thanos Davelis to explore how migration is once again challenging EU leaders, and break down what the path forward looks like.

Given the political landscape in Europe right now, how do you see this issue evolving?

Von der Leyen promises more deportations as EU veers right on migration

Greece sceptical about EU outsourcing asylum seekers

EU seeks to accelerate return of migrants

Albania says only Italy is allowed to operate migrant asylum centers in the country

Italy’s offshore detention centers in Albania open for business

Erdoğan’s arch enemy Fethullah Gülen dies, reports say

Pyatt underscores Greece’s leadership role in energy security

Erdogan's absurd claims that Israel wants to target Turkey

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 09:44:55 +0000

Earlier this month Erdogan made a wild accusation that Israel was planning to wage war on, or target, Turkey. While these absurd claims are mainly seen as an effort by the Turkish President to appease his Islamist base and distract from the country’s economic troubles, there is concern that to ignore such statements encourages further incitement. Alan Makovsky, a senior fellow for the Center for American Progress and a former senior staffer with responsibility for Turkey on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why Erdogan’s claims, if left unchecked, risk stoking more hatred in Turkey and the region.

In our discussion we also look into the Turkey-Hamas connection. This conversation was recorded before the news about the killing of Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader who was an architect of the October 7 attacks.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Erdogan accuses Israel of wanting to wage war on Turkey despite robust trade ties

EU leaders set course for tougher policy to send back irregular migrants

Greece, Ukraine sign security agreement in Brussels

SYRIZA's internal struggles and PASOK's new opportunity

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 09:14:24 +0000

With the exclusion of former party head Stefanos Kasselakis from its leadership election, it looks like SYRIZA is plunging into fresh turmoil. With the party effectively leaderless and consumed by internal struggles for the coming weeks, many see this as an opportunity for PASOK - which just wrapped up its own leadership elections - to state its case to be considered the main opposition party. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder of Macropolis.gr, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the latest crisis within SYRIZA and look at what to keep an eye on as PASOK shifts gears following its leadership race.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Androulakis reaffirmed as PASOK leader, ending talk of centre-left alliance

Kasselakis criticizes SYRIZA central committee’s decision to disqualify him from leadership race

PM pushing for EU action on migration in Brussels

Ankara hardens stance before Athens talks

Azerbaijan's human-rights record under fire ahead of COP29

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 09:02:35 +0000

Next month COP 29, the UN’s flagship climate conference, is once again going to be hosted by an authoritarian petrostate - Azerbaijan. In the build up to COP29, human rights organizations, civil society groups, and major news outlets have all shared their concerns about Azerbaijan’s human rights record - from its aggression in the Caucasus against Armenians to its crackdown on dissidents at home. Aram Hamparian, the Executive Director of the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA), joins Thanos Davelis to look into the growing pressure on Azerbaijan, and break down why COP29 should matter to anyone who believes in human rights.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

COP29 and the greenwashing of Azerbaijan

Back off, Azerbaijan tells human rights critics ahead of COP29

At UN dinner, Cypriot leaders agree to meet again soon

Majority of Greeks concerned about overtourism, survey finds

Mitsotakis: ‘Greece does not have an overtourism problem’

Germany's occupation of Greece and the lingering question of reparations and a forced loan

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 10:19:19 +0000

A few days ago, on October 12th, Athens celebrated 80 years since the liberation of the city from a brutal Nazi German occupation that left its mark not just on Athens, but on all of Greece. Today, we take a look back at this historic moment, but also at a question that has lingered ever since, impacting Greece’s relations with Germany: the issue of reparations and a forced loan taken from Greece. John Psaropoulos joins Thanos Davelis as we dive into this issue and look at why it is still on the table.

John Psaropoulos is an independent journalist and Al Jazeera's correspondent in southeast Europe. He publishes

Hellenica

, a weekly deep dive into Greek current affairs and history. You can find it on Substack.com.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Occupied Greece lent Nazi Germany billions. Now it seeks repayment, but is afraid to ask

SYRIZA’s future in balance as it braces for showdown

EU terms for Albania on minority rights

Erdogan's Balkan tour

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 08:00:52 +0000

Last week Turkish President Erdogan set out on a tour of the Balkans, visiting Albania and Serbia. The tour kicked off in Albania, with Erdogan gifting a number of drones and inaugurating the largest mosque in the Balkans - which was funded by Turkey. The second leg took him to Serbia, where Turkey made a diplomatic comeback in 2017. Thanos Davelis caught up with expert Dimitar Bechev last week while Erdogan was wrapping up his visit to Belgrade. We looked into Erdogan’s Balkan tour, and broke down Turkey’s broader agenda in the region.

Dimitar Bechev is a senior fellow at Carnegie Europe, where he focuses on EU enlargement, the Western Balkans, and Eastern Europe, and he is the author of the bookTurkey under Erdogan.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Erdogan inaugurates mosque in Albania, pledges military drones as he begins Balkan tour

Turkey, Serbia Eye Cooperation On Production Of Military Drones

Androulakis celebrates reelection as PASOK leader, vows to end New Democracy’s dominance

Androulakis re-elected PASOK leader

US has not met its commitments, says Greek defense minister

Dendias highlights Greece’s military progress

Greece at the heart of a new energy map that's transforming the region

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 10:21:05 +0000

This week Greece - together with the European Commission - hosted the REPowerEU workshop on energy in Athens. This was a chance to put the spotlight on how Greece is at the heart of energy developments like the “Vertical Corridor”, renewables, and electricity interconnectors that are transforming the region and breaking its dependence on Russian energy. Theodoros Tsakiris, a Professor of Geopolitics and Energy Policy at the University of Nicosia, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this important meeting in Athens and explore the various projects that have put Greece on the energy map as a serious player.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Remarks at the REPowerEU Diversification Workshop

Pyatt to “N”: Greece’s amazing transformation into an energy hub

Erdogan inaugurates mosque in Albania, pledges military drones as he begins Balkan tour

Erdogan visits Tirana bearing gifts

MED 9 Summit in Cyprus: EU leaders confront Israel-Lebanon conflict and migration concerns

Cyprus hosts European Commission President for MED9 Summit

A chance to rekindle Cyprus talks?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 08:07:13 +0000

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is set to hold talks with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar in New York next week, the latest push to kickstart stalled talks for a solution to the Cyprus problem. The talks come as Tatar and Turkish President Erdogan have been doubling down on their calls for a two-state solution, with Erdogan even calling for recognition of the pseudo-state at the UN General Assembly. Konstantinos Letymbiotis, the Government Spokesperson of the Republic of Cyprus, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss these upcoming talks, Turkey’s intransigent positions, and how Cyprus’ growing role in the region impacts negotiations.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

UN chief to meet with Cypriot leaders in October

Christodoulides, Tatar informal dinner confirmed

Ankara leveraging Halki bargaining chip

Could Halki Seminary reopen soon?

Greek Cypriot scientist Demis Hassabis wins Nobel Prize in chemistry

Nobel prize win for Greek Cypriot scientist

Greece and Turkey to wade into maritime issues

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 9 Oct 2024 11:21:01 +0000

After a meeting at the UN between the leaders of Greece and Turkey, it appears talks to delimit the continental shelf and EEZ - the main issue on the table - could materialize. This was confirmed in a recent interview that Greece’s Foreign Minister Georgios Gerapetritis, who will meet with his Turkish counterpart next month in Athens, gave to Kathimerini. Expert Constantinos Filis, the director of the Institute of Global Affairs and a professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what we should expect from these upcoming talks, and look into how this issue fits into the broader puzzle that is the Eastern Mediterranean.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

FM: ‘Only action can produce momentum’

A group of 17 European countries call for a 'paradigm shift' to deport rejected asylum seekers

SYRIZA’s fate hanging in the balance

PASOK's leadership race - and future - up for grabs

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 8 Oct 2024 08:57:59 +0000

Sunday’s election for PASOK’s leadership was a nail-biter up until the early hours of Monday, keeping analysts up well into the night. The race for second place, which saw Athens mayor Haris Doukas narrowly defeat former minister Pavlos Yeroulanos, has set the stage for a runoff against incumbent Nikos Androulakis. Lamprini Rori, an Assistant Professor in Political Analysis at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens who frequently comments on Greek politics, joins Thanos Davelis to break down the key takeaways from Sunday’s vote, and provide a look into the struggle for PASOK's future.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Inside the struggle for PASOK’s future

Greece in talks with US over LCS ships

Fears grow about a new energy crisis

Could Halki Seminary reopen soon?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 7 Oct 2024 09:30:49 +0000

We’ve seen recent reports - most notably in Kathimerini - hinting that Turkey could be prepared to take steps to reopen the historic Halki Seminary, something Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew has also voiced optimism about. Elizabeth Prodromou, a visiting Professor in the International Studies Program at Boston College, a non-resident senior fellow in the Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Center, and an expert in international religious freedom issues, joins Thanos Davelis to look into these reports, and break down what is on the table when it comes to Halki.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Positive signals for Halki Seminary

PASOK leadership up for grabs

PM urges for de-escalation amid rising Middle East tensions

Greek PM marks anniversary of Oct 7 Hamas attack

Greece and Cyprus navigating flashpoints from Ukraine to the Middle East

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 4 Oct 2024 10:45:29 +0000

On the campaign trail, former President Trump constantly warns of a World War III. In Greece and Cyprus, it already feels like such a war is playing out as Athens and Nicosia have to navigate flashpoints to the north in Ukraine and to the south in the Middle East. Endy Zemenides, HALC’s Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss how these wide-ranging conflicts are affecting Greece and Cyprus – domestically, in their relations with regional actors, and in their bilateral relationships with the United States.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece on alert for migrant wave, terror concerns

Adams indictment focuses on connections to Turkey

‘A true friend of Turkey’: Eric Adams bribery indictment reveals years of flights and favors

Greeks, Cypriots evacuated from Lebanon land in Elefsina

Cyprus chosen as base for Belgian military operation to rescue nationals from Lebanon

Election drama in PASOK and the challenge of uniting Greece’s center left

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 3 Oct 2024 09:20:36 +0000

This Sunday is decision day for the leadership race in PASOK, a race that could determine not only the future of PASOK but the way forward for the broader center left. With six candidates vying to take over the party, the drama in PASOK is likely to continue beyond Sunday’s election as a runoff is expected between the two leading candidates. Nikos Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what to expect from this election, and whether this is PASOK’s last chance at uniting Greece’s center left.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Candidates spar over party strategy and past allegiances

What do the ‘exes’ think about the center-left?

New poll shows SYRIZA dropping to fifth place

Ολα είναι δρόμος (και καφενεία)

Greece on alert for migrant wave, terror concerns

Cyprus on standby to assist evacuations from Middle East

The record rise in sea turtle nesting in Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 2 Oct 2024 09:03:42 +0000

Once on the verge of extinction, the Caretta caretta sea turtle is recording an amazing bounce-back as its nests are reaching record numbers. At the heart of this comeback is the Greek island of Zakynthos and the shore of Sekania, long described as the Mediterranean’s greatest “maternity ward” for this sea turtle, home to a state-funded marine park. Charikleia Minotou, who coordinates the WWF program in this protected area, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the conservation efforts behind this sea turtle's extraordinary resurgence, and explore what still needs to be done.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

‘It’s hugely moving’: sea turtle nests in Greece reach record numbers

Greece to hold emergency meeting following Iran’s missile attack on Israel

Greece condemns Iran’s attack on Israel, urges de-escalation

UN chief to meet with Cypriot leaders in October

Far-right win in Austria a warning for Europe

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 1 Oct 2024 09:12:42 +0000

Austria's far-right Freedom Party, a party rooted in Nazi ideology, just celebrated an unprecedented election victory on Sunday night, with its leader talking about a new era for the far right. This is seen as another worrying sign for Europe, as a surge by populist far-right forces shows no sign of slowing down. Georgios Samaras, an Assistant Professor of Public Policy at King’s College London whose research has centered on the far right in Greece and Europe, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what this election result means for Austria, and look into the far-right’s growing presence across the continent.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Far right in Austria 'opens new era' with election victory

Austria goes back to the future as voters embrace far-right party founded by Nazis

What a Trump victory would really mean for Europe

Greece, Turkey wade into maritime issues

Wildfire continues in Corinthia for third day

Wildfire burning through forest in southern Greece kills 2 people

From a Greek "Iron Dome" to diplomacy at the UN

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 11:03:56 +0000

With world leaders gathering in New York last week for the UN General Assembly, the focus was undoubtedly on diplomacy as Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ met with Turkish President Erdogan and world leaders sounded the alarm about the risks engulfing the world. As Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition - who joins Thanos Davelis on our show today - writes in The Greek Letter, tensions in Greece’s neighborhood and uncertainty around the world mean diplomacy has to go hand in hand with a strong defense policy, highlighting the decision for a Greek “Iron Dome”.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

A ‘powder keg that risks engulfing the world’

EU ministers scramble to find a response to Middle East carnage

EU to hold emergency talks on Lebanon escalation

Greece begins sale of 10% National Bank stake

Why is the White House so keen on bringing Turkey back into the F-35 program?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 07:21:31 +0000

A proposal is reportedly on the table that could potentially see the US gain control of Turkey’s S-400s in return for Ankara re-joining the F-35 program. This has many asking why the Biden administration is in a rush to find a way to bring Turkey back into a program that it was ejected from as a result of Ankara’s embrace of Russia and behavior that is antithetical to NATO. Sinan Ciddi joins Thanos Davelis to look into this developing story, and make the case that Turkey should prove it is ready to embrace NATO before Washington begins to open the door to any arms deals like the F-35s.

Sinan Ciddi is a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), where he contributes to FDD’s Turkey Program and Center on Military and Political Power (CMPP). He is also an Associate Professor of Security Studies at the Command and Staff College-Marine Corps University and Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey should prove it is ready to embrace NATO

Greek PM sees ‘window of opportunity’ on demarcating maritime zones with Turkey

Cyprus leader says he ready to resume peace talks ‘today’

Migration, demographics, and Greece's search for a strategy

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 10:26:57 +0000

The issue of migration is back on the agenda in Greece, putting the spotlight on a phenomenon that has been ongoing in the country for at least 3 decades. This was the focus of recent studies by DiaNEOsis in Greece which looked at Greek perspectives on migration and dug into the policies designed to address this issue which has an impact across society - from the labor market to demographics. Aggelos Tramountanis, a researcher specializing on migration at Greece’s National Center for Social Research, joins Thanos Davelis for a deeper dive into this issue.

Greek-Turkish relations in the spotlight as Mitsotakis and Erdogan meet at the UN

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 10:21:30 +0000

On Tuesday Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Turkish President Recep Tayipp Erdogan met on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, making it the sixth time the two leaders have met since the NATO summit in Vilnius fourteen months ago. Reports indicate that beyond a commitment to maintain calm and a positive agenda, issues like migration and Cyprus also came up. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what message this meeting sends about Greek-Turkish relations, and to look at what else to expect from the UNGA.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Mitsotakis, Erdogan agree on next steps

Greece Aims to Slash Debt to Lowest Since 2009 Within Four Years

UK moves 700 troops to Cyprus ready to evacuate Britons from Lebanon

Leave Lebanon now, Starmer tells Britons

A historic night elevating Greek basketball on the world stage

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 09:33:26 +0000

While world leaders gather in New York, we’re going to turn our attention to Athens and the historic Panathenaic Stadium, where over 40,000 fans gathered for a basketball tournament this weekend. Kathimerini described this as a night that raised the bar for Greek basketball around the world. Alexander Kitroeff, a professor of history, a frequent commentator on Greek sport, and a lifelong Panathinaikos fan, joins Thanos Davelis on The Greek Current today as we look at a night that put Greek basketball in the world’s spotlight.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

A historic night in Athens with a modern record of 42.000 fans

Partizan beats PAO in historic open-air game for “Pavlos Giannakopoulos” tournament

Μια βραδιά που γιγάντωσε την Ελλάδα στο παγκόσμιο μπάσκετ

CYA Hellenic Executive Program

Bar not high in Mitsotakis, Erdogan talks

Macron expresses interest in Crete-Cyprus interconnector

UAE’s TAQA looks to invest in Cyprus-Greece electricity project

Russian missiles for F-35s? A US proposal to resolve the S-400 issue with Turkey

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 09:23:48 +0000

This weekend Kathimerini reported that a US proposal is on the table that could see a resolution to the Russian S-400 missile issue that has been a thorn in the side of US-Turkey relations over the last years. This could potentially result in the lifting of CAATSA sanctions and a path for Turkey to rejoin the F35 program. Lena Argiri, the Washington, DC correspondent for ERT - the Greek Public Broadcasting Company - and Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest scoop from Washington, DC.

Read Lena Argiri’s latest piece for Kathimerini: Talks on S-400 seen nearing a compromise

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

HALC makes ‘no weapons to Turkey’ petition to US Congress

Busy week of meetings for PM at the UN

Turkey's growing footprint in Africa

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 09:01:32 +0000

Turkey’s recent role in mediating talks between Somalia and Ethiopia has put the spotlight on how Turkey’s influence in Africa has boomed over the past two decades. As the Financial Times reported in a recent in-depth piece, Turkey’s rapidly growing influence has been particularly prominent in the Sahel region, especially over the past few years. Turkey’s focus on Africa comes as a number of so-called “middle powers” are vying to gain a larger foothold on the continent. Ulf Laessing, the head of the Sahel program at the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Foundation, joins Thanos Davelis to look at Turkey’s growing footprint in the Sahel and Africa.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey’s expanding leverage in Africa

The middle-power competition in Africa

Von der Leyen, responding to Mitsotakis, outlines plan to lower energy prices

PM: Buying 4th frigate will not upend fiscal policy

A plan to make Europe more competitive: Will leaders heed Draghi's call to action?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 08:57:07 +0000

Mario Draghi recently released a report on Europe’s competitiveness that has sparked debate across the continent. The report, which shows Europe lagging behind the US and China in a number of areas, has many asking if the continent’s leaders will heed his call to action. Jacob Kirkegaard, a nonresident senior fellow with the Peterson Institute for International Economics and senior fellow at Bruegel, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why this report has sparked a debate across the EU, and look at what steps Europe needs to take to meet the challenges before it.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Mario Draghi outlines his plan to make Europe more competitive

Draghi is trying to save Europe from itself

Draghi's competitiveness report: Can Europe heed the call to action?

Greece to buy US drones

Migration undermining EU’s cohesion

Greece targets short term rentals in Athens

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 08:56:42 +0000

Earlier this month Prime Minister Mitsotakis announced a series of measures designed to alleviate Greece’s housing crisis. It came as no surprise that Airbnb and short term rentals were also targeted - especially in downtown Athens - as Greece announced it will ban new short-term rentals in the center for at least a year. Iliana Magra, a journalist with Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to look at these latest announcements, and provide a look into how Greeks living in neighborhoods of Athens that see a large number of tourists throughout the year are reacting to this news.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece to ban new short-term lets in Athens for at least a year

Guarded optimism for Cyprus cable link

Greece clinches transport and tourism portfolio in new EU Commission

5 takeaways on Ursula von der Leyen’s new Commission

Central Bank standoff in Libya fuels fears of new conflict

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 08:08:22 +0000

Earlier this month a Turkish-flagged vessel suspected of carrying weapons to Libya blocked the EU’s naval mission Irini from inspecting its cargo. This isn’t the first time this has happened. The timing of this shipment, however, which comes amid an escalating row over the leadership of the country’s Central Bank, is fueling speculation of renewed conflict in Libya. Amberin Zaman, Al-Monitor’s chief correspondent covering major stories on the Middle East and North Africa, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this unfolding crisis in Libya, and break down whether this should be a cause for concern in the Mediterranean.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Libyan Central Bank standoff fuels conflict fears as Turkey, Russia send weapons

From Turkey, exiled Libyan Central Bank governor decries 'coup d'etat'

Burning oil tanker is safely towed away from Yemen after rebel attacks

Greece to ban new short-term lets in Athens for at least a year

Greece risks going thirsty amid water scarcity crisis

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 08:28:27 +0000

Over the summer we’ve read about issues of water scarcity on Greece’s islands, many of them struggling to find ways to meet demand during the summer - especially as tourists swarm to the islands. New warnings, however, indicate that Greece’s countryside and the city of Athens could face their own water crisis. Experts have warned that if droughts persist, Athens would run out of water in another four years. This has spurred the government into action, and it has announced a series of ambitious water projects. John Psaropoulos joins Thanos Davelis to look into the challenge that Greece is up against.

Read John Psaropoulos’ latest in Hellenica here: Greece fights climate emergency with huge waterworks as Athens risks going thirsty

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Attica faces water shortages due to receding Lake Mornos

The tug of war with Berlin over migration

Salvagers launch new attempt to tow an oil tanker blown up by Yemen’s Houthi rebels

Migration: Europe concerned about a "domino effect" as Germany imposes new border measures

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 10:17:00 +0000

Earlier this year Europeans seemed to wrap up years of negotiations to pass a new migration pact. Now, Germany has decided to impose temporary controls on its land borders in an immigration crackdown. This is leading to a string of reactions across Europe, with frontline states like Greece increasingly concerned about the possibility of a “domino effect” that would see other member states take similar steps. Alexandra Voudouri, Kathimerini’s correspondent in Brussels, joins Thanos Davelis to look into whether the nightmare of closed borders could once again become a reality in Europe.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Concern over a migration domino effect

'Unacceptable': Neighbours slam Germany for new border control measures

Unauthorized migration into the EU declined despite heated politics

Mitsotakis and Christodoulides to meet in Athens for linkup deal

‘Blue Homeland’ debuts at Turkish schools

Thessaloniki: An international hub in an evolving region

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 09:55:13 +0000

All eyes have been on Thessaloniki these days as the Thessaloniki International Fair is putting a spotlight on Greece’s second city. Beyond the droves of politicians, diplomats and business leaders visiting the city, this was an opportunity to shine a light on the crucial role that Thessaloniki can play in an evolving region. Endy Zemenides, HALC’s Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how Thessaloniki is positioning itself to play a key role in this new international setting.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Thessaloniki’s potential role in connecting initiatives

CYA Hellenic Executive Program

Rama celebrating his own goal

Cyprus and US sign bilateral defense cooperation roadmap

Turkey, submarines, and the challenge for Greece’s navy

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 09:05:30 +0000

Turkey recently took delivery of its first German-built T-214 submarine with air-independent propulsion system, a submarine that falls in the same category as the Greek Papanikolis. The news sparked discussions in Athens about whether Greece is falling behind its neighbor and nominal ally at sea. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this development, break down what the situation at sea looks like, and explore how Greece plans to position itself as a key player at sea in the coming years.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Arms race with Turkey a Sisyphean trial

The great EU Commission puzzle: Who we think will get each portfolio

Difficult day after for headless SYRIZA

SYRIZA political drama in the spotlight

Mitsotakis sets the agenda in Thessaloniki as SYRIZA descends into further turmoil

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 9 Sep 2024 10:24:49 +0000

This weekend Prime Minister Mitsotakis delivered his keynote address at the Thessaloniki International Fair. While he made it clear he was not showing up with a bag of gifts, he did announce a number of programs with a 2027 horizon, and put the issue of tackling issues related to over-tourism on the table as well. At the same time in Athens, SYRIZA leader Stefanos Kasselakis lost a no-confidence motion, throwing the main opposition party into further turmoil. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder of Macropolis.gr, joins Thanos Davelis with the key takeaways from Mitsotakis’ speech in Thessaloniki and the turmoil in SYRIZA.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Tight, targeted spending, with a 2027 horizon

Greece cracks down on excessive tourism

SYRIZA leader Kasselakis falls in no-confidence motion

Greece, Saudi Arabia talks to salvage tanker

Tuesday is Cyprus' last chance to end its energy isolation

Are Turkish-Egyptian relations entering a “new phase”?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 6 Sep 2024 09:03:54 +0000

Are Turkish-Egyptian relations entering a “new phase”? This week Egypt’s President al-Sisi traveled to Ankara to meet with Turkish President Erdogan, a visit that came after over a decade of tensions between the two countries that spanned from Libya to the Eastern Mediterranean and saw Erdogan describe his Egyptian counterpart as a “tyrant”. Steven Cook, the Eni Enrico Mattei Senior Fellow for Middle East and Africa Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis to explore whether we are seeing relations between Turkey and Egypt turn a new page, and break down what this means for the region.

Read Steven Cook’s latest book here: The End of Ambition: America’s Past, Present, and Future in the Middle East

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Egypt's Sisi makes first presidential visit to Turkey in 12 years

Egypt’s el-Sisi says Turkey visit paves way for ‘new phase’ in relations

Turkey's Role in NATO Comes Under Scrutiny

Summer 2024 was world's warmest on record

Chevron’s plan for Aphrodite

Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and the threat of environmental catastrophe

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 5 Sep 2024 08:18:59 +0000

A series of attacks in the Red Sea by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels have left a Greek flagged ship, the Sounion, stranded, threatening to spill its 1 million barrels of oil into the sea. Greece has taken the lead in coordinating efforts to evacuate and tow the Sounion, but the threat of environmental disaster remains large. Bradley Bowman, the Senior Director of the Center on Military and Political Power at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, joins Thanos Davelis to look into the ongoing crisis in the Red Sea, the role of Iran in supporting the Houthis, the efforts to avoid an environmental disaster, and break down what more can be done to protect shipping and thwart the Houthis.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Yemen’s Houthi rebels target oil tanker in the Red Sea. US says rebels also hit Saudi-flagged tanker

Houthis Attack Two More Tankers in Red Sea, Sparking Fears of Environmental Catastrophe

Greece, Saudis Coordinate to Avert Red Sea Oil Tanker Disaster

Drought dries up lake to reveal sunken Greek village

Re-emergence of Greece’s sunken village shows extent of rainfall crisis

Egypt's Sisi makes first presidential visit to Turkey in 12 years

Is there a clear "Harris Doctrine"?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 4 Sep 2024 09:12:10 +0000

Ever since Vice President Kamala Harris replaced President Biden in the presidential race, the question for many - especially in Greece and Cyprus - is what to expect from a Harris presidency on foreign policy, and who would have the ear of a potential President Harris. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Vice President Harris’ foreign policy track record, and break down what Greece and Cyprus should expect in the event that Kamala Harris is sworn in as the 47th President of the United States.

Read Endy Zemenides’ latest piece in Kathimerini here: A Harris Doctrine?

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

PM to send restart message in Thessaloniki

Forging a Balkan front on electricity rates

50 years of PASOK: From Andreas into the 21st century

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 3 Sep 2024 08:44:36 +0000

Today, September 3rd, marks 50 years since Andreas Papandreou founded PASOK, a political party that came to play a key role in Greece from the restoration of democracy to the financial crisis. Harris Mylonas, an Associate Professor of Political Science and International Affairs at George Washington University and the executive producer of the award winning documentary Searching for Andreas: Political Leadership in Times of Crisis, joins Thanos Davelis to look into PASOK’s 50 year legacy, from its founding under the leadership of Andreas Papandreou to the challenges it faces today as it looks to redefine itself.

You can watch the documentary on Andreas Papandreou here: Searching for Andreas: Political Leadership in Times of Crisis

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

PASOK turning 50

An ethnic Greek politician and EU lawmaker is released on probation in Albania

Beleri granted early release after 16 months in Albanian prison

Initial agreement reached for interconnector

Interconnector agreement reached

Greece's tourism model and the transition to a more innovative economy

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 10:19:20 +0000

While summer may be winding down, water scarcity, overcrowded streets and rising housing costs are infuriating locals across southern European countries - especially those that rely on tourism. Greece is no exception, and we are seeing reactions to overtourism not only on Greece’s top island destinations, but also in cities like Athens. Professor Dimitris Vayanos joins Thanos Davelis to look into Greece’s reliance on tourism and explore whether it is time for Greece to change its tourism model, improving what is a vital product for the country while transitioning to a more innovative economy.

Dimitris Vayanos, is a professor of finance at the London School of Economics, the co-editor of the book "Beyond Austerity: Reforming the Greek Economy," and a member of the Pissarides Commission which developed a growth plan for Greece at the request of the Greek government.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Analysis: Is it time for Greece to change its tourism model?

From tourism to an innovative economy

Greece and Saudi Arabia lead effort to tow Greek tanker attacked in Red Sea

Gerapetritis raises Kasos issue with Fidan

Is there an effort afoot to revive the F-35 deal with Turkey?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 08:03:23 +0000

Is there an effort afoot to revive the F-35 deal with Turkey? The issue popped up in a report in the Turkish newspaper Cumhuriyet, and has raised questions about whether this is being seriously considered - despite the issue of the Russian S-400s remaining unresolved - or if it is wishful thinking on the part of Ankara. Michael Rubin, the director of policy analysis at the Middle East Forum and a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this latest report and break down why an F-35 reboot for Turkey is a mistake.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey Can’t Ever Get the F-35 Fighter

Ambassador Flake opens up before leaving his job in Turkey

Greek, Turkish FMs to meet in Brussels

Measures to tackle Attica water shortage

An era of political uncertainty? A new poll sends shockwaves across Greece's political spectrum

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 10:05:52 +0000

A recent poll is turning heads in Greece as it shows not only what appears to be a total collapse of the main opposition SYRIZA, which fell into single digit numbers, but also a noticeable decline in support for the ruling New Democracy party. Nikos Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author, joins Thanos Davelis to break down the key takeaways from this poll as we look at what message it sends about Greek politics, from SYRIZA with its never ending cycles of internal crises, PASOK and its effort to capture the Greek center left, and the ruling New Democracy.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

New poll sees SYRIZA drop to single digits amid noticeable decline for New Democracy

SYRIZA leader plays his final cards

Chevron-led group to update offshore gas plan as Cyprus sets deadline

Drying lakes and thirsty trees: In drought-hit Greece, water trucks are keeping crops alive

Cyprus: Europe's frontline and the Middle East crisis

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 08:41:11 +0000

Cyprus has emerged as a key player - particularly on the humanitarian front - as the ongoing war in Gaza and the broader crisis in the Middle East unfolds. While it has received international praise for its crucial role in providing aid to Gaza, tensions on the Lebanese-Israeli border saw Cyprus face threats from Hezbollah. Professor James Ker-Lindsay, who has worked extensively on the EU, the Balkans, and Southeast Europe, including Cyprus, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how Cyprus is emerging as Europe’s outpost in the region while navigating what is a complex geopolitical position that is seeing it balance its ties between its Arab and Israeli neighbors.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

CYPRUS | Europe’s Mideast Outpost?

Cyprus again offers sanctuary as Middle East violence spreads

Israel Averts All-Out War With Hezbollah, but Its Regional Conflicts Grind On

SYRIZA standing at three-way crossroads

SYRIZA fractured in three parts

Bulgaria to hold another snap parliamentary election on Oct. 27, says president

Is Turkey a Trojan horse inside NATO?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 09:45:22 +0000

Turkey is putting up roadblocks within NATO that are raising questions about whether the alliance’s largest air exercise, which Greece is preparing to host for the first time, will move forward smoothly. The heart of the issue is the Athens flight information region (FIR), whose jurisdiction Turkey does not fully recognize. This is consistent with Turkey’s broader efforts to turn the Aegean into a disputed territory. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to break down how Turkey’s latest actions put the alliance at risk, and should serve as a wake up call for NATO members.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

NATO air exercise in Greece faces roadblocks due to Turkey

Turkish aircraft violate Greek airspace over southeastern Aegean

UAV a ‘permanent’ Aegean visitor

Nato must wake up to Russia’s nuclear power deal with Turkey

Greek Orthodox cemetery in Istanbul vandalized

Syria’s al-Assad says Turkey rapprochement efforts unsuccessful

Mitsotakis to prioritize tackling Greece's housing challenge

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 09:03:30 +0000

Making housing more affordable is going to be one of the central themes of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ keynote speech at the Thessaloniki International Fair in early September. Property prices, both to buy and rent, have come to dominate the public debate over the past couple of years, as Airbnb, the Golden Visa scheme, and other factors continue to impact the market, leaving many Greeks unable to find homes in major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki. Georgia Nakou, a features editor at MacroPolis - a specialist website focused on political and economic analysis of Greek affairs, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Greece’s housing crisis and the government’s effort to put the issue front and center.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Housing tops government plans for policy reset in autumn

Oil tanker Sounion ‘poses environmental risk’ after Red Sea attack

Water emergency action now a summer ritual in Mediterranean

A new course for NATO and European defense?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 08:36:39 +0000

This year marked 75 years since the creation of NATO, and the latest summit in Washington, DC sent a clear message that NATO is back, returning to its Cold War roots deterring the Russians and adding new members. At the same time, however, there are increasing concerns in Europe about America’s long-term commitment to their security. This has revived the notion of building up Europe’s defense capabilities. Max Bergmann, the director of the Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program and the Stuart Center in Euro-Atlantic and Northern European Studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), joins Thanos Davelis to look at why this 75th anniversary is an opportunity for the US to lead the way in plotting a new course for NATO and European defense.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

NATO Missed a Chance to Transform Itself

Plan for recovery of forests in Attica

Greece to compensate fire-stricken households near Athens

Greek-flagged vessel ‘Sounion’ attacked in Red Sea

Can lessons from past wildfires help save Greece's forests?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 16:29:50 +0000

Last week Greece - and the region of Attica where Athens is located - suffered another major wildfire that threatened the suburbs of Athens and burned an area almost twice the size of Manhattan. This wildfire came a year after Greece experienced Europe’s largest ever wildfire on record, which burned over half of the Dadia National Park. John Psaropoulos joins Thanos Davelis as we return from a brief summer break to look back at the latest devastating wildfire that tore through Attica, and look at how lessons from the past can help save Greece’s forests.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

How lessons from past fires could help save Greece’s forests and farmland

Expert: EU, Greece should change mentality to face future wildfires

New round of surveys begin off Kasos

Tackling the housing shortage with vacant properties

50 years later, are efforts to solve the Cyprus problem at a critical juncture?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 3 Aug 2024 07:50:31 +0000

In a recent interview with Politico, President Christodoulides said “We cannot afford to wait for a new effort, a new initiative,” when talking about the Cyprus issue. At the same time, on the 50th anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, Turkish President Erdogan and Turkish Cypriot leader Tatar doubled down on their hardline position in favor of a two state solution. Menelaos Menelaou, the Greek Cypriot Negotiator for the Cyprus Problem, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss whether there is still a window of opportunity for talks to resume even as Ankara seems to be shutting the door to a solution.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Cyprus eyes chance to run EU Mediterranean policy

Erdoğan dashes hopes for resumption of Cyprus talks on invasion’s 50th anniversary

Cyprus rejects reports of airspace closure amid Middle East tensions

Goat plague scares Greek farmers still reeling from historic floods

The US election and the stakes for Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 1 Aug 2024 17:30:00 +0000

A few weeks ago it looked like former President Donald Trump was in the driver’s seat of the presidential election. In the last 10 days, however, President Biden dropped out of the race and Vice President Kamala Harris essentially locked up the nomination. William Antholis, the director and CEO of the University of Virginia’s Miller Center of Public Affairs, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how this is shaking up the presidential race in the US, and break down what President Biden’s decision - and the candidacy of Vice President Harris - means for America’s partners and allies, including Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

William J. Antholis: The US election is far from decided

Drama in the US raises stakes for Greece, too

Greece nominates Tzitzikostas as EU commissioner

Theodoros Tselidis Wins Bronze in Judo, Delivers Greece’s First Medal at Paris 2024

Judoka Thodoris Tselidis wins Greece’s first medal at Paris Olympics

Erdogan's u-turn on Syria's Assad

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 17:17:41 +0000

Over the past month we’ve seen reports that after more than a decade of trying to overthrow the Assad regime in Syria, Turkey’s President Erdogan is now open to resetting relations with President Bashar al-Assad. Henri Barkey, the Cohen Professor of International Relations at Lehigh University and Adjunct Senior Fellow for Middle East Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Erdogan’s u-turn when it comes to Assad, and break down what this could mean for the broader region, especially given the Russian and Iranian presence there.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Syria and Turkey: A path to reconciliation, or a defeat of the opposition?

As Erdogan woos Assad, is Turkey-Syria reconciliation rhetoric or reality?

US emphasizes importance of Prespa Agreement compliance for North Macedonia

Wildfire in Greek-Bulgarian border rages for 14th day, burning 1,500 hectares

40 hours of crisis in the Aegean

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 06:46:56 +0000

Last week, for approximately 40 hours, tensions in the Aegean hit heights we had not seen in over a year and a half as Greek and Turkish ships faced off in an area south of the Greek islands of Kassos and Karpathos. Turkish warships had deployed just outside Greece’s territorial waters in an effort to prevent an Italian research vessel from carrying out research for the future deployment of underwater cables for the Great Sea Interconnector. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to break down how this 40 hour crisis evolved and look at the broader message this incident sends about stability in the Aegean and the Eastern Mediterranean.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Οι 40 ώρες του συναγερμού

Diplomacy helps end Aegean standoff

Greece dismisses Turkish claims

Turkey renews dispute over maritime zones

FM again dismisses Turkish claims over Italian research vessel

Wildfires rage in Greece and Balkans after weeks of scorching weather

Probe clears Greek government agencies in spyware scandal but opposition calls it a cover-up

Acrimony as wiretapping case shelved

Foiled terror plot highlights Ankara's enabling of Hamas

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 08:21:19 +0000

In an escalation of rhetoric that is raising the temperature in the broader region, the last few days have seen Turkey’s President Erdogan threaten to intervene in Israel on behalf of the Palestinians, noting military interventions Turkey has made in the past in other countries. These statements came about a week after reports that Israel had foiled a major terrorist attack orchestrated from Hamas operatives in Turkey. Thanos Davelis spoke with Tyler Stapleton and Sinan Ciddi last week about this development - which once again puts Turkey’s support for Hamas in the spotlight - and explored what steps Washington and NATO can take to address Ankara’s enabling of Hamas.

Tyler Stapleton is the Director of Congressional Relations at FDD Action, and has served as a senior advisor on national security, foreign policy, defense, and intelligence for members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

Sinan Ciddi is a non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), where he contributes to FDD’s Turkey Program and Center on Military and Political Power (CMPP).

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Israel Foils Hamas Terror Attack Directed by Turkey

Turkey’s President Threatens Military Action Against Israel

Turkey threatens to ‘enter’ Israel to protect Palestinians

Turkey delisting exposes financial watchdog’s blind spot

Window opens for Parthenon Sculptures’ return

Greece's Santorini bursts with tourists as locals call for a cap

Greece and Cyprus eyeing key roles at the European level

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 27 Jul 2024 07:47:55 +0000

With Ursula von der Leyen securing another term as European Commission President, EU members are now vying for the top positions in the new Commission. In what Politico called a show of his growing political strength, Prime Minister Mitsotakis stressed that Greece must get an important portfolio, one that reflects the country’s economic comeback and strategic position. President Christodoulides is also looking for a heavier post for Cyprus, eyeing the new role in the Commission on the Mediterranean. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition and Politico’s Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest analysis.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece must get an important role in the Commission, prime minister tells von der Leyen

Cyprus eyes chance to run EU Mediterranean policy

Ankara eyes offshore hydrocarbon exploration in Libya, minister says

Greece warns Turkey against illegal activities in EEZ established by 2020 deal

Greek lenders and EIB boost mid-caps funding

Greeks turn their attention to the Paris Olympics

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 20:05:24 +0000

The Paris Olympics opening ceremony on Friday night will see more than 8,000 of the world’s top athletes - led by Greece - sail along the Seine River in a one of a kind spectacle. Aside from the excitement around the opening ceremony, where Greece and Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo will carry the Greek flag, there are also high expectations in Greece for all of its athletes. Nikos Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author of a best-selling biography on Olympic Champion Pyrros Dimas, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the buzz around the Olympics in Greece this summer, and break down whether Greek sport - which took a hit during the crisis - is bouncing back.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Paris prepares for Olympics opening ceremony spectacle along River Seine

Antetokounmpo leads Greece to place in Olympics

Giannis as Greece’s flag-bearer at the Paris Games

Lockheed Martin welcomes Greece to F-35 program

Dendias confirms Greece has signed LOA for F-35 acquisition

Turkey returns $5bn Saudi deposit in show of economic confidence

Turkey ramps up tensions in the Aegean

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 08:55:33 +0000

This week saw tensions between Greece and Turkey reach levels we have not seen since 2022 in the Aegean as Turkey sent its warships into an area south of the Greek islands of Kassos and Karpathos. The ratcheting up of tensions followed Turkish President Erdogan’s hardline statements on Cyprus this weekend and his calls for Prime Minister Mitsotakis to put Defense Minister Dendias “in his place.” Constantinos Filis, the director of the Institute of Global Affairs and a professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to look into whether we are seeing a gradual return of tensions in the Aegean after more than a year of calm.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greek, Turkish ships face off in the Aegean, but no hostile engagement

Italian research vessel returning to Crete after completing operation

Greece must get an important role in the Commission, prime minister tells von der Leyen

Experts call for urgent conservation strategy as Crete faces water shortages

After Losing Crops to Drought, Sicily Fears Losing Tourism, Too

Armenia rocked by protests over concessions to Azerbaijan and Turkey

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 19:24:37 +0000

A few months ago, thousands of Armenians took to the streets in anti-government protests calling on Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to resign. Protesters, led by Archbishop Galstanyan, have blasted Pashinyan for what they see as endless concessions being made to Azerbaijan and Turkey with nothing to show for it in return. Amberin Zaman, Al-Monitor’s chief correspondent covering major stories on the Middle East and North Africa who has covered conflicts in Iraq, Syria and the South Caucasus, joins me to look into these protests and break down what’s at stake in the region as Azerbaijan, backed by Turkey, continues to demand further concessions from Armenia.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Archbishop seeking Armenian PM’s ouster over concessions to Turkey, Azerbaijan down but not out

Diplomatic efforts to decrease tensions as Turkey deploys warships near Kasos

Tensions rise again in the Aegean

PM: Progress, lost chances in past 50 yrs

The rise of the Athens Riviera

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 17:26:38 +0000

The Athens Riviera - a 60 kilometer shoreline spanning from Piraeus to Sounio - is currently undergoing a major rejuvenation, attracting both local and foreign investors. This transformation includes mega-projects like the Ellinikon at the former Athens airport which is touted as the largest real estate project in Europe and promises to be a “smart” city. Eleni Varvitsioti, the Financial Times correspondent for Greece and Cyprus, joins Thanos Davelis to look into the rise of the Athens Riviera and explore how major investments and projects along the Athenian coastline are poised to transform it, marking a new chapter for the Greek capital.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The audacious rise of the Athens Riviera

Erdoğan dashes hopes for resumption of Cyprus talks

Erdogan criticizes Defense Minister Dendias, calls for Mitsotakis to ‘put him in his place’

Ethnic Greek politician returns to prison in Albania after attending European Parliament opening

The 50 year occupation of Cyprus and the US failure to call a spade a spade

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 20 Jul 2024 09:09:25 +0000

50 years ago, Turkey launched its invasion of Cyprus. Since then, tens of thousands of Turkish troops have occupied over one third of the island. Unfortunately, the US still fails to use the word “occupation” to describe this ongoing violation of international law in Cyprus. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what this failure to speak the truth has meant for efforts to resolve the Cyprus problem, and whether the State Department is ready to right this 50 year wrong.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greek PM calls for unified Cyprus on 50th anniversary of 1974 invasion

Cyprus’ “Oxi” Day

Erdogan leads a grand spectacle and provocation in occupied territories

Big Turkish presence in occupied Cyprus to test detente with Greece

Greece issues high fire risk alert amid ongoing blazes

Temperatures expected to remain high until Monday

Archaeological site opening hours adjusted for weekend due to heatwave

50 years later: Turkey's invasion and occupation of Cyprus remains an open wound

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 08:38:18 +0000

On July 20th, 1974, Turkey launched its first invasion of Cyprus. 50 years later, tens of thousands of Turkish troops continue to illegally occupy the northern part of Cyprus, splitting the island in two. Alexis Papachelas, the editor in chief of Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this dark anniversary, the importance of revisiting this moment in history - whether in Athens, Nicosia, or even Washington, DC - with clear eyes, and explore whether there is still a window of opportunity for a solution.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The time of hard and final decisions

Let’s not forget to whom we owe a debt

Turkish parliament passes resolution calling for recognition of occupied northern Cyprus

Ursula von der Leyen wins second 5-year term as European Commission president

In fear of war and Trump, Europe takes no chances

Greek support for Ukraine, a new military aid deal, and Russian anger

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 08:22:49 +0000

Since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Greece has stood by Ukraine, a decision that angered Moscow. Athens and Kyiv are now negotiating a 10-year assistance agreement. John Psaropoulos, an independent journalist based in Athens and Al Jazeera’s Southeast Europe correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to look into the deal Athens is negotiating with Kyiv, break down how Greece has become a critical piece of the puzzle when looking at Western support for Ukraine, and look at why Russian anger over Greece’s decision to support Ukraine has not swayed Greek public opinion.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Russian anger builds as Greece prepares a military deal with Ukraine

Greek navy extends advisory to curb Russian oil ship-to-ship transfers, sources say

Turkish F-16 modernization program encounters roadblocks

Turkey to Pare Back $23 Billion Deal for F-16 Jets With US

From the Baltic to the Aegean: Discovering coastal ecosystems in Europe

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 10:35:09 +0000

The Tara Ocean Foundation has come to be known worldwide as a leader when it comes to promoting the well-being of our oceans, and its ship, the Tara, is currently docked in Greece, wrapping up a scientific expedition to better understand the biodiversity and ecosystems along Europe’s coastlines. Thanos Davelis was able to tour the ship and see its work up close this week in Athens, and is joined on our podcast by Romain Troublé, the General Director of the Tara Ocean Foundation, to look at the Tara’s mission in Greece, and discuss the broader impact this research can have for our oceans and seas.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Η Ελλάδα, τελευταία στάση της πρώτης πανευρωπαϊκής αποστολής για τις ανθρώπινες επιπτώσεις στις θάλασσες

Traversing European Coastlines

Integrating the ocean into the climate regime: the Ocean & Climate Platform’s challenge

Environmental pollution caused by microplastics: the example of mermaid tears

Greece restricts outdoor work as temperatures soar again

PM hints at electricity allowances

Power subsidies in August

North Macedonia’s compliance with Prespa in the spotlight (Replay)

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 08:30:34 +0000

Last week HALC sounded the alarm over North Macedonia’s adherence to the Prespa Agreement, launching a letter and petition to the State Department urging it to remind Skopje that international agreements are binding - not optional - and that there will be consequences. North Macedonia’s newly elected leaders have repeatedly referred to their country simply as “Macedonia” rather than the constitutional name “North Macedonia”. Given the renewed attention on this issue, we are re-sharing our discussion with Prof. James Ker-Lindsay from last month where we looked into the mixed signals Skopje is sending about the Prespa agreement, and discussed the broader risks this poses for the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

HALC Questions North Macedonia’s Prespa Agreement Compliance

Mitsotakis–Beleri: Albania must follow the European acquis

Turkey to soon wind down latest operation in northern Iraq, Erdogan says

US targets Turkey's nuclear ties to Russia

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 13 Jul 2024 10:22:58 +0000

The United States and Turkey are reportedly discussing the possibility of US companies building nuclear reactors in Turkey. This is seen as part of an effort to help Ankara move away from Russia, at the same time as Russia’s state-owned nuclear monopoly, Rosatom, is building a nuclear energy plant in Turkey at Akkuyu. While Washington looks like it is dangling the possibility of cooperation in front of Ankara, Congress is preparing legislation that would sanction Rosatom that could also push the administration to impose sanctions on Turkish entities as well. Andrea Stricker, a research fellow and deputy director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies’ Nonproliferation and Biodefense Program, joins Thanos Davelis to look into these reports, and break down how this legislation could complicate US-Turkey ties.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

U.S. Considers Nuclear Cooperation With Turkey as Congress Tees Up Sanctions

Turkey, US in talks on nuclear plant projects, Turkish official says

Mitsotakis on CNN: Europe cannot rely only on US for defense

Albania’s supreme court upholds Beleri verdict

From Alexandria to Athens: Discovering Cavafy

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 08:38:57 +0000

On a narrow street in the old Greek quarter of Alexandria, the world renowned poet and writer Constantine Cavafy created some of the masterpieces that still inspire people across the world today. As of this past May, this home in Alexandria is now open to the public. Together with the Cavafy Archive in Athens, which is home to over 2,000 digitized manuscripts, with poems and handwritten notes, Cavafy’s life and work are now accessible to a global audience. Prof. Gonda Van Steen, the Koraes Chair at the Centre for Hellenic Studies and Department of Classics at King’s College London and a member of the academic committee for the Alexandria Cavafy House, joins Thanos Davelis to explore why making Cavafy widely accessible is important, and look at why his work still inspires us today.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Onassis Foundation has restored Cavafy House in Alexandria

Greek poet who inspired Forster, Hockney and Jackie Onassis emerges from the shadows

Greek PM reiterates warning to North Macedonia

Cyprus-US traveler data agreement ratified

Is the Greek summer out of reach for young Greeks?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 10:28:49 +0000

With Greece deep into its tourism season, issues of over-tourism and sustainability have largely dominated the headlines. A recent article in Kathimerini took a slightly different look at tourism, exploring how it impacts young Greeks. With the quintessential Greek summer increasingly out of reach for many in the country as they are priced out of certain locations, many young people end up taking on seasonal work only to be able to see a beach - something unthinkable for previous generations. Iliana Magra, a journalist with Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this side effect of tourism, and break down whether the Greek summer we’ve all taken for granted over the previous decades is out of reach for this generation.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Δουλεύουν σεζόν για τις βουτιές τους

Greeks priced out of vacation

Mitsotakis, Erdogan meet in Washington

A Conversation With Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis of Greece

Holguin gives Guterres her report on Cyprus problem and prospects to start talks

Diplomatic efforts intensify amidst critical juncture

The UK elections and the Parthenon Sculptures

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 08:00:41 +0000

Last week Keir Starmer led Britain’s center-left Labour Party to a historic win over the Conservative Party. Prior to the elections, in November, Starmer had indicated that if Labour won the general election he would not prevent an agreement for the return of the Parthenon Sculptures. Ioannes Chountis, an adviser in the House of Lords and a council member of the Anglo-Hellenic League, joins Thanos Davelis to break down the recent UK election results, and look at what Starmer taking over at Downing Street means for the return of the Parthenon Sculptures.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Starmer’s victory comes with constraints

The UK elections and the Parthenon Sculptures

Mitsotakis, Erdogan to meet in Washington

China Tesla rival BYD signs $1bn Turkey plant deal

Orban's ties with Putin and Erdogan a cause for concern in Greece, Cyprus, EU and NATO

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 9 Jul 2024 09:50:32 +0000

While Hungary’s Victor Orban - who currently holds the rotating presidency of the EU - is bidding to become the dominant hard-right force in the EU, he’s also raising eyebrows on the international level. His latest meeting with Russia’s President Putin and his decision to attend a meeting of the Organisation of Turkic States in Azerbaijan - which included the pseudo-state in the occupied north of Cyprus - has sparked reactions across Europe and within NATO. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Orban’s latest travels, his ties to Putin and Erdogan, and whether this is cause for concern in Athens, Nicosia, Brussels, and Washington.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Viktor Orbán’s rightwing group hits quota for recognition by EU parliament

Why the EU is outraged over Orbán’s trip to see Putin

EU foreign policy chief issues fresh rebuke to Hungary's Orban

French election aftermath and NATO summit dominate the agenda

Homegrown anti-drone system on Psara frigate proves its worth on Red Sea

UN envoy stresses need for Cypriot leadership in reconciliation efforts

Greece and Albania: From the Beleri case to people to people ties

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 5 Jul 2024 16:03:37 +0000

The case of Fredi Beleri, the convicted mayor elect of Himare who belongs to Albania’s Greek minority, has heightened tensions between Greece and Albania over the past year. A recent poll exploring Greek attitudes toward bilateral relations and their views on Albanians who have made Greece their home shows that while attitudes toward Albanian immigrants have drastically improved, assessments of the political relationship are worse. Professor Ioannis Armakolas, Senior Research Fellow and Head of the South-East Europe Programme at ELIAMEP, joins Thanos Davelis to look into the progress that has been made in Greek-Albanian relations - with a focus on the people to people ties - amid lingering challenges facing the two countries.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greek public opinion and attitudes on Albania, Albanians and Greek-Albanian relations

Albanian integration and acceptance in Greece

Berlin-Ankara ‘Grey Wolves’ row rumbles on as Germany summons Turkish envoy

Germany summons Turkish ambassador over ‘wolf’ goal celebration

Turkey's Demiral to be suspended for two games over wolf gesture

Government focus shifting to daily life

Athens and the dangers of heat

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 4 Jul 2024 06:13:43 +0000

Last month was the hottest June ever experienced in Athens, at least since records began over 150 years ago. In fact, eight of the hottest 10 Junes ever recorded in Athens were during the last 20 years and four of those were in the last decade alone. This is having clear consequences for the city and its inhabitants, as rising temperatures and protracted heatwaves, beyond impacting daily life, also pose a number of health risks. Eleni Myrivili, the UN Chief Heat Officer working with UN-Habitat and the Arsht Rock Resilience Center at the Atlantic Council and the former Chief Resilience Officer and deputy mayor for Athens, joins Thanos Davelis to break down the challenges Athens is up against, explore the efforts to build urban heat resilience, and look at whether Athens can serve as an example to other cities.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Athens sizzles with hottest June on record

Building Urban Heat Resilience: The Athens Case Study

Hellenic Air Force receives 20th upgraded F-16 Viper

Syrians attack Turkish troops after anti-migrant riots

Protests and arrests as anti-Syrian riots rock Turkey

With Fists and Knives, Mobs Attack Syrian Refugees in Turkey

Mitsotakis under fire as criticism within the party mounts

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 3 Jul 2024 10:07:40 +0000

This week kicked off with two former prime ministers and leaders of New Democracy - Antonis Samaras and Konstantinos Karamanlis - launching maybe the most severe criticism of Prime Minister Mitsotakis and his leadership that we’ve heard so far, touching on foreign and domestic policy. Their criticism comes amid broader political uncertainty among Greece’s leading parties following disappointing results in the European elections. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder of Macropolis.gr, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what these critiques mean for Prime Minister Mitsotakis and whether they could impact policy both at home and abroad.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

PM comes under fire from predecessors

Mitsotakis's predecessors launch caustic attacks against PM's leadership, government policies

Italian ship under Ankara’s watchful eye

Firefighters battle wildfires on 2 Greek islands as premier warns of a dangerous summer

Turkey’s goal in the ongoing Lebanon crisis

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 2 Jul 2024 06:32:17 +0000

With the US in the midst of an intense diplomatic push to prevent a war between Israel and Hezbollah forces in Lebanon, Turkey has also waded into the mix. While it’s still unclear what Turkey is looking to achieve should a conflict erupt, it looks like a policy is taking shape, especially after Ankara followed up on Hezbollah’s threats to Cyprus with its own “warning”. Sinan Ciddi joins Thanos Davelis to look into this latest “warning” from Ankara to Cyprus, dig into the Turkey-Hezbollah connections, and look at what role Ankara will likely play in any potential conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Will Turkey Work With Hezbollah?

Turkey Should Remain on FATF Grey List

North Macedonia’s PM calls Prespa Agreement a ‘reality’

Four MPs enter PASOK’s leadership race in election countdown

Two to challenge Androulakis for PASOK leadership

Uncertain times for Greece's political leaders

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 29 Jun 2024 07:18:26 +0000

With SYRIZA on the brink of civil war, PASOK facing a new leadership fight, and New Democracy still reeling from the aftermath of the European elections, it seems like a period of uncertainty has set in among Greece’s top political parties. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the challenges facing Greece’s political leaders amid the backdrop of broader uncertainty across the West, from the upcoming elections in France to the Presidential race in the US.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Uncertain times and the actions of political leaders

Turkey tracks cable work in Cyprus EEZ

Greek parliament approves military procurement programs

Turkey gets Ecumenical Patriarch removed from Ukraine Peace Summit statement

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 10:06:59 +0000

Earlier this month, the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew - along with many other countries and organizations - attended the Ukraine Peace Summit. Nearly 80 countries issued a statement calling for the “territorial integrity” of Ukraine to be the basis for any peace agreement to end Russia’s two-year war. The Ecumenical Patriarch’s signature was originally on that document. Then an outraged Turkey intervened, getting the Ecumenical Patriarchate’s signature removed. Bruce Clark, who writes on European affairs and religion for The Economist, has played an active role in the Ecumenical Patriarchate’s environmental initiatives, and is the author of Twice A Stranger: How Mass Expulsion Forged Modern Greece and Turkey, joins Thanos Davelis to look into what this story says about the continued pressure the Ecumenical Patriarch is under.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Patriarchate removed from Ukraine summit statement following Turkish protests

SYRIZA on the brink of civil war

Von der Leyen, Costa and Kallas bag EU top jobs

European Leaders Name Top E.U. Officials, Opting for Stability

A new six-day workweek in Greece?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 20:35:33 +0000

Greece is moving toward a six-day workweek, with regulations coming into effect on July 1 that make this possible for certain industries. The government hopes this move, which comes as other Western countries and companies are considering shorter office hours, will help deal with a labor shortage and, among other things, fight black market labor. Dr. Jens Bastian, an expert with the German Institute for International and Security Affairs in Berlin with a deep knowledge of Greece’s economy, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this decision to extend the workweek, and break down whether it can solve the problems the government hopes to tackle.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Can Greece's new six-day workweek be a model for others?

Higher salaries have stagnated

As Putin menaces and Trump hovers, NATO chooses Rutte as next leader

Rutte says NATO ‘cornerstone of collective security’ as he is named chief

Tech giants eye project in Cyprus

Over-tourism and its impacts on Greek society

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 09:45:28 +0000

With another summer tourism season in full swing, the question of over-tourism and sustainability - particularly in tourist hotspots like Athens and the Cyclades islands - is once again at the forefront. It seems the government is also beginning to address these concerns, with Prime Minister Mitsotakis announcing plans to limit the number of cruise ships visiting popular islands. Yannis Palaiologos, a journalist at large with Kathimerini and the co-editor of the "Sustainable Cyclades" project, joins Thanos Davelis to look into the latest warnings about over-tourism and sustainability, the response from Athens and locals, and its impact on the social fabric of the country - particularly on the islands.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

«Ο υπερτουρισμός διαλύει την κοινωνική συνοχή»

Anger as fireworks shot from private yacht spark forest fire in Hydra

Greece to Cap Number of Cruise Ships at Its Most Popular Islands

Barcelona to ban apartment rentals to tourists in bid to cut housing costs

Greek EU lawmaker to remain in Albanian prison

Rama pushing it with Athens over Beleri

Diplomatic sources in Athens respond to Turkish FM’s comments over Greece, Cyprus and Gaza

North Macedonia's mixed signals about the Prespa agreement

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 07:18:43 +0000

All eyes in Athens were on North Macedonia this weekend, as its new government and prime minister were sworn in. While Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski referred to his country as “North Macedonia” when taking his oath, his statements regarding the Prespa Agreement have not been reassuring, and Greece has warned that the a la carte implementation of Prespa is a violation of the agreement. Professor James Ker-Lindsay, who has worked extensively on the EU, the Balkans and Southeast Europe, joins Thanos Davelis to look into the mixed signals the new government in Skopje is sending about the Prespa agreement, and discuss the broader risks this poses for the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Athens ready to alert EU over Prespa Agreement violation

Will North Macedonia become Orban’s Balkan gateway?

New North Macedonia PM describes country’s constitutional name as ‘shameful’

Albanian court to decide on appeal of jailed ethnic Greek mayor-elect, MEP

In Greece, Another Tourist Found Dead Amid Scorching Heat Wave

City of Athens braces for fresh heatwave

Greece's mission in the Red Sea

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 21:36:43 +0000

Greece sent its frigate “Psara” to the Red Sea this week to join Operation Aspides, the EU’s mission in the Red Sea to protect merchant ships from Houthi attacks. The Psara is replacing the Hydra, which completed a three month deployment in the Red Sea, at a time when the Houthis are escalating their campaign. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Greece’s role in Operation Aspides and the risks posed by continued Houthi attacks.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Visit of the Minister of National Defence Nikos Dendias to the Frigate “PSARA”

Frigate bound for Red Sea will have better anti-drone system

Salvage firm confirms sinking of Greek-owned Tutor struck by Houthis

Houthi Attacks Causing More Damage in the Red Sea, Merchant Traffic Through Suez Canal Down More than 50%

EU foreign affairs chief expresses solidarity with Cyprus over Hezbollah threats

Hezbollah threats against Cyprus are ‘just beyond me,’ says State Department spokesperson

From problem to solution: Cyprus in the middle of the world’s crises

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 20:20:31 +0000

Days after the US and Cyprus announced the launch of a strategic dialogue, a historic step that takes the bilateral relationship to a new level and highlights Cyprus’s strategic role in the region, Hezbollah’s leader issued a threat against Cyprus amid rising tensions with Israel. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to break down Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos’ trip to Washington and the importance of the strategic dialogue, and look into Hezbollah’s threats against Cyprus.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Why pick on us? Cyprus bemused by Hezbollah threats

Turning Cyprus from a problem into a solution

The small country in the middle of the world’s crises

US, Cyprus embark on strategic dialogue that officials say demonstrates closest-ever ties

PM discusses high prices with European market commissioner

Greece's shores at risk amid rising sea levels and coastal erosion

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 09:31:16 +0000

Over the past 30 years, Greece has lost some 250 square kilometers of its beaches. This is expected to rise as climate change and rising temperatures continue to push up sea levels. Experts warn Greece is in the “red zone” because measures to stabilize the country’s beaches are long overdue. Costas Synolakis, a professor of civil and environmental engineering at the Technical University of Crete and the University of Southern California and a preeminent authority on the impact of natural hazards, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what coastal erosion means not just for Greece’s shores, but also for the Greeks living in coastal communities, and break down what steps Greece can take.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece in the ‘red zone’ of coastal erosion, warns expert

'Unprecedented': Why Hezbollah threatened to attack Cyprus

Hezbollah head threatens Cyprus in televised address

Summer wildfires plague Greece and Turkey. The worst ones have been contained

Heightened inferno risk on Thursday and Friday

The ongoing crisis in Greece's center left

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 08:48:03 +0000

The aftershocks of the European elections are still being felt in Greece, as none of the big three parties reached their stated goals. The country’s attention has turned to the center left, particularly PASOK, where several party officials are calling for a leadership change. At the same time, there are growing internal discussions in PASOK and SYRIZA regarding forming a coalition. Political scientist and expert Panos Koliastasis joins Thanos Davelis to look at the crisis brewing in Greece’s center left, and break down what it means for Greece’s political scene.

Panos Koliastasis is an adjunct lecturer in politics at the Hellenic Open University, and the author of the book "Permanent campaigning in Greece in times of crisis: the Samaras, Tsipras and Mitsotakis premierships".

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Election aftershocks dominate the agenda, focus on the center-left

Some 83% of SYRIZA and PASOK voters in favour of left-wing coalition, poll finds

PASOK must give voice to the party base

Greek island searches for missing tourists intensify amid hiking deaths

US tourist found dead on Greek island during heatwave

Greece to set up its first sovereign wealth fund, reform posting, bus services

Kavala: The Greek port city where West meets East

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 09:58:09 +0000

In the northern Greek port city of Kavala, an ultra-luxury Greek hotel owned by Egypt and built by Mohammad Ali Pasha has become a base to not only explore Kavala, but also Greece’s historic ties to the Balkans, the Eastern Mediterranean, and the broader Middle East. Sean Mathews, a Greece-based journalist covering the broader region, joins Thanos Davelis to break down how Kavala can serve as a base for visitors to explore northern Greece and Thrace, which is increasingly on the radar of policymakers in Washington and Brussels, while reflecting on Greece’s rich ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Islamic, and Ottoman history.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

'The last stop of Europe': In a remote Greek port, live like a pasha in an Ottoman palace

Cyprus and US announce launch of strategic dialogue

Election aftershocks dominate the agenda, focus on the center-left

Former minister Pappas advocates SYRIZA-PASOK electoral alliance

Greece deals with first blistering heat wave of the summer

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 15 Jun 2024 08:58:37 +0000

Greece and the whole region have been hit by an unseasonably early - and intense - heat wave, prompting warnings, fire hazards, closures of schools and archaeological sites, and even leading to deaths. In the meantime, with a number of tourists reported either missing or found dead after hiking in the heat, experts have expressed fears that tourists are not fully aware or being properly informed of the risks posed by overexertion in the searing heat. Nikos Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the first major heat wave of the summer, and look at how this is impacting everything from daily life in Athens to tourism.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Visitors to Greece appear ill informed about heatwave risk, warn rescuers

Greek PM Mitsotakis reshuffles Cabinet after election disappointment

Greece to Cap Number of Cruise Ships at Its Most Popular Islands

Why Turkey's occupation of Cyprus is a threat to the US and EU

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 09:28:44 +0000

In a month we’ll be commemorating the 50th anniversary of Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus. For five decades, Turkish troops have occupied the northern part of the island. With this dark anniversary on the horizon, Michael Rubin, the director of policy analysis at the Middle East Forum and a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how Turkey’s continued occupation of the northern part of Cyprus - which has turned the area into a terror safe-haven and money laundering hub - presents a grave and growing threat to U.S. and European security.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Northern Cyprus Has Become A Terror Safe-Haven

Party cadres challenge PASOK’s leader

PASOK MP: ‘We have to see what went wrong’ in EU elections

Ankara plans Aegean research in Turkish waters

Ankara widens Greek-Turkish agenda

Has Washington overcome its fear of "losing Turkey"?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 08:09:15 +0000

Following decades of worry, have US policymakers finally overcome their fear of “losing Turkey”, coming to terms with a Turkey that is neither friend nor foe? Nicholas Danforth, an editor at War on the Rocks and the author of The Remaking of Republican Turkey: Memory and Modernity since the Fall of the Ottoman Empire, joins Thanos Davelis to answer this question and break down his latest piece in War on the Rocks, “Coming To Terms With The Loss Of Turkey”. We also explore how this shift impacts the way Washington approaches Ankara and the broader region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Coming To Terms With The Loss Of Turkey

4,000-year-old Greek hilltop site mystifies archaeologists. It could spell trouble for new airport

Greece plans early repayment of €8 billion of bailout loans

The far right, New Democracy's "pyrrhic victory" and the battle over Greece's center left

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 18:37:36 +0000

The European elections this past weekend saw far right parties gain ground in a number of countries. Greece was not an exception, with the party Greek Solution more than doubling its support since the last elections. Beyond the far right’s gains, the ruling New Democracy did not hit its target, describing the results as a “pyrrhic victory”, while the battle for second place between SYRIZA and PASOK proved inconclusive. Meanwhile, in Cyprus, a 24 year old YouTuber made political waves finishing third. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini's English Edition and Politico's Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest analysis from Athens.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Where did all the far-right votes come from?

Nine new hands and 12 old ones heading to Strasbourg

SYRIZA members urge overture to center-left parties following election results

PM rules out snap election, hints at reshuffle

Greece sends aid to raging Cyprus wildfire

Houses burnt down in out-of-control Paphos wildfire

Far right makes gains in European elections

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 19:22:43 +0000

Sunday’s European elections saw not only a strengthened far right emerge, but also saw French President Macron call for snap parliamentary elections in response to the victory for the far-right National Rally led by Marine Le Pen. Center-right and far-right parties are now set to take the largest number of seats in the most populous nations. Max Bergmann, the director of the Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program and the Stuart Center in Euro-Atlantic and Northern European Studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), joins Thanos Davelis with the main takeaways from the European elections while looking at what this means for transatlantic relations.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

In E.U. Elections, the Center Holds, but the Far Right Still Wreaks Havoc

Macron bets the house in election to break far-right momentum in France

ND, SYRIZA and PASOK fall short in European Parliament election

Government rues ‘Pyrrhic victory’

YouTube prankster voted in as Cyprus MEP

MEPs: Akel, Disy big losers, victory for Elam and YouTuber

What do Greeks believe in 2024?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 8 Jun 2024 09:51:44 +0000

diaNEOsis, which has been monitoring the attitudes and perceptions of Greek society for a decade, just published an all-encompassing three part survey looking at what Greeks believe on a variety of issues - from climate change to politics, trust, and the economy. Fay Makantasi, the director of research at diaNEOsis, joins Thanos Davelis to break down the key findings from this survey and its broader implications, including on the climate, perceptions of the EU, social trust, and more.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

New anxieties grip Greeks in 2024

Greeks do not trust each other, survey shows

Parties seeking to make their mark

Turkey moves closer to acquiring F-16 jets

Kremlin welcomes Turkey's reported desire to join BRICS

Turkey's nuclear energy ambitions and its regional impact

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 7 Jun 2024 08:06:59 +0000

Turkey is set to join the nuclear energy club, with the Akkuyu plant expected to go online at the end of the year. It has plans for two more nuclear energy sites. Given the strong link between nuclear energy programs and the proliferation of nuclear weapons, many are asking whether there is a risk here as well. Eleni Ekmektsioglou, a postdoctoral fellow in Technology and International Security at the University of California’s Institute on Global Conflict and Cooperation and an adjunct professor at the George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Turkey’s nuclear energy ambitions and what they mean for regional stability.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey’s Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant and What it Means for Regional Stability and Nuclear Proliferation Concerns

Greece elected to UN Security Council as non-permanent member

Mitsotakis inspects Greek frigates in French shipyard

Mitsotakis in call for defence of freedom and democracy at D-Day commemoration

Turkish official says there was no "firman" allowing Elgin to remove Parthenon Sculptures

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 6 Jun 2024 08:37:07 +0000

The fight for the return and reunification of the Parthenon Sculptures is back in the spotlight after a Turkish official said that no "firman" - an Ottoman legal document - exists that legitimizes Lord Elgin’s actions to break up the sculptures and take them to Britain. Greece’s culture minister said the comments strengthen Greece’s argument that the sculptures were illegally removed. Dr. Irene Stamatoudi, a professor of law at the University of Nicosia and a former member of the Ministry of Culture’s Advisory Committee for the Parthenon Sculptures, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how these latest developments impact both the efforts to reunite the Sculptures and the British Museum.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece is buoyed by a Turkish official’s comments about Parthenon sculptures taken by Britain

British Museum seeks ‘new relationship’ with Greece amid Parthenon sculptures dispute

ECB to approve Greek banks' request to resume dividend payment after 16 years, sources say

Cyprus president says a buffer zone splitting the island won’t become another migrant route

Greek teams win big in Europe, but can Greece build on this momentum?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 5 Jun 2024 10:43:45 +0000

The end of May saw Greek sports teams reach the peak of Europe, with Panathinaikos kicking off the celebrations by winning a seventh EuroLeague basketball title, and Olympiakos following up and becoming the first Greek soccer team to win a European trophy. This high point comes after a year where Greek sports was in the headlines for the wrong reasons, as fan violence was in the spotlight. Alexander Kitroeff, a historian with a deep background in Greek sport, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss these historic wins, and whether they can serve as a springboard for Greek sport to build on.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Panathinaikos wins its seventh European crown

Celebrations in Greece as Olympiakos beats Fiorentina 1-0 for first European title

Greece's Super League must build on 'dream season', says league chief

The chronology of deadly fan violence in Greece

Many undecided ahead of Euro election

Sanctioned tankers pose rising environmental risk in Mediterranean, Greece says

Halki Seminary: Turkey's trail of broken promises

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 4 Jun 2024 06:05:57 +0000

Over 52 years ago Turkey shut down Halki Seminary. Since then, its doors have remained shut. According to a recent report in Karar daily, a Turkish media outlet, Ankara is considering taking steps to reopen the seminary. This isn’t the first time that we’ve heard promises from Turkey that it is going to reopen Halki - including Turkish President Erdogan’s broken promise to President Obama in 2012 - as it continues to keep the seminary’s doors shut. Georgia Logothetis, the Managing Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Turkey’s trail of broken promises on Halki and discuss her latest piece in The Aegean Monthly - “Halki Seminary held hostage”.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Halki Seminary held hostage

Turkey moves towards reopening Halki seminary, report says

Turkey signals a new military intervention in Syria if Kurdish groups hold local elections

Greece introduces digital helper app for tourists

Energy in the spotlight as East Med Gas Forum meets in Athens

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 1 Jun 2024 07:13:54 +0000

This week Greece hosted members of the East Med Gas Forum in Athens, where the focus was on existing and future gas projects in the region, the East Med’s importance when addressing concerns over energy security in the broader region, decarbonization, and the green transition. Kostis Geropoulos, the co-founder and director of Energy and Climate Policy and Security at NE Global Media, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the East Med Gas Forum’s meeting in Greece and look at the initiatives countries in the region are spearheading.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

East Med Gas Forum in Athens

Θ. Σκυλακάκης: «Κλειδί» οι συνεργασίες στην Αν. Μεσόγειο για την ενεργειακή μετάβαση

Polls find ND leading SYRIZA by over 15 points ahead of European elections

Far-right parties expected to surpass EPP in European Parliament, polls suggest

Greece denies report on migrant resettlement deal with the US

Greek debt: Is the country still vulnerable?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 31 May 2024 10:12:22 +0000

In recent years Greece’s general government debt has exceeded 350 billion euros and its debt-to-GDP ratio reached 160 per cent of GDP in 2023. Despite this, Greece has managed to fully repair its IMF loans and its economic performance has been a bright spot over the past years for the country, outperforming its Eurozone peers. Yiannis Mouzakis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, a political and economic analysis site that focuses on Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to look at Greece’s debt and whether it still puts Greece at risk.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

From default to investment grade: A brief history of Greek debt

Aid for Gaza still leaving Cyprus by sea while landing pier fixed, Cypriot official says

Day limit for short-term rentals

Turkey to teach Blue Homeland doctrine in schools

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 30 May 2024 08:33:54 +0000

This month Ankara moved to include the Blue Homeland doctrine, which expresses Ankara’s controversial maritime claims in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Aegean, in Turkish school curriculums. In the meantime, Turkish President Erdogan once again took the opportunity on May 29th, 571 years after the fall of Constantinople, to make reference to conquests of the past, tying them to his vision for today’s Turkey. Ryan Gingeras joins Thanos Davelis to discuss Turkey’s decision to teach the Blue Homeland in Turkish schools, its wider ramifications, and explore the link between the rhetoric of conquest we’ve become used to hearing from Erdogan and policies like Blue Homeland.

Ryan Gingeras is a professor in the Department of National Security Affairs at the Naval Postgraduate School and an expert on Turkish, Balkan, and Middle East history. The views expressed in this interview are his own and do not reflect the views of the US government.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Blue Homeland doctrine planted in Turkish schools

Libya maritime deal also in Turkish schools

Turkey celebrates 1453 Constantinople fall

Olympiakos triumphs in Conference League final

Panathinaikos wins its seventh European crown

Greece to go ahead with plans for Aegean marine park, PM says

Has Turkey's standing on the international scene diminished?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 29 May 2024 08:57:58 +0000

Over the last year, a number of regional crises - from Ukraine to the Middle East - have taken the international spotlight off Turkey and President Erdogan. Combined with a number of sharp divergences with Western partners over Ankara’s contradictory foreign policy ambitions and rule-of-law deficiencies, it looks like Turkey’s overall standing on the international scene has diminished. That’s the case Ambassador Marc Pierini, who joins Thanos Davelis on our show today, makes in his latest piece, “Turkey’s Dwindling International Role”.

Ambassador Marc Pierini is a senior fellow at Carnegie Europe, where his research focuses on developments in the Middle East and Turkey from a European perspective. He previously served as EU ambassador and head of delegation to Turkey (2006–2011).

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey’s Dwindling International Role

PM Mitsotakis meets with Chicago Council on Global Affairs delegation

Defense minister meets with Chicago Council of Global Affairs

Nikola Dimitrov: ‘The bridge might collapse without care’

Edi Rama's charm offensive and ethnic Greek properties in Albania

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 28 May 2024 10:07:27 +0000

Late last week Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama was in the ethnic Greek town of Himare, where he announced the restitution of some 400 titles to homes in the area to residents who have been suing the Albanian state for more than 30 years. Rama’s attempt to reconcile with the Greeks of Himare comes as the town’s mayor elect, Fredi Beleri, remains imprisoned, and for many this gesture does not go far enough in addressing the longstanding and serious issue of minority property rights. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to break down Edi Rama’s charm offensive toward the Greeks of Himare, the issue of property rights facing the Greek minority, and more.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Rama theatrics with ethnic Greek properties

Ankara ‘threatens’ own marine parks

Skrekas: We will keep fighting against inflation

SYRIZA, PASOK, and the battle for second place

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 25 May 2024 09:33:36 +0000

With New Democracy set to cement its political dominance in the upcoming European elections, the battle for second place is heating up as SYRIZA and PASOK’s leaders turn up the heat to see who will take on the leading role on Greece’s center-left after the elections. The fight for second place is also viewed by many as a battle of survival for SYRIZA’s Stefanos Kasselakis and PASOK’s Nikos Androulakis, as a poor showing in June could raise questions about their leadership. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, a political and economic analysis site that focuses on Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the upcoming elections and the battle for second place that’s unfolding.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Centre-left parties jockey for leading role in post-election landscape

Polls provide little comfort for opposition parties ahead of EP elections

Fighting cost-of-living crisis is government’s top priority, PM says

Has Europe already reached its demographic tipping point?

Is North Macedonia's nationalist turn putting Prespa at risk?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 24 May 2024 08:32:47 +0000

After decades of negotiations and acrimony, Athens and Skopje signed the Prespa Agreement in 2018 that effectively put an end to the Macedonia name dispute and opened the way for North Macedonia to join NATO and start the process toward EU membership. Since the election win of the VMRO-DPMNE in early May, however, its leadership has taken a nationalist turn that could put this deal at risk. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English edition, joins Thanos Davelis to look into what he has called a destabilizing nationalism from Skopje, and break down what the broader risks are for not just North Macedonia and Greece, but the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Destabilizing nationalism in North Macedonia

Poland and Greece urge EU to create common air shield, says Polish PM

Von der Leyen backs Polish, Greek calls for EU air defense shield

Mitsotakis tells Zelenskyy Greece will continue to support Kyiv

Ukraine renews military aid request

Turkey's inflation crisis rages a year into Erdogan's economic turnaround

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 23 May 2024 08:17:57 +0000

Since an economic overhaul in June last year, Turkey’s central bank has increased its main interest rate to 50 per cent from 8.5 per cent in an effort to tame rampant inflation. Despite this, and other steps, Turks continue to face nearly 70 per cent inflation rates, high borrowing costs and cuts in measures that in recent years helped soften the impact of rising prices. Almost a year since these economic overhauls, Ayla Jean Yackley, an Istanbul-based journalist covering Turkey with stories in The Financial Times, Politico, and other major outlets, joins me to look at Turkey’s inflation crisis, Erdogan’s sweeping economic overhauls, and how this is impacting Turks every day.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey’s inflation crisis rages a year into economic turnaround

Party leaders are taking center stage

Parties targeting crucial undecided vote

Greek PM rules out ‘full-package solution’ with Turkey

Is the hype around Turkey's Kaan fighter justified?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 22 May 2024 09:03:04 +0000

Earlier this year Turkey completed the maiden test flight of its prototype Kaan fighter, a development celebrated in Ankara. Is this the groundbreaking achievement Turkish media is claiming, and what does it mean for Turkey’s defense industry? Rebecca Lucas, a senior analyst in defense and security with RAND Europe, and Stuart Dee, a research leader in the defense and security research group at RAND Europe, join Thanos Davelis to look into the Kaan fighter jet, break down whether the hype around it is justified, and see how it fits into the broader aims of Turkish defense-industrial investment.

Rebecca Lucas is a senior analyst in defense and security with RAND Europe and is heavily involved with RAND’s Centre for Defence Economics and Acquisition. Her research focuses on the defense-industrial base, acquisition policy, and supply-chain analysis, as well as a regional focus on Turkey.

Stuart Dee is a research leader in the defense and security research group at RAND Europe, focusing primarily on defense economics and acquisition, as well as issues relating to the U.K. industrial base and defense exports. He is also a member of RAND’s Centre for Defence Economics and Acquisition.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Crowning Achievement? Kaan And The Turkish Defense Industry

Greek PM warns ‘isolated’ Skopje over compliance with name deal

Athens awaits next move by Skopje

Cyprus LNG terminal talks go on

Charges dropped against nine Egyptians over 2023 migrant shipwreck off Greece

EU green lights landmark migration pact ahead of elections

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 20 May 2024 16:35:47 +0000

Last week the EU gave the final green light to a landmark overhaul of its migration and asylum policies, ending more than eight years of efforts to rewrite the rulebook. This was followed up by 15 EU states - including frontline states like Greece, Italy, and Cyprus - demanding further measures to tighten the bloc’s asylum policy, including sending asylum seekers to third countries. These moves come with European elections less than a month away. Angeliki Dimitriadi, a Senior Research Fellow and Head of the Migration Programme at ELIAMEP, and Thanos Davelis met at College Year in Athens to discuss these latest developments on migration and asylum, and look at how they may impact the upcoming elections.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

EU signs off on sweeping migration overhaul ahead of elections

15 EU states demand plan to send asylum seekers to third countries

Greek, Egyptian FMs affirm strategic relationship

PM: North Macedonia should use constitutional name everywhere

Mickoski doing his sponsors’ bidding

Erdogan puts his Hamas connection back in the limelight

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 18 May 2024 07:46:55 +0000

This week kicked off with Turkish President Erdogan stating that 1000 Hamas members were being treated in Turkey, a comment that Turkish officials tried to walk back, saw The Times report that Hamas may have been planning to establish a base in Turkey, and culminated with the Turkish leader suggesting that Israel would “set its sights” on Turkey if it defeated Hamas in Gaza. Expert Sinan Ciddi joins Thanos Davelis to look into Erdogan’s latest comments on Hamas, the recent report in The Times, and the questions this raises about the Erdogan-Hamas connection.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Secret Document Discovered in Gaza Reveals Hamas Plan to Establish Base in Turkey

Erdogan defends Hamas, says members are being treated in Turkish hospitals

Secret papers reveal Hamas plan to set up base in Turkey

Turkey dials up Gaza diplomacy as cease-fire talks hit 'impasse'

Gov’t to table F-35 letter of acceptance in Parliament

EU ministers to strengthen migration policies

Holding Turkey accountable for 2017 Sheridan Circle attack

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 17 May 2024 09:13:11 +0000

Over 70 members of Congress sent a letter to the Biden administration this week, urging it to hold Turkey accountable for the 2017 attack by Erdogan’s security guards against American protesters at Sheridan Circle. Members of Congress are calling on the State Department to press President Erdogan and Turkish authorities on this issue as an essential element for relations between Washington and Ankara. Andreas Akaras, an attorney with the law firm Bregman, Berbert, Schwartz & Gilday who is part of the team representing the victims of the Sheridan Circle attacks, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this latest development and break down what it means for the ongoing case for justice for the victims.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Over 70 lawmakers urge Biden to hold Turkey accountable for Sheridan Circle violence

Sarbanes and Bipartisan Group of 70+ Colleagues Urge State Department to Hold Turkey Accountable for 2017 Sheridan Circle Attack

Skopje ups ante, widening rift with Athens

Aid for Gaza will soon flow from pier project just finished by US military

From TikTok to Edi Rama: European elections heat up in Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 16 May 2024 09:36:06 +0000

With European elections on the horizon, Greek political leaders are not only hitting the road to campaign across the country, but are also increasingly leaning into social media platforms in their search for voters. While New Democracy will likely maintain its dominant position in Greek politics, attention is turning to SYRIZA and PASOK, and their battle for second place. International developments are also a factor in these elections, as issues between Greece and Albania have come to the forefront. Nikos Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the ongoing social media battle ahead of these elections, what’s at stake for Greece’s political leaders, and how this election is also taking on an international character.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Hunting for support on social media

Would third place spell trouble for PASOK?

A leading power in a difficult neighborhood

Greece will not ratify memorandums until Skopje complies with Prespa deal

Over 70 lawmakers urge Biden to hold Turkey accountable for Sheridan Circle violence

20 years later: Revisiting the Annan Plan for Cyprus

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 15 May 2024 08:49:32 +0000

This July, Turkey’s illegal occupation of the northern part of Cyprus will hit the 50-year mark. 2024 also marks another Cypriot “anniversary”, the 2004 rejection of the Annan Plan for the reunification of Cyprus. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why the rejection of the Annan plan needs to be revisited and its historic significance reconsidered. We also look into other regional developments - from Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ meeting with Turkish President Erdogan to the latest diplomatic crisis with North Macedonia.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

CYPRUS’ “OXI” DAY

Greece-Turkey: The modus operandi and the way ahead

Erdogan rebukes Greek PM for calling Hamas ‘terrorists,’ says 1,000+ members being treated in Turkey

HALC calls on USCIRF to reclassify the Republic of Turkey as a Country of Particular Concern

EU to deploy hundreds of firefighters to vulnerable states ahead of wildfire season

North Macedonia's new president triggers diplomatic spat with Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 13 May 2024 20:39:42 +0000

North Macedonia’s new president, Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova, has sparked a diplomatic crisis with Greece following her decision during her swearing in ceremony to refer to her country simply as “Macedonia” rather than the constitutional name “North Macedonia.” Prime Minister Mitsotakis slammed her decision, warning that further violations of the Prespes Agreement could jeopardize Skopje’s ambitions for EU membership. John Psaropoulos, an independent journalist based in Athens and Al Jazeera’s Southeast Europe correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this latest diplomatic spat and its broader implications for Athens, Skopje, the Prespes Agreement, and the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

North Macedonia's new president reignites a spat with Greece at her inauguration ceremony

Greek PM slams Siljanovska-Davkova’s ‘Macedonia’ reference

North Macedonia President claims right to use ‘Macedonia’ despite international backlash

Von der Leyen rebukes use of ‘Macedonia’ by country’s new President

Mitsotakis says Turkey and Greece should increase cooperation and contacts

Turkey’s Erdogan meets Greek PM, sees ‘no unsolvable problems’ in ties

Demarche lodged to UNESCO over Chora monastery

Europe's radical right and the upcoming elections

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 11 May 2024 07:21:51 +0000

Europe’s political landscape is changing dramatically, with the latest polls predicting that far right parties will gain across the EU in the upcoming European Parliament elections. Amid concerns over the rise of the far-right, radical-right forces are already influencing EU policies. Giorgia Meloni is the prime example, with the Italian prime minister proving pivotal in shaping Europe’s agenda, from the frequent visits European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen makes to Italy to Europe’s approach to migration. Alexandra Voudouri, Kathimerini’s Brussels correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the rise of the far right and what it means for the future direction of Europe.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Hard right wants more EU power to reflect likely election gains

Just How Dangerous Is Europe’s Rising Far Right?

Giorgia Meloni and Ursula von der Leyen, the double act that is steering the EU ever rightwards

Greek PM seeks to build on better ties in Ankara

Greece to bring in Egyptian farm workers amid labor shortage

Is Erdogan facing a crisis of legitimacy?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 10 May 2024 07:13:45 +0000

Having been dealt a devastating blow in the municipal elections earlier this year, Turkish President Erdogan - who campaigned tirelessly everywhere and made this election about his rule - is now looking to bounce back. This will undoubtedly have consequences on both domestic and foreign policy. Henri Barkey, the Cohen professor of international relations at Lehigh University and an adjunct senior fellow for Middle East studies at the Council of Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what we should expect from Erdogan at home and abroad as he looks to regain the initiative.

Read Henri Barkey’s latest piece here: Erdogan’s Crisis of Legitimacy and its Consequences

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Vessel carrying aid to US-built pier off Gaza leaves Cyprus

Tourism season starts with 80,000 job vacancies

Olympiakos beats Villa again to reach Conference League final

El Kaabi’s double crushes Aston Villa hopes of comeback at Olympiakos

Turkey converts Chora into a mosque as USCIRF puts the spotlight on religious freedom

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 9 May 2024 09:16:47 +0000

Earlier this week Turkey formally opened the monastery of Chora, a former Byzantine church and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Istanbul, as a mosque. The move follows the conversion of the Hagia Sophia into a mosque in 2020, and has drawn international criticism. It also comes as the US Commission on International Religious Freedom once again recommended that Turkey be put on the special watch list for engaging in or tolerating severe violations of religious freedom. Expert Tugba Tanyieri Erdemir joins Thanos Davelis to look at what this decision will mean for Chora Church, and look at the message it sends on religious freedom, especially in light of the latest USCIRF report.

Tugba Tanyieri Erdemir is the coordinator of Anti-Defamation League's Task Force on Middle East Minorities, serves as the co-chair of the Middle East Working Group of the International Religious Freedom Roundtable, and is an expert on religious cultural heritage.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey formally opens another former Byzantine-era church as a mosque

USCIRF 2024 Annual Report

North Macedonia elects first woman president, EU-leaning coalition

Greece extends naval advisory to deter Russian oil ship-to-ship transfers

Greece disrupts sanctions busting oil transfers off its coast

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 8 May 2024 09:31:28 +0000

Over the past two years an area south of Greece’s Peloponnese had become a major location to circumvent sanctions against Russian oil exports. It looks like Greece has now found a way to disrupt these operations - taking place in international waters - after the Greek navy blocked off the area for naval exercises. A factor in this story is the fact that Greece has not extended its territorial waters in the area to 12 nautical miles, a move that Turkey says is a cause for war. Professor Kostas Ifantis joins Thanos Davelis to discuss how Greece is taking steps to block these oil transfers, examine the question of Greece’s territorial seas, and look ahead at the upcoming meeting between Prime Minister Mitsotakis and Turkish President Erdogan.

Kostas Ifantis is a Professor of International Relations at the Department of International, European and Area Studies at Panteion University of Athens, and has previously served as Director for Research at the Policy Planning Center of the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Steps to block oil transfers off Greek coast

North Macedonia holds presidential and parliamentary elections Wed

Athens wary of VMRO comeback

Finance watchdog visited Turkey ahead of 'grey list' decision

From the Baltic to the Aegean: Greece and the Three Seas Initiative

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 7 May 2024 07:28:11 +0000

Last fall Greece joined the Three Seas Initiative, which brings together 13 EU countries located between the Baltic, Black, Adriatic, and now the Aegean Seas. The Three Seas Initiative was initially founded with the economy in mind, to foster regional dialogue and boost investment, and with Greece’s addition, its diplomatic and economic pull now extends to the Mediterranean. Ian Brzezinski, who has been following this initiative since it was founded, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why the Three Seas Initiative, which now includes Greece, is so important for the region.

Ian Brzezinski leads the Brzezinski Group, a strategic advisory services firm, and serves as a Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Europe Center and Brent Scowcroft Center on Strategy and Security.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

What is the Three Seas Initiative and why is it expanding?

Greece becomes 13th member of Three Seas Initiative on EU’s eastern flank

Greece can serve as entry point for energy to the north, PM says

Turkey formally opens another former Byzantine-era church as a mosque

UN envoy returning to Cyprus for talks

The Greeks and the American diner

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 4 May 2024 08:46:41 +0000

Anyone who has visited the United States or is familiar with shows like Seinfeld will have come across a diner, a uniquely American type of restaurant. Few may know, however, that from the 1960s onward Greek-Americans came to dominate the diner restaurant scene, especially in the Northeast and the Midwest. Professor Alexander Kitroeff, one of the leading historians of the Greek-American experience, joins Thanos Davelis to talk about the American diner, its strong links to Greek immigrants, and whether the phenomenon of the Greek-American diner has a future in today’s America.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greek Diners in America’s Heartland

Athens, Ankara finalizing details of PM’s Turkey visit

Turkey halts trade with Israel over 'humanitarian tragedy' in Gaza

Greek aid to Ukraine in the spotlight

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 2 May 2024 16:46:53 +0000

The Financial Times recently reported that Greece and some other EU countries have been under pressure to send more aid to Ukraine, specifically air defense systems. Prime Minister Mitsotakis has ruled this out, citing Greece’s defense needs. Constantinos Filis, the director of the Institute of Global Affairs and a professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to break down this story, which comes at a critical juncture in the war in Ukraine, and look at the different ways Athens has supported and continues to support Kyiv.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece and Spain under pressure to provide Ukraine with air defence systems

Haggling over Greek aid to Ukraine

Convicted leader of Greek far-right Golden Dawn party released on parole

EU funnels aid to Lebanon amid Syria migrant surge to Cyprus

The US reluctance to call Turkey’s presence in Cyprus an occupation

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 1 May 2024 20:45:43 +0000

This summer will mark 50 years since Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus, and for the last five decades tens of thousands of Turkish occupation troops have been present in the northern part of the island. 50 years later, the US still refuses to officially recognize Turkey’s illegal occupation as an occupation. Michael Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and director of policy analysis at the Middle East Forum, joins Thanos Davelis to argue that recognizing Turkey’s presence in Cyprus as an occupation will only strengthen America’s position in the region, especially at a time when Nicosia is stepping up and punching above its weight as an indispensable partner.

Read Michael Rubin’s latest:

Refusing to Call Cyprus Occupied Isn’t Sophisticated. It’s Stupid

Is Albania’s Edi Rama the New Erdogan?

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Pappas, Bilirakis, Titus, Malliotakis Introduce the Bipartisan End the Cyprus Embargo Act

Greece boosts special firefighting units to cope with its growing heat risk

An ocean of potential: Greece, the US, and the Our Ocean conference

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 1 May 2024 06:28:44 +0000

Politicians, scientists and organizations from all over the world were in Athens this April as Greece hosted the 9th International Our Ocean Conference. Greece, the US, and all stakeholders made some 450 commitments totalling billions of dollars for the protection of the oceans and seas, including two new marine parks in the Aegean and the Ionian seas. The State Department’s Deputy Assistant Secretary for Ocean, Fisheries and Polar Affairs Dr. Mahlet Mesfin joins Thanos Davelis to look back at the key takeaways from the Our Ocean conference in Athens, and explore how protecting the oceans is a space where the US and Greece can expand their already strong ties.

Dr. Mahlet Mesfin serves as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Ocean, Fisheries and Polar Affairs in the Department of State’s Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs where she oversees the formulation and implementation of U.S. policy on a broad range of international issues concerning the ocean, the Arctic, the Antarctic, and marine conservation.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece to spend €780 mln to protect marine biodiversity, PM says

Environmental protection is blue, too

Our Ocean Conference in Athens, April 15-17, 2024

USAID at Our Ocean Conference 2024

Von der Leyen to unveil aid for Lebanon to stop refugee flows, says Cyprus

‘Blue Homeland’ doctrine to be taught at Turkish schools

Why Erdogan called off his White House visit

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 09:14:10 +0000

After originally leaking that a White House visit was in play in the lead up to municipal elections at the end of March, President Erdogan is now postponing his May meeting with President Biden in Washington, DC. No reason was cited, but, as some analysts note, the move will likely upend efforts to mend ties between the two NATO allies. Wolfango Piccoli, the co-founder of the risk analysis company Teneo, joins Thanos Davelis to look into why this visit was postponed and what message it sends about the US-Turkey relationship and Ankara’s broader ties with the West.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey postpones Erdogan's White House visit

Our neighborhood just got unpredictable again

PM’s Ankara trip to go ahead as planned

Guilty verdicts decried as too lenient

Turkey says it backs outgoing Dutch prime minister Rutte’s candidacy for NATO chief

Elections in North Macedonia put EU and ties with Greece, Bulgaria in the spotlight

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 17:30:00 +0000

Voters in North Macedonia went to the polls on Wednesday for the first round of presidential elections in a vote widely seen as a litmus test for upcoming parliamentary elections. There are some concerns the election outcome could affect North Macedonia’s relations with Greece and Bulgaria - given references to the Prespa Agreement and constitutional changes Sofia is calling for - and further complicate its EU accession process. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition and Politico’s Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to look at Wednesday’s election and its broader implications for the country’s relations with its neighbors and its EU aspirations.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

North Macedonia polls to test EU drive

First round of North Macedonia’s presidential polls shows big shift towards center-right opposition

Amalthea corridor ‘awaiting Gaza pier’

Greece rules out air defence systems to Ukraine, prime minister says

Has Erdogan canceled his White House visit?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 07:31:18 +0000

Claims that Turkish President Erdogan has canceled an upcoming meeting at the White House have been circulating in Turkish media. With neither Washington nor Ankara formally denying the rumors, it is raising more questions about whether they are true or not. In the meantime, it seems Ankara is once again putting up hurdles with regard to NATO, this time over the approval of former Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte as the new secretary-general. Amberin Zaman, Al-Monitor’s chief correspondent covering major stories on the Middle East and North Africa, including Turkey, joins Thanos Davelis to get to the bottom of these rumors around Erdogan’s White House visit.

Read Amberin Zaman’s latest here: Has Turkey’s Erdogan axed his Biden meeting because of Israel?

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

French ask to borrow air defense system

Pyatt: Greece can cover 80% of needs via RES

109 years since the Armenian Genocide: Is history repeating itself?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 18:38:25 +0000

Today marks 109 years since the Armenian genocide began. With commemorations taking place across the world, there is a renewed fear that the lessons of “Never Again” have been forgotten following Azerbaijan’s attack on Nagorno Karabakh and the subsequent mass exodus of over 100,000 Armenians from the region in what has been described as ethnic cleansing. Aram Hamparian, the Executive Director of the Armenian National Committee of America, joins Thanos Davelis to talk about the very real threats facing Armenians in the Caucasus today, and to look at what steps the West - particularly the US - need to take to give meaning to the words “Never Again”.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Armenians fear new war with Azerbaijan despite talk of peace

Armenian victims group asks International Criminal Court to investigate genocide claim

Bipartisan, Bicameral Coalition of U.S. Legislators Call for American Leadership to Secure Justice for Artsakh and the Armenian Genocide

Greek top court bars far-right Spartiates party from EU election race

Greece draws 3 bln euros from 30-year bond amid huge demand

Changes to Greece’s Golden Visa scheme

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 05:54:13 +0000

Changes to Greece’s Golden Visa scheme are set to kick in at the end of the summer. This will see increases in the minimum amount needed to invest in order to secure a residence permit in an effort to tackle the country’s housing crisis. This move comes as golden visa programs are being phased out or shut down around Europe, and as housing has become a hot political issue. Nikos Roussanoglou, a journalist with 23 years of experience at Kathimerini covering the economy, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what these new changes will mean, and whether we are seeing the beginning of the end of the golden visa scheme.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Extra rules for Golden Visa

Golden Visa Programs, Once a Boon, Lose Their Luster

Greece tightens Golden Visa rules

Golden Visa demand grows

Rise of house prices continues

North Macedonia to elect president after campaign focused on EU membership

Greece plans early repayment of eurozone bailout loans this year

The 'spectacular turnaround' in investments in Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 10:19:38 +0000

Investments in Greece have shot up over the past years, with the country outperforming its Eurozone partners when it comes to the pace with which it is attracting and increasing investments. Despite this positive picture, there are a number of myths around investments in Greece, especially when it comes to real estate and the Golden Visa scheme. Michael Arghyrou, the head of the Council of Economic Advisors for Greece’s Finance Ministry and a professor in Economics at the University of Piraeus, joins Thanos Davelis to bust some of these myths and look at how investments are transforming Greece’s economy.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Δώδεκα μύθοι και μία αλήθεια για τις επενδύσεις

Sun, Sea and Exports Give South Europe Reason to Feel Smug

Greece will not compromise defense, spokesman says following FT report

Greece and Spain under pressure to provide Ukraine with air defence systems

Iraq, Turkey to elevate security, economic ties after Erdogan visit

Greece's economic rebound and the challenges ahead

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 18:25:05 +0000

Since emerging from its international bailouts and a decade-long economic crisis, the Greek economy is now surging, outperforming its eurozone partners with its economy expected to grow nearly 3% this year. Despite this positive outlook, there are key challenges ahead, as some economies in the eurozone have slowed down, and many Greeks hurt by the crisis are still struggling. Nikos Vettas, the General Director of the Foundation for Economic and Industrial Research and Professor of Economics at the Athens University of Economics and Business, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this economic rebound and explore the challenges ahead.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greek economy surges after decade of pain

As economy rebounds, Greece will wrap up bank sales this year, finance minister says

Rapprochement with Turkey has reduced illegal migration flows, Mitsotakis says

Hamas leader to visit Turkey for talks with Erdogan

Hamas Leader to Meet With Erdogan in Turkey

Greece plans defense system like Israel’s Iron Dome

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 08:12:10 +0000

Following Iran’s latest attack on Israel over the weekend Defense Minister Nikos Dendias said that Greece plans to develop a defense system similar to Israel’s Iron Dome aimed at safeguarding the country against airborne threats. Meanwhile, while Iran was also the focus of a summit in Brussels, EU leaders also highlighted relations with Turkey, linking them to progress on the Cyprus issue. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s defense and diplomatic editor, joins Thanos Davelis to explore this plan for a Greek Iron Dome, discuss the view from Athens following Iran’s attack on Israel, and look at the key takeaways from the EU summit on Cyprus.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Athens seeks air defense system like Iron Dome

Turkish threats over marine parks

PM highlights Middle East crisis, Euro-Turkish relations at European Council Summit

Cyprus President optimistic on EU-Turkey talks

Turkey-EU relations fracture over Cyprus connection

Mitsotakis to meet Erdogan on May 13 in Ankara

EU to tighten Iran sanctions after Israel attack

From California to Mount Olympus and Greece's seas

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 16:12:49 +0000

Back in February, the readout from the 5th US-Greece strategic dialogue saw the US and Greece stress the importance of integrating youth in climate change mitigation and resilience, including through a youth corps exchange program that links the California Conservation Corps with Ecogenia in Greece. Thanos Davelis caught up with Larry Notheis, the Chief Deputy Director at the California Conservation Corps, on the sidelines of the “Our Ocean” conference in Athens to look at how the California Conservation Corps model can be applied in Greece, and how these partnerships can make a difference in protecting the oceans, preventing and fighting wildfires, and more.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The First Ecogenia Social Service Program Launched in Litochoro

US embassy to cooperate with local environmental protection organization

Joint Statement on the U.S.-Greece 5th Strategic Dialogue

Unions in Greece call widespread strikes, seeking a return to bargaining rights axed during bailouts

Greece planning air defense system inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome, says minister

Looking at the Greek financial crisis through Schäuble’s memoirs

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 07:29:02 +0000

The memoirs of former German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schäuble were recently released in Germany. As expected, Greece features heavily. All the key moments of the crisis and its main actors are sketched in his memoirs, from the times Grexit was genuinely on the table, to his dealings with prime ministers Papandreou, Samaras, and Tsipras, and finance ministers Papaconstantinou, Venizelos, and Varoufakis. Xenia Kounalaki, a journalist and weekly columnist at Kathimerini, which acquired exclusive rights of publishing excerpts from the book in Greek, joins Thanos Davelis for an inside look into the Greek financial crisis through the lens of one of its main protagonists.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The Greek crisis through Schaeuble’s memoirs

Paris 2024 Olympics torch lit in ancient Olympia

Greece becomes first European country to ban bottom trawling in marine parks

Visiting the oracle: Delphi Economic Forum IX

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 08:27:50 +0000

Last week thought leaders, politicians, experts and the business community gathered in Delphi in Greece for the 9th Delphi Economic Forum. The Hellenic American Leadership Council (HALC) had an important presence there as well, leading discussions on the role of the diaspora, the importance of Cyprus, the Middle East post October 7th, and the future direction of American foreign policy given US elections in November. Endy Zemenides, HALC’s Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis to recap the main takeaways from last week’s Delphi Economic Forum in Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Delphi Economic Forum IX

Greece to spend €780 mln to protect marine biodiversity, PM says

Greece now on ‘right path,’ says Stournaras

Planned flotilla from Turkey to Gaza could spark a new crisis

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 16:30:00 +0000

Reports indicate that a new flotilla to Gaza is being prepared out of Turkey. 14 years ago we saw a similar move take place, when the attempt to send the Mavi Marmara flotilla to Gaza led to a diplomatic crisis. Rich Goldberg, a senior advisor at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies with a deep expertise in sanctions policy who previously served on the White House National Security Council, joins Thanos Davelis to look at why we need to be paying attention to this new flotilla set to depart Turkey, which has the potential to spark another diplomatic crisis.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkish Organizations Ready Flotilla to Ignite Tensions With Israel

EU Commissioner Schinas hails bloc’s new migration laws

EU approves major overhaul of migration rules

Greece can serve as entry point for energy to the north, PM says

‘Greece is redrawing energy map,’ says US ambassador

The ISIS resurgence in Syria and Turkey's role in it

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 17:12:55 +0000

Years after its collapse in Iraq and Syria at the hands of a US-led coalition, it looks like ISIS is making a comeback. As reports indicate, ISIS has been expanding its presence in Syria, attacking regime soldiers, civilians, and the US-backed Kurdish-led SDF. An underreported element of this story is Turkey’s role in the revival of the Islamic State. Nadine Maenza joins Thanos Davelis to look at what a resurgent ISIS means for the region, particularly in the autonomous zone in north east Syria, and break down why we need to put the spotlight on Turkey’s role in this ISIS comeback.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Worrying signs exist that IS growing stronger in Syria

Syrian Kurdish commander says resolve of US-led anti-ISIS coalition weakening

Nadine Maenza on Turkey’s role in IS growing stronger

Greece launches ‘free’ holidays for tourists who fled 2023 Rhodes wildfires

Greece’s F-35 deal moves forward

Greece to protect its seas with two new marine parks

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 17:30:00 +0000

Greece’s government just announced the creation of two new marine parks – in the Ionian and Aegean seas. The move comes a week before Athens is set to host the 9th Our Ocean Conference on April 16 and 17, which will see key stakeholders not only put a spotlight on issues related to the protection of the seas, but also present a series of concrete proposals. Giorgos Lialios, a journalist at Kathimerini covering issues related to the environment, joins Thanos Davelis to talk about the new marine parks Greece is creating, look into the upcoming Our Oceans Conference, and more.

Read Giorgos Lalios’ latest for Kathimerini: Greece commits to protection of its seas

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The losing battle against Greece’s tumbling birthrate

Sakellaropoulou calls for ongoing support for Ukraine

Zelensky warns of Russian aggression beyond Ukraine

Turkey, Israel, and Erdogan's post-election challenges

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 08:10:36 +0000

Turkey announced it was restricting exports on a wide range of products to Israel on Tuesday, in Ankara's first significant measure against Israel after six months of war. The decision comes after Turkish President Erdogan’s party suffered a historic defeat in the municipal elections, a result which experts Sinan Ciddi and Steven Cook argued in Foreign Policy could provide a first glimpse into what a post-AKP Turkey might look like. Sinan Ciddi joins Thanos Davelis to look at why Erdogan is taking these measures against Israel now, and break down how it fits into the broader post-election narrative.

Read Sinan Ciddi and Steven Cook’s latest in Foreign Policy here: Post-Erdogan Turkey Is Finally Here

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey imposes export restrictions on Israel until Gaza ceasefire

Greece accuses Turkey of ‘politicizing’ environment, affirms commitment to safeguarding sovereign rights

Turkey challenges Greek plans for new marine park in Aegean Sea, citing sovereignty dispute

EU Red Sea navy mission commander hopes for more ships to repel Houthi attacks

Thucydides, NATO, and the new era of great power politics

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 9 Apr 2024 10:20:47 +0000

The last decade Thucydides has moved to the center of the discussion, with concepts like the “Thucydides trap” debated in policy circles in Washington, DC when looking at how to navigate US relations with a rising China in what appears to be a new era of great power competition. So what can Thucydides tell us about our world today? This was the focus of a recent event in Athens at the Institute of International Relations featuring Professor Andrew Novo, a scholar of ancient and modern Mediterranean history and strategic studies. Andrew Novo joins Thanos Davelis to look at the lessons we should take away from Thucydides in a changing world.

Andrew Novo is Professor of Strategic Studies at the National Defense University in Washington, DC. He also teaches as an adjunct at Georgetown’s Walsh School of Foreign Service, is a non-resident fellow with the Center for European Policy’s Transatlantic Defense and Security program, and is the author of numerous books, including “Restoring Thucydides: Testing Familiar Lessons and Deriving New Ones”. All views expressed in this interview are his own and don’t reflect the views of the US government.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

We have good allies: Allies and decisions for war and peace in Thucydides

Cyprus president and Lebanese caretaker premier urge EU financial aid to curb migration from Lebanon

Greece Invests Over €2 Billion to Fight Climate Change Effects

Cyprus calls for EU help amid migration crisis

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 6 Apr 2024 08:14:12 +0000

Migration is top of the agenda this week in Cyprus, with President Nikos Christodoulides calling for the EU to step in to help Cyprus deal with a surge in arrivals on its shores. Cyprus is pressing Brussels to designate parts of Syria as safe for returns of migrants, and also to condition EU aid to Lebanon on its preventing migrants from departing. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition and Politico’s Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the migration crisis unfolding in Cyprus, and look at how it is impacting the agenda ahead of the European elections.

Read Nektaria Stamouli’s latest for Politico here:

Cyprus declares migration crisis, calls for EU to help

Cyprus demands Lebanon control migrant flows

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Biden lauds Greek ideals, independence at White House celebration

Lion’s share of foreign investment in realty

How Greece is overhauling its wildfire response plans ahead of the summer

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 5 Apr 2024 09:05:54 +0000

Greece is ramping up its firefighting efforts, with authorities betting on a host of preventive measures - from the deployment of firefighting aircraft to increased staffing in specialized forest firefighting units - as temperatures touched 30 degrees Celsius in late March and wildfires already broke out weeks earlier than expected. On top of multi-agency exercises and drills, Greece is also fast-tracking a 2.1 billion euro program to upgrade its fleet of firefighting aircraft and create an AI-driven sensor network to detect smoke in the early stages of a fire. Derek Gatopoulos, a correspondent for the Associated Press who has been covering news in Greece for more than 25 years, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the steps Greece is taking to prepare ahead of this summer’s wildfire season.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

As fire season fast approaches, Greece’s planners look for an edge in response time

Greek authorities overhaul wildfire response plans ahead of summer fire season

Eleven far-right MPs charged with electoral fraud

Greece and India to sign defense cooperation agreement

The far-right in Greece - A rising threat ahead of EU elections?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 4 Apr 2024 08:02:01 +0000

With the EU elections on the horizon, one party in Greece, Greek Solution, is seeing a notable surge in support. The rise of this far right nationalist party also mirrors broader trends in the far right across Europe, and many are beginning to ask whether this resurgent far-right is here to stay. Dr. Georgios Samaras, an assistant professor of public policy at King’s College London, joins Thanos Davelis to look into the rise of Greek Solution and its leader Kostas Velopoulos, breaking down what this could mean for Greek politics ahead of European elections in June.

Read Dr. Georgios Samaras’ latest piece in Kathimerini: The Greek far-right – a rising threat in the EU election storm

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

NATO to plan long-term Ukraine aid, mulls 100-billion euro fund

NATO ministers’ doubts, fears and eye-rolls over €100B Ukraine plan

Turkey’s election authority reinstates pro-Kurdish mayoral election winner

Greece's visa program for Turkish visitors and the ongoing efforts to maintain calm in the Aegean

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 3 Apr 2024 09:31:35 +0000

Greece has just opened a new vacation visa terminal for Turkish visitors this week as part of a diplomatic effort to ease long-standing tensions between the two countries. The move follows the signing of a series of agreements between Greece and Turkey during President Erdogan’s meeting with Prime Minister Mitsotakis in Athens in December, most notably the Athens Declaration. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this latest initiative, and explore where it fits into ongoing efforts to maintain calm in the Aegean.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greek islands launch special visa program for Turkish visitors in diplomatic effort to calm region

Maintaining calm relations in the ‘frozen’ Greek-Turkish dispute

Cyprus to Gaza corridor will continue to operate, Cyprus president says

Black Hawk helicopter purchase gets green light

Turkey's opposition stuns Erdogan with historic win in local elections

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 2 Apr 2024 09:53:21 +0000

Less than a year after securing another term, Turkish President Erdogan’s Justice and Development Party suffered its worst defeat in its 22-year history in Sunday’s municipal elections. All eyes were on Istanbul, where Ekrem Imamoglu easily won reelection and is increasingly cementing his place as Erdogan’s political challenger. Amberin Zaman, Al-Monitor’s chief correspondent covering major stories on the Middle East and North Africa, including Turkey, joins Thanos Davelis to break down Sunday’s results, what this defeat means for Erdogan, and look at whether the opposition’s resurgence can now reshape Turkey’s national politics.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan suffers an electoral disaster

Turkish local elections: Opposition stuns Erdogan with historic victory

Defense Min unveils ‘Agenda 2030’ for armed forces restructuring

Mitsotakis launches campaign for Euro elections stressing security, stability

PM notes high stakes of Euro elections

Is Erdogan's invite to the White House a diplomatic win?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 30 Mar 2024 08:15:55 +0000

On Friday US and Turkish officials confirmed that Turkey’s President Erdogan will visit the White House on May 9th, a move that has been described as an apparent quid pro quo for Ankara’s decision to finally green-light Sweden’s NATO membership. Alan Makovsky, veteran Turkey analyst and senior fellow at the Center for American Progress, joins Thanos Davelis to examine how Erdogan finally snagged an invite to the White House, and look into what message this move sends about the Biden administration’s approach to Turkey in the wake of the Sweden NATO saga.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Erdogan snags White House invite in diplomatic win, Turkish press reports

Biden to host Turkey's Erdogan at White House on May 9

Greece to raise monthly minimum wage by 6.4% to 830 euros

EU plans to fast-track some financial aid to Egypt

Quest for an antique reveals Thessaloniki's multilayered past

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 29 Mar 2024 09:16:29 +0000

Can a small antique table give us insight into the history of an entire city and its broader connections to the region? A recent quest for such an antique sent Sean Mathews, a journalist based in Greece and covering the broader Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East, on a trip to Thessaloniki that quickly revealed just how multi-layered and cosmopolitan the city’s past is, with rich connections to the Eastern Mediterranean. Sean Mathews and George Manginis, the academic director at the Benaki Museum, join Thanos Davelis to break down this rich history and look at how current efforts to shine a light on Thessaloniki’s past cosmopolitanism are increasingly important today in a changing region.

Read Sean Mathews’ latest article here: Ghosts of Thessaloniki: How a quest for a table revealed much about a city's multilayered past

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greek government survives no-confidence vote over deadly Tempi train trash

No confidence motion fails, 141-159

Tempe rail tragedy looms large over Euro polls

Second aid ship heading to Gaza from Cyprus

European Parliament President to visit Cyprus for humanitarian aid talks

Can changes in higher education turn Greece into a global education hub?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 08:06:15 +0000

A few weeks ago Greece passed a law allowing the operation of private, non-profit universities, including allowing foreign private universities to set up branches in the country. The move came despite weeks of demonstrations that included scores of university building occupations by students. Despite this, opinion polls indicate that most Greeks agree with the creation of privately-run universities. David Horner, the President of the American College of Greece, the oldest and largest US accredited college or university in Europe, joins Thanos Davelis to share his perspectives on the impact of this bill and the potential for Greece to serve as a global educational hub.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Private universities bill adopted

Greek lawmakers approve ending state monopoly on university education, despite student protests

Erdogan snags White House invite in diplomatic win, Turkish press reports

Cyprus aims to complete Vasilikos LNG terminal by year’s end

50 years after the Metapolitefsi: What lessons does it hold for democracy?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 09:57:49 +0000

Earlier this year Kathimerini organized a three-day conference looking back at the 50 years since the restoration of democracy in Greece in 1974, or the Metapolitefsi. We saw a gathering of some of the most influential people of this period, including former prime ministers, who discussed in depth the numerous crises the country has gone through during the past 50 years and many of its accomplishments. Alexis Papachelas, Kathimerini’s Editor in Chief, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss why this 50th anniversary is important not just for understanding the country’s history, but to learn from its lessons, especially at a time when we see democracy under threat across the world.

Read Alexis Papachelas latest on this issue here: Lessons from the Metapolitefsi

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Fifty years after the Metapolitefsi

Metapolitefsi divides generations

A conference of reflection

Cyprus to get US expertise in countering money laundering

Polarization fueled ahead of Euro election

Lord Byron and the Greek Revolution

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 18:01:44 +0000

As we celebrate Greek independence day today, March 25th, we’re going to take a deeper look at one of the crucial figures of the Greek Revolution of 1821, Lord Byron. Aside from his status as a world renowned poet at the time, he is also perhaps the most famous philhellene to travel to Greece and ultimately give his life for Greek independence in 1824, 200 years ago. Professor Roderick Beaton, a historian and author of the books Byron’s War: Romantic Rebellion, Greek Revolution, Greece: Biography of a Modern Nation, and The Greeks: A Global History, joins Thanos Davelis to explore Lord Byron’s important contributions to the Greek cause and his wider legacy.

Read Prof. Roderick Beaton’s book on Lord Byron here: Byron's War: Romantic Rebellion, Greek Revolution

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Mitsotakis, Trudeau hail Greek-Canadian relations in joint statement

Mitsotakis, on Canadian TV, touts ‘rather impressive’ economic comeback

North-South EU divide over defense bond

Focus on Cyprus: From President Biden's letter to Greek Independence Day celebrations

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 23 Mar 2024 08:41:42 +0000

This past week Washington’s attention has been on Cyprus and the humanitarian corridor from Gaza, from President Biden’s letter thanking President Christodoulides, to the National Security Council’s chief of staff visiting Cyprus. Cyprus is also going to be a central theme for diaspora Greeks as celebrations for Greek independence day kick off on March 25th. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest on these key developments on Cyprus, and provides a look ahead at the upcoming Greek Independence Day celebrations.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

US racing to prepare Gaza jetty by May 1, says US official

Biden on Greek Independence Day: friendship ‘stronger than ever before’

Christodoulides eyes EU-Turkey talks for Cyprob benefit

EU summit stirs hope for Cyprus President's role in Turkey talks

Greek authorities overhaul wildfire response plans ahead of summer fire season

Why NATO's tolerance of Turkey's occupation of Cyprus weakens its case on Ukraine

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 18:00:00 +0000

With Ukraine facing a resurgent Russia, NATO leaders have been clear that they do not and “will never recognize Russia’s illegal and illegitimate annexations, including Crimea.” While Western leaders speak clearly when it comes to Ukraine, their uncompromising positions are unfortunately undermined when NATO remains largely silent over the precedent for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine: Turkey’s invasion and occupation of the northern part of Cyprus in 1974. Michael Rubin, the director of policy analysis at the Middle East Forum and a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, joins Thanos Davelis to explain why NATO’s 50 year tolerance of Turkey’s occupation of Cyprus weakens its case on Ukraine.

Read Michael Rubin’s latest here: NATO tolerance of Cyprus’ occupation weakens case on Ukraine

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Extra rules for Golden Visa

Turkish central bank stuns market by hiking interest rates to 50%

Turkey raises interest rates to 50% as it seeks to cool runaway inflation

Erdogan says all of Cyprus could have been Turkish

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 08:27:28 +0000

In a speech on Monday Turkey’s President Erdogan not only defended the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974, but went even further, stating that if Turkish troops hadn’t stopped then all of Cyprus would be Turkish today. His comments come as a new UN special envoy is looking for ways to restart talks on Cyprus and amid efforts by Athens and Ankara to normalize ties. They also come on the heels of a recent trip that saw Greece and Cyprus deepen ties with Egypt. Constantinos Filis, the Director of the Institute of Global Affairs and an associate professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to break down Erdogan’s latest outbursts and their broader impact.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Erdogan’s comments on Cyprus a blatant distortion of the historical truth, say sources

Erdogan: All Cyprus could have been ours

Greek PM and Egyptian President strengthen partnership

As economy rebounds, Greece will wrap up bank sales this year, finance minister says

PM to visit Canada, finalize purchase of firefighting planes

Elections, inflation, and Erdogan's economic policy agenda

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 11:07:12 +0000

As in the past, the upcoming municipal elections in Turkey are playing a key role in shaping the country's economic policies. While time and resources have been wasted due to Erdogan’s political priorities, soaring inflation - which surpassed 67% earlier this year - and the cost of living crisis has made daily life increasingly difficult for most citizens. Wolfango Piccoli, the co-founder of risk analysis company Teneo, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how the upcoming elections are impacting Turkey’s economic policies, and whether we should expect a shift in policy from Erdogan following elections.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey inflation rises to 67%, keeping pressure on cenbank

Turkey’s Simsek Dismisses Post-Election Lira Doom Scenario

Erdogan: All Cyprus could have been ours

Erdogan’s comments on Cyprus a blatant distortion of the historical truth, say sources

Food aid from Cyprus reaches starving people in northern Gaza, says charity

The rise of Greek Solution, the far right, and European elections

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 09:52:59 +0000

The rise of the far right nationalist party Greek Solution is attracting the interest of many who follow Greek politics, especially due to its approach to issues like Athens’ support for Ukraine. If Greek Solution’s growing appeal in the opinion polls continues ahead of European elections in June, it could even end up in third place. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English edition, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the rise of Greek Solution and what it could mean for Prime Minister Mitsotakis, New Democracy, and Greece’s broader political scene.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The rise of Greek Solution

EU announces €7.4 bln package for Egypt as concerns over migration mount

Greek PM and Egyptian President strengthen partnership

Maintaining calm relations in the ‘frozen’ Greek-Turkish dispute

US Ambassador to Greece wants more US-Greece flights

Why local elections could be critical for Turkey's political future

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 19:33:21 +0000

In 2019 the municipal elections in Turkey garnered widespread attention both inside and outside the country, especially with Turkish President Erdogan’s handpicked AKP candidates losing Istanbul and Ankara. Erdogan is now intent on winning both back. Ayla Jean Yackley, an Istanbul-based journalist covering Turkey with stories in The Financial Times, Politico, and other major outlets, joins Thanos Davelis to look at why we should be paying attention to Turkey’s upcoming elections, which could be critical for the country’s politics - from the ruling party to the opposition.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Local Elections Will Soon Decide Turkey’s Future

Erdogan Tightens Grip on Media and Internet Ahead of Elections

The complex landscape facing Turkey ahead of local elections

Aid supply ship from Cyprus reaches Gaza coast but weather slows delivery

Humanitarian aid ship reaches Gaza

Greece will keep supplying Ukraine

The Greek debt crisis and President Obama's foreign policy

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 10:48:19 +0000

How critical was the US role during the Greek debt crisis, and how does it fit into then President Barack Obama’s wider approach to US foreign policy, especially at a time when the US was looking to pivot to Asia? Katerina Sokou, who holds the research fellowship at ELIAMEP on “Greek-American Relations” and who covered the Greek crisis from Washington, DC as a correspondent for Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to break down how the Greek debt crisis provides a case study into the Obama foreign policy doctrine - the focus of her recent in-depth report for ELIAMEP - and underscores Europe’s continuing importance for Washington, DC.

Read Katerina Sokou’s latest here: Obama’s Foreign Policy and the Greek Debt Crisis

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Second ship loaded with Gaza aid from Cyprus, says charity

US Army boats head out on a mission to build a floating pier off Gaza’s shore for food deliveries

PM: Beleri case clouds relations with Albania

Rama appoints ethnic Greek as Vlora prefect

Egypt and the concerns in Athens and the EU over migration

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 10:36:01 +0000

Egypt is set to receive a €7.4 billion aid package to not only shore up the country’s economy, but also curb migration. The move comes amid fears that the conflicts in Gaza and Sudan risk exacerbating financial troubles in the country while raising concerns of new waves of immigration to Europe. There are concerns that Crete, which is already seeing a spike in arrivals from north Africa, could come under pressure. Greek Migration Minister Dimitris Kairidis joins Thanos Davelis to break down why this deal is vital for Egypt, Europe, and Greece. We also look into the broader debate around migration, that also focuses on the urgent need for migrants for the Greek and European economies.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Brussels prepares €7.4bn aid package for Egypt

Migrant flows putting pressure on Crete

Egyptian headache in Athens and EU

Asylum applications in EU at highest level since 2015/16 crisis

PM heading to US in April

Plan to prevent Thessaly desertification

A new approach to the Western Balkans? Bosnia, the EU and the US

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 10:41:06 +0000

The European Commission is set to recommend that the EU open accession talks with Bosnia and Herzegovina, despite lingering ethnic divisions in the Western Balkan country. This comes after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed that it’s “not enough to just wait for the Western Balkans to move closer” to the EU. At the same time, US Special Representative to the Western Balkans Gabriel Escobar is also in the region to reaffirm America’s commitment to the Euro-Atlantic integration of the Western Balkans. Prof. James Ker-Lindsay, who has written extensively on the EU, the Balkans, and Southeast Europe, joins Thanos Davelis to break down these latest developments.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

European Union members should open talks with Bosnia on joining, the EU’s executive branch says

Brussels recommends opening EU membership talks with Bosnia and Herzegovina

Senior US Official Travels to Kosovo to Revive Kosovo-Serbia Talks After Tensions Over Currency

Special Representative to the Western Balkans Gabriel Escobar’s Travel to Belgium, Kosovo, Austria, and Montenegro

IOBE calls for measures to stem demographic trend

Gaza war: First aid ship sets off from Cyprus

‘Lifeline’ aid ship for Gaza finally sets sail from Cyprus

Are we seeing a new momentum in US-Turkey ties?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 10:22:26 +0000

We’ve just seen consecutive visits to the US by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin, with both officials discussing a series of issues - from the wars in Gaza and Ukraine to trade and investments - with the White House, the State Department and Congress. This has many wondering if we are seeing a “new momentum” in US-Turkey ties in the wake of the Sweden NATO saga. Expert Sinan Ciddi joins Thanos Davelis to discuss whether this is the case.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

New visits, full momentum: Can Turkey and US go beyond transactionalism?

Joint Statement on the U.S.-Türkiye Strategic Mechanism

Turkey’s Fidan to meet Blinken in Washington as US ties strengthen

Turkey: A Sanctuary for Terrorist Entities & Illicit Finance

S-300 missiles could be sent to Ukraine

Greece-Turkey political dialogue: Commitment to build on existing positive atmosphere

Cyprus' central role in the Gaza humanitarian corridor

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 9 Mar 2024 10:39:27 +0000

On Friday the US, EU, Cyprus, and other countries involved formally announced their backing for a sea aid corridor to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza, built around a proposal developed by Cyprus last year. The move follows President Biden’s announcement in the State of the Union of a plan for the US military to establish a temporary port on the coast of Gaza to significantly widen the flow of humanitarian aid into the Strip. Konstantinos Letymbiotis, the Government Spokesperson of the Republic of Cyprus, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this humanitarian corridor and Cyprus’ central role in it.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Cyprus’ top diplomat on the maritime corridor

Pentagon holds briefing after Biden announces plan to deliver aid to Gaza by sea

Sea Corridor for Gaza Tests U.S. Ability to Ease Humanitarian Crisis

A ship with Gaza aid is preparing to inaugurate a sea route from Cyprus to the war-ravaged strip

Joint statement by EU, Cyprus, UAE, US, and UK on aid effort to Gaza

Private universities bill adopted

Greek lawmakers approve ending state monopoly on university education, despite student protests

Turkey's Erdogan says March election will be his final, state media reports

Turkey’s Erdogan indicates he will step down at end of term after 2 decades in power

Mitsotakis' visit to Ukraine and Greece's efforts to support Kyiv

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 8 Mar 2024 09:54:52 +0000

On Wednesday international headlines all focused on the Russian ballistic missile that struck a few hundred meters from where Greece’s Prime Minister Mitsotakis was meeting with Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy in Odesa. Ambassador Spiros Lambridis, Greece’s special envoy for Ukraine, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this incident and look at the broader significance of Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ visit to Ukraine. We’ll also explore Greece’s overall efforts to support Kyiv in this war, from military assistance to helping Ukraine rebuild.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Mitsotakis: Greece supports Ukraine’s fight for freedom

PM’s Ukraine visit turns into thriller

Russia Strikes Odesa With Missile During Visit by Zelensky and Greek Leader

Mitsotakis after Odesa missile hit: ‘No one will intimidate us’

Sweden officially joins NATO, prime minister declares it a 'safer country'

Sweden is now a full NATO member

US to build temporary port to deliver Gaza aid

Biden Seeks to Boost Emergency Aid to Gaza With Offshore Pier

Is Albania's Rama burning bridges with Greece in the Beleri case?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 7 Mar 2024 10:45:46 +0000

This week an Albanian court sentenced Fredi Beleri, the imprisoned mayor-elect of Himare, to 2 years in prison. Beleri slammed the trial and the court’s decision as a “sham”. This case is about much more than one individual, however, touching on deeper issues in Greek-Albanian relations. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this latest development in the Beleri case, and look at what this decision - which is widely seen as political - tells us about the direction Albania’s Prime Minister Edi Rama is taking the country, from the rule of law to its relations with Greece.

Read Vassilis Nedos latest for Kathimerini here: Rama burns bridges with Beleri conviction

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Albania: Ethnic Greek mayor sentenced to two years for vote buying

Russian missile nearly hits Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis

Explosion rocks Odesa near where Zelenskyy was meeting Greek PM

PM’s Ukraine visit turns into thriller

Gaza aid due to sail soon from Cyprus, source says

China's Belt and Road Initiative and its risks for Europe and the US

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 6 Mar 2024 10:45:07 +0000

When China’s Belt and Road Initiative was formally launched in 2013, it was touted as a world-spanning push to replicate the economic and political impact of the Silk Road. As it made investments across the world - including in the port of Piraeus during the depths of the financial crisis - Western capitals sought to counter Beijing’s growing influence. While it appears that the BRI is in retreat today, there are still risks. Josh Birenbaum, the deputy director of the Center on Economic and Financial Power at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the BRI today, why Europe and Washington should still be concerned about China, and what tools are available to counter Beijing - from the DFC to the proposed IMEC corridor.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

China’s Belt and Road Initiative is bringing new risks to Europe

Tightening the Belt or End of the Road? China’s BRI at 10

Albania: Ethnic Greek mayor sentenced to two years for vote buying

Beleri: ‘It was a sham trial’

Rama burns bridges with Beleri conviction

Von der Leyen expected in Cyprus to discuss sea corridor

Ursula von der Leyen in Cyprus for humanitarian corridor talks

Turkey revives plan to convert Chora Church into mosque

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 5 Mar 2024 10:55:45 +0000

In 2020 Turkey’s government changed the status of Hagia Sophia from a museum into a mosque. Now, Ankara is looking to repeat this with another important UNESCO World Heritage site, Chora Church. In response, HALC has launched a petition calling on the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) to exert pressure on Turkey for the protection of its Christian minorities and Christian cultural heritage. Dr. Elizabeth Prodromou joins Thanos Davelis to look at why preserving Chora Church is important, and break down how USCIRF can take action - including visiting Turkey and the occupied territories of Cyprus.

Dr. Elizabeth Prodromou is a professor in the International Studies Department at Boston College, an internationally recognized leader on issues of religion and human rights, and a previous Vice Chair and Commissioner on the US Commission on International Religious Freedom.

Add you name to HALC’s petition to USCIRF

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey revives plan to convert another iconic Byzantine site into a mosque

Dendias: After Red Sea mission, Greece seeks key role in EU defense

Turkey spy chief Kalin to meet CIA’s Burns, discuss Syria on first US visit

Senate puts F-16 sale and US-Turkey ties in the spotlight

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 2 Mar 2024 10:55:55 +0000

The US Senate put the Turkey F-16 deal back in the spotlight this week, with Senator Rand Paul initiating a debate over why this sale to Ankara was proceeding. While some key Senators stressed that a “deal is a deal”, they also voiced their deep concerns about Turkey - from its human rights record to its aggression across the region. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what took place in the Senate, the message it sends about US-Turkey ties, and more.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Senators warily allow F-16 sale to Turkey as part of NATO expansion agreement

Foreign policy milestones: EU accession, Turkey, Cyprus, Prespes

EU border agency to triple officers on Bulgaria-Turkey frontier

US plans first military airdrop of aid into Gaza

US weighs Cyprus humanitarian corridor as famine looms in Gaza

SYRIZA and Greece's center left: Crisis and the challenge of unity

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 1 Mar 2024 10:55:02 +0000

This past weekend SYRIZA held a 4 day convention that was filled with drama and chaos, with both its identity as well as its leadership being challenged. With a new leadership race narrowly avoided, the question remains if there is a leader in the fragmented center left that can unite the opposition. At the same time, recent polling shows an increase in support for parties to the right of New Democracy. Political scientist and expert Panos Koliastasis joins Thanos Davelis to look at this ongoing crisis in SYRIZA and the broader center left, while breaking down the latest polls and the message they send ahead of European elections.

Panos Koliastasis, an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Politics at the University of Peloponnese, contributor to Kathimerini, and the author of the book "Permanent campaigning in Greece in times of crisis: the Samaras, Tsipras and Mitsotakis premierships".

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

SYRIZA: The challenge of unity and reinvention

Greek center-left: The long road to unity

Ruling New Democracy maintains dominance

Greece seeking to create ‘smarter’ army

Senators warily allow F-16 sale to Turkey as part of NATO expansion agreement

Why Egypt is keeping officials in the US and Europe up at night

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 10:35:55 +0000

The current crisis in the Middle East - from Gaza to the Red Sea - is threatening the stability of Egypt, one of the most important countries in the Arab world. Policymakers from Washington to Athens know that if Egypt falls the aftershocks would be felt across the region, as the ensuing social explosion would cause chaos, uncontrollable migrant flows to Europe and the creation of another trouble spot - beyond Libya - in the region. Alexis Papachelas, Kathimerini’s editor in chief, joins Thanos Davelis to look at why there is good reason to worry about Egypt in Washington, Brussels, and Athens.

Read Alexis Papachelas’ latest in Kathimerini: There’s good reason to worry about Egypt

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Tens of thousands take to Greece’s streets demanding justice for deadly train crash

Germany hosts peace talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan

Germany hosts talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan

Armenia, Azerbaijan inch toward shaky peace deal but key issues unaddressed

A way home for the 'Lost Children of Greece'

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 19:31:20 +0000

In late December a petition was launched titled “Nostos for Greek Adoptees,” asking the Greek state to recognize some 4,000 Greek-born adoptees - the so-called Lost Children of Greece. While there were many legal adoptions during the post-war era, many were not. Dr. Mary Cardaras, a Greek-born adoptee, author, journalist, and founder and director of The Demos Center at The American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to tell the story of these Lost Children of Greece, and look at what steps can be taken from Athens to bring them back to their roots.

Dr. Mary Cardaras is also the author of “Ripped at the Root” and editor of “Voices of the Lost Children of Greece”.

Read Mary Cardaras’ latest in Kathimerini on this subject here:

Nostos for Greek adoptees: It’s long past time

Our stories and our records belong to us

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece says it’s hoping to nudge ally Armenia’s alliances westward

US tourist numbers increasing rapidly

Greece's record year for tourism and concerns about sustainability

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 17:10:20 +0000

Last year was a record year for Greek tourism, with the latest statistics showing a remarkable comeback for the sector from the years of lockdowns during the pandemic. While these trends are welcome, there are also some worrying signs, as 2023 saw an increasing use of the term “over tourism”. Georgia Nakou, a features editor at MacroPolis - a specialist website focused on political and economic analysis of Greek affairs, joins Thanos Davelis to break down this record year for tourism, the causes for concern amid questions of sustainability, and the government’s response.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Record year for Greek tourism raises concerns about sustainability

Kasselakis vows to revamp SYRIZA ahead of European elections

SYRIZA decides against inner party elections

President Christodoulides prepares Cyprus for new sanctions unit

Farmer protests in Greece and political turmoil in SYRIZA

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 24 Feb 2024 10:02:10 +0000

This past week protests and politics took center stage in Greece, as farmers - like many of their European counterparts - descended on Athens with their tractors to demand that the government do more to improve their working and living conditions. As the protests were wrapping up, Greece’s main opposition party SYRIZA kicked off a convention that has now raised the prospects of a fresh leadership race within the party months after Stefanos Kasselakis was elected. Iliana Magra, a journalist with Kathimerini who covered the farmers’ protests and the SYRIZA convention, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest analysis from Athens.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greek farmers drive tractors to parliament to demand financial help

Thousands rally in Athens as Greek farmers step up protests

Kasselakis throws gauntlet at party detractors

Fresh SYRIZA leadership battle on the cards

Government plans to bring in 40,000 workers from six countries

Turkey Pursues and Seizes Critics Abroad: Human Rights Watch

History in the making as Alexandroupoli FSRU receives first shipment of U.S. LNG

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 10:20:07 +0000

On February 18th the floating storage regasification unit in Alexandroupoli received its first test shipment of U.S. liquefied natural gas. Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources Geoffrey Pyatt described the successful opening of the Alexandroupolis FSRU as a ‘milestone” in “the longstanding transatlantic effort to diversify European energy routes and suppliers.” In other energy news, it looks like decision time has come for the hydrocarbon survey program off Crete by ExxonMobil and Helleniq Energy. Dr. Theodoros Tsakiris, an associate professor of geopolitics and energy policy at the University of Nicosia, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what these developments mean for Greece and the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

First gas load to Alexandroupoli FSRU

Alexandroupolis LNG Terminal going live after test runs

Key moment for blocks off Crete

Fresh SYRIZA leadership battle on the cards

Albanian Parliament approves controversial deal to hold migrants for Italy

Top EU official lauds Italy-Albania migration deal but a court and a rights commissioner have doubts

Is European defense becoming a necessity?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 09:06:54 +0000

As Western leaders gathered in Munich this weekend for the Munich Security Conference, warnings about Russian President Putin’s possible next moves were mixed with Europe’s growing concerns that it could soon be abandoned by the United States as aid to Ukraine is stalled in Congress and former President Trump casts doubts on America’s commitment to NATO. Max Bergmann, the director of the Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program and the Stuart Center in Euro-Atlantic and Northern European Studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), joins Thanos Davelis to look at these concerns and explore whether European defense has now become a necessity.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Europe’s security elite braces for Trump, searches for backup plans

As Putin Threatens, Despair and Hedging in Europe

Can Europe defend itself without America?

Greece to prioritize strengthening relations with India, says PM

Greece is India’s gateway to Europe, PM says

Greek farmers join tractor protest in front of parliament for second day

Are Turkey and Egypt turning a "new leaf" in their relations?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 11:04:43 +0000

Last week Turkey’s President Erdogan traveled to Egypt, where he met with his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. While both leaders said they were turning a "new leaf" in their relations after over a decade of estrangement, differences remain, and it seems Cairo is still wary of Ankara. Expert Constantinos Filis, the Director of the Institute of Global Affairs and an associate professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss Erdogan’s latest visit to Egypt, whether Cairo is really ready to mend fences, and what these developments mean for the broader region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Αρθρο Κ. Φίλη στην «Κ»: Υποχρεωτική επανεκκίνηση με αστερίσκους για Αίγυπτο και Τουρκία

Erdogan says Turkey ready to cooperate with Egypt on Gaza

Relations between Turkey and Egypt turn 'new leaf' as Erdogan visits Cairo

Thousands join rally in Athens as farmers step up protest

Mitsotakis stresses importance of strategic partnership during official visit to India

Greece’s gateway to Asia, India’s gateway to Europe

Focus on Greece: From the strategic dialogue with the US to the letter of assurances

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 10:39:36 +0000

Greece’s Kathimerini newspaper just reported on the contents of the final draft of a letter from the State Department to Congress that implies that the F-16 and F-35 sales to Turkey and Greece come with conditions, refuting Ankara’s narrative that no such letter existed. This letter comes on the heels of a two week period in DC that put the spotlight on the US-Greece relationship, from the Strategic Dialogue to the 5th Southeast Europe and Eastern Mediterranean forum. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to break down these important developments from Washington, DC, and look at what message they send about US-Greece ties.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Joint Statement on the U.S.-Greece 5th Strategic Dialogue

Greece’s role in shifting global dynamics

Important strategic dialogue about what’s happening between Greece and US

F-16s to Ankara, F-35s to Athens come with conditions

National Security Memorandum on Safeguards and Accountability With Respect to Transferred Defense Articles and Defense Services

PM says govt has ‘nothing more to offer’ to farmers

Farmers’ descent on Athens to dominate the agenda

EU mission to protect Red Sea ship launched under Greek command

EU launches Red Sea naval mission to protect shipping from Houthi attacks

Greece passes landmark marriage equality bill

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 22:47:52 +0000

On Thursday Greece finally approved a landmark marriage equality bill, becoming the first majority Orthodox Christian country to take such a step. This is a watershed moment for the country’s LGBTQ community, but, as Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis put it, is also a milestone for human rights. Nikos Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author who has reported extensively on this issue, joins Thanos Davelis to look at this historic moment for Greece, and the ripple effects it is having beyond the country’s borders.

Read Nikos Efstathiou’s latest piece for Kathimerini here: Marriage equality bill has ripple effects outside Greece

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece Becomes First Orthodox Country to Legalize Same-Sex Marriage

Mitsotakis calls for streamlining Europe’s defense industry

Journalists in Turkey Welcome Ruling Restoring Online Access to Banned News Articles

Is global democracy on the ballot in 2024? What's at stake for the US and Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 10:10:48 +0000

2024 will see billions of people head to the polls, with a number of key elections - including in the US - on the horizon. This comes as we’ve also seen illiberal values and politicians who embrace them gain ground across the board. The eyes of the world will justifiably be on the US presidential election in November, where it is increasingly looking like we are in for a repeat of the 2020 election. William Antholis, the director and CEO of UVA’s Miller Center of Public Affairs, joins Thanos Davelis to look at these upcoming elections, with a focus on the US, and break down what’s at stake for the US and democracies around the world, including Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

2024 brings wave of elections with global democracy on the ballot

Trump Will Abandon Nato

Why John Bolton Is Certain Trump Really Wants to Blow Up NATO

Trump’s NATO Threat Reflects a Wider Shift on America’s Place in the World

Greece Becomes First Orthodox Country to Legalize Same-Sex Marriage

Greece becomes first Orthodox Christian country to legalize same-sex civil marriage

Eni drills second well at Cronos gas discovery off Cyprus

Spotlight on Greece, Cyprus, and the East Med in DC

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 03:13:12 +0000

We just wrapped up the Southeastern Europe and Eastern Mediterranean conference here in Washington, DC, a forum Kathimerini English Edition, HALC, and the Delphi Economic Forum have organized now for 5 years running. During the conference we saw Greece, Greek-American relations, Cyprus, developments in the Balkans, and the wars in the Middle East and Ukraine take center stage. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English edition, joins Thanos Davelis in Washington to break down the main takeaways from the past few days in DC.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greek-American relations on the agenda of Kathimerini’s 5th Southeast Europe and EastMed Forum

Most Greeks view US stance positively, poll finds

US will be ‘closely monitoring’ Turkey

Erdogan says Turkey ready to cooperate with Egypt on Gaza

Turkey’s Erdogan receives red-carpet reception in Egypt, calls Sisi 'brother'

Cyprus could produce first natural gas as soon as 2026, minister says

From "problem" to "solution": Cyprus as a strategic partner

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 07:14:39 +0000

For many, Cyprus has largely been defined by the Turkish occupation. This view is changing, however, as Cyprus positions itself as a frontline state for Western interests and an increasingly relevant strategic partner for the United States. Evangelos Savva, the Ambassador of Cyprus to the United States, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss how Cyprus has moved from being viewed solely as a problem to becoming part of the solution to key regional challenges, and look at whether Cyprus’s regional relevance can help solve the Cyprus problem.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

From “problem” to “solution”: Cyprus as a strategic partner, diplomatic linchpin, and occupied state”

John Sarbanes presented with Leader award

Greek-American relations on the agenda of Kathimerini’s 5th Southeast Europe and EastMed Forum

Kathimerini Forum: Signs of optimism in the Western Balkans, but no closer to EU accession

For rights campaigner in Greece, same-sex marriage recognition follows decades of struggle

Greece on the brink of legalising same-sex marriage

US-Greece relations and the 5th Strategic Dialogue

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 07:09:12 +0000

On Friday Greece and the US held their fifth Strategic Dialogue, which, among other things, also saw Greece become the 35th country to sign up to the US Artemis space cooperation accords. Greece’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Ambassador Alexandra Papadopoulou, joins Thanos Davelis on the sidelines of the 5th Southeast Europe and Eastern Mediterranean conference in Washington, DC, to discuss the key takeaways from this latest Strategic Dialogue and highlight what it means for the bilateral relationship. We also look at Greece’s effort to obtain a seat as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, and ongoing talks with Turkey.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Joint Statement on the U.S.-Greece Strategic Dialogue

Greece signs up to US Artemis space cooperation accords

Foreign minister to push for UN Security Council seat

Cyprus president wants the EU to discuss designating Syria safe zones for refugees

US will be ‘closely monitoring’ Turkey

Now is not the time to reward Erdogan

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 10 Feb 2024 09:14:15 +0000

A few weeks ago Turkey finally approved Sweden’s NATO bid. In return, Ankara got a green light from the Biden administration for F-16s, something that’s been on President Erdogan’s wishlist. Now, despite Erdogan’s antics over Sweden and his playing host to Iran and Russia’s leaders, it looks like the Biden administration is employing a new approach of positive reinforcement with Ankara. Expert Sinan Ciddi joins Thanos Davelis to explain why now is not the time for Washington to reward Turkey’s Erdogan.

Read Sinan Ciddi’s latest here: Don’t reward Erdogan

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

United States Welcomes Greece’s Signing of the Artemis Accords

Gov’t mulls raising Golden Visa threshold to tackle housing crisis

Greek officials head to Washington with a full agenda

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 9 Feb 2024 10:23:10 +0000

Greek and US officials will hold the 5th Strategic Dialogue in Washington, DC on Friday, and Foreign Minister Gerapetritis will also meet with Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The agenda ranges from regional developments to the sale of F-35 jets and the possibility of co-producing Constellation-class frigates. As the Strategic Dialogue kicks off, another set of discussions is taking place in the Eastern Mediterranean, where the UN chief’s new personal envoy for Cyprus is meeting with all stakeholders. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to look at Friday’s Strategic Dialogue in DC, and discuss the latest developments on the Cyprus issue.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

FM heads to Washington with full agenda

Students block Athens streets to protest private universities possibly coming to Greece

Greek students step up protests against private university plan

Natural gas exports from Cyprus to Egypt ‘key’ for energy relations

Christodoulides and Egypt's FM Shoukry discuss common challenges

Greece's housing crisis and the Golden Visa scheme

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 8 Feb 2024 10:09:41 +0000

Over the past years Greece has seen a sharp increase in home prices and rents, with many talking about a housing crisis as Greeks are being priced out of the property market. This has put the spotlight on the Golden Visa scheme. Yiannis Mouzakis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, a political and economic analysis site that focuses on Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Greece’s housing crisis and the Golden Visa scheme. We also explore whether it's time, now that the Greek economy has returned to a much more stable path, for Greece to rethink this scheme and take bold steps to address this crisis.

Read Yiannis Mouzakis’ latest here: Time running out for Golden Visa as housing problems increase

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Farmers intensify protests, block highways

Private universities bill unveiled

A year after Turkey's devastating earthquakes

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 7 Feb 2024 10:24:15 +0000

One year ago southeastern Turkey was devastated by a series of powerful earthquakes that killed tens of thousands and left even more without homes. It also ushered in a period of calm in the Aegean, as Greece was quick to assist its Turkish neighbors. A year later, the magnitude of this disaster continues to not only defy massive recovery efforts, but also impact Turkey’s relations with Greece. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition and Politico’s Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss a recent trip with a team of international journalists to southeast Turkey that looked into the ways this earthquake continues to impact Turkey and the region.

Read Nektaria Stamouli’s latest for Kathimerini here: Turkey, a year after the life-changing earthquakes

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Vanished kids and rampant corruption: Horrors behind Turkey’s earthquake linger

Greek-Turkish ties could hit some snags

UN Cyprus envoy discusses obstacles with PM

Turkey revives plan to convert another iconic Byzantine site into a mosque

Is the return of the Parthenon Sculptures all but inevitable?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 6 Feb 2024 07:41:52 +0000

While no major news on the Parthenon Sculptures has emerged since British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s infamous snub of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in late last year, the incident reinvigorated the debate around the return of the Sculptures to their home in Athens. Nikos Efstathiou, who was just in London reporting on the issue for Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the sentiment in London, and why the return of the Parthenon Sculptures seems all but inevitable.

Read Nikos Efstathiou’s latest piece in Kathimerini here: In London, the return of the Parthenon Sculptures seems all but inevitable

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece will not compromise ‘core positions,’ say sources

Greek-Turkish ties could hit some snags

Gov’t rules out additional support for farmers

Farmers unsatisfied with government measures

Under pressure? Mitsotakis faces farmer protests, student demonstrations, and the polls

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 3 Feb 2024 08:53:29 +0000

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and his cabinet have been under pressure these past days, as farmers and students across the country have taken to the streets in protest. This comes as Mitsotakis also prepares to pass a key marriage equality bill this month, and as the latest polls show a slight drop in support for New Democracy and the government. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, a political and economic analysis site that focuses on Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to look at these challenges and break down how they could impact the Mitsotakis government.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Strong public support for farmers adds to pressure on PM for more measures

Why are farmers protesting across the EU and what can the bloc do about it?

Students and police clash in Greece as debate rages over legalizing private universities

Holy Synod warns of impact on family in letter to MPs

Athens airport IPO attracts strong demand after two-year lull in Europe

Athens Airport IPO Caps String of Events Showing Greece Is Back

British Museum director backs Parthenon Marbles loan plan

Turkey Israel: 'Seven arrested for passing information to Mossad'

Greece and the EU naval operation in the Red Sea

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 2 Feb 2024 10:06:06 +0000

After a proposal by Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias, Greece is set to serve as the headquarters of the EU naval operation in the Red Sea against Iranian-backed Houthi militants dubbed operation Aspides. At the same time, Greece has also proposed taking command of the mission. Revecca Pedi, an associate professor of international relations at the University of Macedonia in Thessaloniki, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this latest initiative from Athens, and break down the message it sends as Greece looks to take on more important and impactful roles in the region and within the EU.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

EU Red Sea operation HQ to be in Larissa

EU naval mission to protect ships in Red Sea set to be launched on 19 February

Students and police clash in Greece as debate rages over legalizing private universities

Clashes erupt at Greek protest against education reform

Greece hit record high green energy output last year

The standoff between Brussels and Hungary, aid to Ukraine, and the view from Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 18:12:51 +0000

On Thursday European leaders will look to overcome growing resistance to further aid for Ukraine, with Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban vowing to defy EU pressure to approve a four-year €50 billion aid package to the war torn country. EU support is seen as crucial to Ukraine’s war effort. John Psaropoulos, an independent journalist based in Athens and Al Jazeera's Southeast Europe correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the stakes for Ukraine and why Orban is insisting on this standoff. We also break down the view from Greece, with Prime Minister Mitsotakis reiterating this week that Athens remains committed to supporting Ukraine.

Read John Psaropoulos’ latest here: Ukraine funding, Orban’s opposition set to dominate crucial EU summit

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece proposes command of EU naval mission in Red Sea

EU aiming to launch Red Sea naval mission by mid-Feb

Erdogan to Visit Egypt to Reboot Ties After Decade-Long Friction

US policy in Syria and the Middle East amid escalating tensions with Iran

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 10:01:59 +0000

In a major escalation in the Middle East crisis, three US service members were killed and dozens more injured in a drone strike on the Syrian-Jordanian border by the Iranian-backed Islamic Resistance. This comes as attacks on US personnel in Iraq and Syria have surged since October, and as Washington has been debating a full withdrawal from Syria. Amberin Zaman, Al-Monitor’s chief correspondent covering major stories on the Middle East and North Africa, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this latest deadly attack, what it could mean for the region, and what a potential US withdrawal from Syria would mean for America’s partners on the ground - the Syrian Kurds - and for the fight against ISIS.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

U.S. troops killed, wounded in Jordan attack blamed on Iranian proxies

Pentagon floats plan for its Syrian Kurd allies to partner with Assad against ISIS

America Is Planning to Withdraw From Syria—and Create a Disaster

US opens F-35 window to Ankara

US ready to welcome Turkey ‘back into F-35 family’ if S-400 issue is resolved

Russia's attempts to split the Orthodox Church in Africa

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 08:43:38 +0000

In 2019 the Greek Orthodox Patriarchs of Constantinople and Alexandria recognised the independence of the newly formed Orthodox Church of Ukraine. Since then, Moscow has attempted to undermine not only the Ecumenical Patriarchate, but also the Patriarch of Alexandria, which claims exclusive jurisdiction over Africa and accuses the Russian church of meddling in the continent. Prof. George Demacopoulos joins Thanos Davelis to explore why Russia is trying to split the Orthodox Church in Africa, and explain why this should be viewed as part of a larger Russian project whereby Putin uses the church to advance his own global ambitions.

Prof. Demacopoulos is the Fr. John Meyendorff & Patterson Family Chair of Orthodox Christian Studies at Fordham University. He is Co-Founding Director of Fordham’s Orthodox Christian Studies Center and Co-Founding Editor of the Journal of Orthodox Christian Studies.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Russia’s plan to seduce Christians in Africa

Albanian appeals court rejects Beleri’s request to take oath

Hungary vows to defy EU ‘blackmail’ over Ukraine funding

Brussels threatens to hit Hungary’s economy if Viktor Orbán vetoes Ukraine aid

US green lights sale of F-35s to Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 27 Jan 2024 11:15:33 +0000

After over a year of delays, the Biden administration on Friday formally informed Congress of its intention to proceed with a deal to sell F-35 stealth fighter jets to Greece. At the same time, it also notified Congress of the sale of F-16 fighter jets to Turkey. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has described this move as an important milestone for Greece and for US-Greece relations. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest analysis from Athens as we look at what this means for Greece, US-Greece relations, and more.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

US advances fighter jet sale to Greece, Turkey; Congress likely to approve

Chair Cardin Welcomes Turkey’s Action on Sweden’s NATO Accession, Approves Sale of F-16s to Turkey, Expresses Concern on New Hungarian Intransigence

Athens irked by US delays in arms timetable

Cyprus offers measures to support estranged Turkish Cypriots

Block on Turkish Cypriot mixed marriages for citizenship lifted

Sustainability and tourism in Greece's Cyclades islands

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 10:32:15 +0000

While the tourism boom in Greece over the last years can be felt across the country, its epicenter is a group of islands in the Aegean known as the Cyclades. The tourism boom is also fueling seemingly nonstop development on the islands, putting the focus on the sustainability of this development model. Yannis Palaiologos, a journalist at large with Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss how tourism and frantic development is impacting Greece’s most popular islands, and look into the efforts of a relatively new initiative called the Sustainable Cyclades project, which aims to put a spotlight on these issues.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The Sustainable Cyclades project

As Development Alters Greek Islands’ Nature and Culture, Locals Push Back

Turkey's Edrogan signs off on Sweden's NATO membership

#NoJetsForTurkey coalition calls for US Congress scrutiny of F-16 sale

Students in Greece protest plans to introduce private universities

The lessons from Erdogan's handling of Sweden's NATO bid

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 10:02:06 +0000

Turkey’s Parliament voted on Tuesday to approve Sweden’s membership into NATO, clearing one of the final hurdles for a major expansion of the military alliance. The move comes after nearly two years of Ankara setting roadblocks and delaying Sweden’s swift accession to the NATO alliance. Despite Tuesday’s vote Sweden’s accession is not yet guaranteed. Henri Barkey, the Cohen Professor of International Relations at Lehigh University and Adjunct Senior Fellow for Middle East Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this latest move by Turkey’s Parliament and look at the lessons US policymakers should walk away with from Erdogan’s handling of Sweden’s NATO accession.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey Backs Sweden’s NATO Bid

Turkey votes in favor of Sweden’s NATO membership after months of delay

Biden urges US Congress to approve F-16 sale to Turkey 'without delay'

Government aims to secure at least 120 Conservative votes

Greece's comeback and the demographic challenge

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 08:55:03 +0000

As Greece bounces back from a decade of economic crisis, earning praise in headlines and features across the board - from The Economist to the Wall Street Journal - it is also up against a series of challenges. One of those is the demographic challenge, which has been described as existential. Nikos Konstandaras, a columnist for Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to break down how Greece, given the position it finds itself in today, has a unique window of opportunity to push key reforms forward that would go a long way toward tackling some of the key challenges the country is up against.

Read Nikos Konstandaras’ latest in Kathimerini: Facing the future and ourselves

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey Backs Sweden’s NATO Bid

Parties clash over emigrant postal voting bill

Cabinet to discuss same-sex marriage bill on Wednesday

Is postal voting a step towards deepening Greek democracy?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 10:50:28 +0000

On Monday Greece introduced a bill that would allow for voting by mail, a long-standing request of diaspora Greeks and a measure that has been applied in almost all modern democracies. Interior Minister Niki Kerameus said the reform will make it easier to exercise the right to vote and will deepen democracy. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English edition, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this latest step by the Mitsotakis government, and break down what it could mean for Greek democracy and for diaspora Greeks.

Read Tom Ellis’ latest in Kathimerini: On the mail-in vote

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Postal voting will ‘deepen democracy’

Postal voting bill amendment seeks inclusion of Greeks abroad in national elections

Mitsotakis, Blinken discuss developments in Gaza and the Red Sea

Turkey Parliament Set to Vote on Sweden’s NAT0 Bid This Week

Congress focuses on Cyprus as Mitsotakis prepares for US visit

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 20 Jan 2024 01:15:59 +0000

This week the leaders of the Hellenic Caucus in Congress sent a letter to President Biden calling on him to invite President Christodoulides to the White House to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus. They also urged the Biden administration to take a series of steps that could take the US-Cyprus relationship to new heights. In the meantime, Prime Minister Mitsotakis will visit New York and Chicago next week, a visit that highlights Greece’s growing reputation beyond Washington. Endy Zemenides, HALC’s Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis to break down the latest developments on Cyprus in Washington, and provide a look ahead at Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ upcoming visit to the US.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Sarbanes, Hellenic Caucus Leaders Urge President Biden to Formally Invite the President of Cyprus to the White House to Mark 50th Anniversary of Turkish Invasion of Cyprus

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Greece's Economic Comeback

Gov’t rules out referendum on same-sex marriage bill

Ieronymos says referendum could be held on same-sex civil marriages

Greece to Sell ‘Significant’ Stake in Piraeus Bank in Months (1)

Mitsotakis says he wants Greece to become exporter of green energy

Marriage equality bill rattle's Greece's political scene

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 10:32:27 +0000

As Greece’s government looks set to get marriage equality legislation over the finish line, the bill itself has managed to rattle Greece’s political system - particularly within New Democracy, Greece’s ruling party. Given dissent within New Democracy over the bill, the government will need to look across the aisle to pass it. Nikos Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this bill, look at how it's impacting Greece’s political scene, and touch on the broader public debate around the issue of marriage equality - including hate speech on social media platforms.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Government to bring forward bill on marriage equality

Same-sex marriage spices up Greece’s political scene

Tiptoeing into same-sex marriage

Greek students protest government plan for private universities

Hellenic Caucus leaders call on US president to commemorate 50th anniversary of Cyprus invasion

Read the letter Hellenic Caucus leaders sent to President Biden

Greece and the seemingly unstoppable rise of tourism

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 09:30:53 +0000

The seemingly unstoppable rise of tourism is transforming countries in ways that until recently belonged to the realm of the imagination. Greece is no exception, as it’s among the places most affected by this trend. Professor Stathis Kalyvas, the chairman of the Board of Directors at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center and Gladstone Professor of Government at the University of Oxford’s Department of Politics and International Relations, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how the rise of tourism is changing Greece, and what challenges this poses for the country in the coming years.

Read Prof. Stathis Kalyvas’ latest in Kathimerini: What does the tourist boom mean for Greece?

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Athens blocking EU-Tirana defense pact

FM Gerapetritis: Situation in Gaza requires immediate action

Why Erdogan should not be rewarded with a White House visit

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 09:38:10 +0000

About a week ago Secretary of State Antony Blinken traveled to Turkey, where he met with Turkish President Erdogan. Diplomatic sources said Blinken arrived bearing potential gifts to entice Turkey to wrap up the issue of Sweden’s NATO membership. These included everything from new ways to provide F-16s to Turkey to a White House visit for Turkish President Erdogan. Michael Rubin, the director of policy analysis at the Middle East Forum, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, and a former Pentagon official, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why rewarding Erdogan for actions that responsible governments do without enticement only encourages blackmail.

Read Michael Rubin’s latest here: No, Erdogan should never again step foot in the White House

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greek government plans Athens airport IPO to sell 30% stake

Irregular border crossings at an eight-year high in 2023, says Frontex

A new era for Greece's armed forces?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 10:58:07 +0000

Greece’s Defense Minister Nikos Dendias recently outlined a new approach for how the Greek armed forces will be run, calling it “the armed forces of 2030”. Part of this new approach includes bolstering Greece’s defense industry, as Dendias noted that Greece cannot continue to buy everything it needs from abroad without producing anything of its own. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the key takeaways from his exclusive interview with Defense Minister Dendias, and give us an inside look at the changes Greece is looking to implement.

Read Vassilis Nedos interview with Defense Minister Dendias: We can’t keep buying off the shelf

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece appeals to Iran for captured tanker

Turkey serving as ‘de facto executive arm of Hamas,’ Israel’s Gallant says

Sagiv Jehezkel: Israel footballer leaves Turkey after hostage plea row

Israeli footballer censured in Turkey for October 7 tribute returns home

Why the US needs to play "hardball" with Turkey's Erdogan

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 13 Jan 2024 11:11:35 +0000

This new year finds Washington in a bind over how to effectively engage with Turkey, a trend we’ve documented for at least half a decade. The tug of war over Sweden and F16s, and Ankara’s stance on the Arab-Israeli conflict, are the latest examples of this. Expert Sinan Ciddi joins Thanos Davelis to break down why a tough stance toward Ankara - setting clear parameters and enforcing them relentlessly - is the only way to defend US regional interests and stop Erdogan’s mercurial and manipulative policies.

Read Sinan Ciddi’s latest here:

The United States Needs to Play Hardball With Turkey

Erdogan’s electoral strategy for 2024: Vilify Israel

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Iran, Russia decry Houthi strikes; Erdogan: US, UK want to turn Red Sea into bloodbath

Erdogan accuses U.S., Britain of trying to turn Red Sea into 'sea of blood'

Greek PM faces fierce opposition over pledge to legalise gay marriage

Greek prime minister says legislation allowing same-sex marriage will be presented soon

Samaras rejects idea that ND MPs opposed to same-sex marriage abstain from vote

Greece's vaccine policy sparks debate amid spike in Covid infections

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 09:44:46 +0000

Greece’s government announced on Wednesday it will scrap all the fines imposed on the elderly who never got vaccinated against Covid-19, a move which has sparked heated debate in Greece. The decision comes amid a simultaneous outbreak of three respiratory infections, including Covid-19 and influenza. Nektaria Stamouli, the deputy editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition and Politico’s Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this latest move by the government, look at the reactions it has sparked, and break down how this new wave of infections is impacting the country.

Read Nektaria Stamouli’s latest article in Kathimerini: From fines to ‘olive branch’, government scraps vaccine policy

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Poll confirms ND’s dominance, support for private universities

Greek government’s plans to legalize same-sex marriage win key opposition backing

Cyprus sees significant impact on shipping from Houthis

Prospects for Greek-Turkish relations in 2024

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 21:05:53 +0000

Over a year ago there were concerns that Turkey’s provocations and threats in the Aegean could turn into conflict. Over the last year, Turkey’s President Erdogan has pulled a 180 degree shift in policy, de-escalating tensions. Ryan Gingeras, a professor in the Department of National Security Affairs at the Naval Postgraduate School and an expert on Turkish, Balkan, and Middle East history, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the prospects for Greek-Turkish relations in 2024, the role of Washington, and what to expect in US-Turkey ties as the year unfolds.

Read Ryan Gingeras’ latest interview with Kathimerini here: Prospects for Greek-Turkish relations to emerge clearly by spring

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Gov’t unveils new measures to combat soaring prices

UN's new special envoy heads to Cyprus in early February

The far-right on the rise ahead of EU elections in June

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 9 Jan 2024 21:58:02 +0000

As Europeans prepare to head to the polls in June to vote for the European Parliament, there is a growing concern as far-right parties are making gains across the continent. We have seen far right candidates win elections in the Netherlands, while France’s National Rally and the German Alternative for Germany are gaining in popularity amid concerns over migration and inflation. Alexandra Voudouri, Kathimerini's Brussels correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what’s at stake this year in Europe’s elections, and whether this growing support for the far-right could turn into a political tsunami by June.

Read Alexandra Voudouri’s latest for Kathimerini: Κινδυνεύει η Ε.E. από ακροδεξιό «τσουνάμι»;

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Visualizing 2024: Trends to Watch

Make or break for the EU? Europeans vote in June with far right on the rise

EU elections could be major turning point for Europe's far-right

PM vows to accelerate reforms in meeting with cabinet

PM champions Greece’s success in curbing irregular migration

EU Commissioner Johansson stresses need for migrants to address EU’s labor shortage

Blinken meets with Mitsotakis in Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 9 Jan 2024 10:16:09 +0000

Secretary of State Antony Blinken was in Greece this weekend, and he and Prime Minister Mitsotakis once again highlighted how Greece-US relations are at their best, with both countries standing together in the face of some of the most acute challenges in the region. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to break down the key takeaways from Secretary Blinken’s latest visit to Greece, and explain why it is time to apply the Biden Administration’s domestic mantra - “Build back better” - to its foreign policy, particularly its ties with Greece.

Read Endy Zemenides’ latest piece in Kathimerini here: Blinken should build back better when he meets Mitsotakis

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

‘We are standing together,’ says Blinken during meeting with Greek PM

Cyprus replaces defense, health, justice, farm ministers in reshuffle

Greek bonds coming highly recommended

What the US presidential elections could mean for Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 5 Jan 2024 23:08:00 +0000

2024 will see more than four billion people across three dozen countries head to the polls, in what the Washington Post has described as possibly “the greatest rolling spectacle of democracy in human history.” The stakes will be high in many countries, but all eyes, including in Greece, will be on the US elections as the latest polls suggest we may be in for a repeat of the 2020 election between President Biden and former President Trump. Constantinos Filis, the Director of the Institute of Global Affairs and an associate professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the upcoming US elections, and break down what they could mean for Greece and the US-Greek relationship.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Να φοβάται η Αθήνα τις κάλπες στις ΗΠΑ;

2024 brings wave of elections with global democracy on the ballot

Ten Elections to Watch in 2024

PM champions restored Palace of Aigai for worldwide heritage, catalyst for growth

Leaders embrace appointment of UN envoy

Cuellar announced as UN ‘personal envoy’ to Cyprus

Mitsotakis sets the tone for 2024 with mini cabinet reshuffle ahead of reforms

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 4 Jan 2024 23:24:08 +0000

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis set the tone for the new year this week, announcing a mini cabinet reshuffle aimed at boosting his government ahead of expected reforms. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English edition, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what we should expect following this reshuffle and look at Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ agenda for 2024, which includes passing key legislation permitting non-state universities in Greece, allowing for postal voting, and legalizing same-sex marriage.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greek PM sacks police minister in mini reshuffle, key posts unchanged

Greek government says it stands by same-sex marriage pledge even after opposition from the Church

Mini cabinet reshuffle announced, key posts unchanged

Blinken’s visit to Greece confirmed

Blinken heads to the Mideast again as fears of regional conflict surge

The increasingly volatile crisis unfolding in the Red Sea

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 3 Jan 2024 23:44:14 +0000

On Wednesday the US and a host of international allies warned that Iran-backed Houthi militants will face “consequences” if they continue to “threaten lives” and disrupt trade in the Red Sea. Earlier this week, what’s become an increasingly volatile crisis gained a new dimension as Iran sent a warship to the region, escalating tensions. Bradley Bowman, the senior director of the Center on Military and Political Power at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the big picture amid escalating tensions in the Red Sea, including what this could mean for the Eastern Mediterranean.

Read Brad Bowman’s latest snapshot for FDD here: Iran Deploys Warship to Red Sea As Houthis Continue Attacks

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

US and allies warn Houthis of ‘consequences’ as Red Sea crisis intensifies

Iranian warship enters Red Sea as tensions rise

Maersk halts Red Sea shipping until further notice after Houthi militant attack

Mini cabinet reshuffle announced, key posts unchanged

Blinken expected to visit Greece, sources say

Stuck in the middle: Washington's Turkey problem and Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 2 Jan 2024 23:44:37 +0000

It seemed Sweden was ready to cross the finish line last week, with the stage set for Turkey’s parliament to vote on Sweden’s NATO bid. At the 11th hour, however, Turkey introduced new demands over its request for F-16s. This has put Washington in a bind, as for months the issue of F-16s to Turkey seems to have been linked to the sale of F-35s to Greece. Lena Argiri, the DC correspondent for ERT - Greece’s public broadcaster - and a contributor to Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis from Washington with the latest analysis on Sweden, Turkey and the US, and breaks down why Washington may not be able to afford delaying the sale of F-35s to Greece much longer.

Read Lena Argiri’s latest here in Kathimerini here: Το άγνωστο τελεσίγραφο Μπλίνκεν σε Φιντάν για τα F-16

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Screened in Cyprus, British and Cypriot aid heads to Gaza via Egypt

Turkey says UK minehunters can’t be sent to Ukraine

Turkey to block minehunter ships intended for Ukraine

Greece and the Red Sea crisis

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 19:42:13 +0000

The US has put together an international armada to deter Iranian-backed Houthi militias from Yemen from attacking shipping in the Red Sea, and this week Greece announced that it will participate in this US led mission - dubbed Operation Prosperity Guardian. Nikolas Katsimpras, a lecturer in Columbia University’s Negotiation and Conflict Resolution Program, an international affairs consultant, a veteran officer of the Hellenic Navy, and a contributor to Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the Red Sea crisis, look at why it’s significant from Greece’s perspective, and break down why is it important that Greece plays an active role in this effort.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greek frigate to join Prosperity Guardian

How Houthi rebels are threatening global trade nexus on Red Sea

Ships rerouted by Red Sea crisis face overwhelmed African ports

Shippers have already diverted over $80 billion in cargo from the Red Sea amid fears of attacks

Greece plans to raise up to €10 bln from debt markets in 2024

Turkey Puts Sweden’s NATO Bid Back on Agenda Next Week

Turkish commission to meet next week to discuss Swedish NATO bid

EU reaches "historic" deal on migration and asylum

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 02:23:17 +0000

The European Union on Wednesday broke years of political deadlock, striking a landmark deal on migration as negotiators worked through the night to agree on the overhaul of the bloc’s asylum procedures. The breakthrough was hailed as “historic” by EU leaders. Angeliki Dimitriadi, the head of the migration program at ELIAMEP, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this new migration deal, and break down what it means for frontline states like Greece and Cyprus.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

EU strikes ‘historic’ migration deal

Migration is derailing leaders from Biden to Macron. Who’s next?

Migration pact meets key Greek demands

Dendias: Greece will dispatch frigate to Red Sea

Israel, Cyprus discuss ‘fast track’ maritime lane for aid to Gaza

F35s, Greece, and Washington's dysfunctional relationship with Turkey

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 07:08:08 +0000

It's been almost one year since the State Department notified Congress of the potential F-35 sale to Greece. Unfortunately, the sale has still yet to move forward. This delay coincides with Turkish President Erdogan’s attempts to use Sweden’s NATO membership to pressure the US over the sale of F16s. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the HALC, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the efforts to move the F35 sale to Greece forward, and break down why progress in Greek-American relations should not be affected by the dysfunctional relationship between the US and Turkey.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Complete the sale of F-35s to Greece

Turkey links Sweden’s NATO bid to US approving F-16 jet sales and Canada lifting arms embargo

Turkey says Canada, US linking drone-camera exports to Sweden NATO membership

Congress presses State Department on Turkey’s drone program

Greece approves new law granting undocumented migrants residence rights, provided they have a job

Fiscal reforms agreed by EU governments

Greece: The top economic performer of 2023

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 18:57:01 +0000

For the second year in a row The Economist once again listed Greece as the top economic performer of the year out of a list of 35 countries, beating the likes of the United States, the UK, Germany, and Japan. Alex Patelis, the chief economic adviser to Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, joins Thanos Davelis to look at Greece’s economic performance over the last year, and break down why we should expect Greece’s economy to continue to outperform in the coming year.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Which economy did best in 2023?

MPs OK 2024 budget

Greece Plans Sale of Up to €10 Billion in Bonds After Upgrade

Turkey links Sweden’s NATO bid to US approving F-16 jet sales and Canada lifting arms embargo

Erdogan says signals from US, Canada may help Turkey move on Sweden NATO bid

Cyprus says a joint operation with Mossad has foiled a suspected Iranian plot to kill Israelis

From the Western Balkans to Ukraine: Is EU enlargement fashionable again?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 18:42:26 +0000

Last week European leaders focused on EU enlargement, from the Western Balkans to Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia. While the EU wants closer ties with these countries, it has also made it clear that it expects reforms, particularly when it comes to issues related to the rule of law and justice. Dimitar Bechev, a research fellow at Carnegie Europe, where he focuses on Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe and a lecturer at Oxford’s School of Global and Area Studies, joins Thanos Davelis to look at these latest developments, and break down why he believes there are no quick fixes for EU enlargement.

Read Dimitar Bechev’s latest here: There Are No Quick Fixes for EU Enlargement

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

EU wants closer ties to Western Balkans but expects reform

Greece passes 2024 budget forecasting higher growth

Greek parliament passes government's 2024 budget

US top diplomat Blinken ups pressure on Turkey to secure Sweden’s NATO bid

Turkey calls on U.S. to use influence to halt Israeli attacks on Gaza -Turkish source

Berlin, Athens, and the Beleri case

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 10:26:32 +0000

As EU leaders meet in Brussels this week, their focus is largely on Ukraine and its ties to the EU. In the buildup to the summit, however, the Western Balkans also caught their attention. This includes the case of Albania and the imprisoned mayor-elect of Himare Fredi Beleri, which has not only caused a rift in Greek-Albanian relations, but also between Athens and Berlin this week. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest analysis.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Athens sends new message to Tirana

Berlin backs Albania’s EU bid despite Athens’ opposition over jailed mayor

Albania needs to boost rights of minorities, EU GAC says

EU leaders approve Ukraine accession talks, bypassing Orbán

Cyprus calls for EU rethink on Syria migration as refugee numbers rise

Greek soccer goes behind closed doors amid crackdown on fan violence

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 10:29:43 +0000

All top-flight soccer matches in Greece will be played without fans in the stadiums for the next two months, as the focus in Greece once again turns to cracking down on supporter violence following a series of violent incidents at matches. Nikos Efstathiou, an Athens based journalist and author, joins Thanos Davelis to explore the issue of fan violence in Greece, and look at the government’s latest efforts to crack down on it.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greek football goes behind closed doors for two months

In latest crackdown on violence, Greece bans fans at all top-flight matches for two months

Greece bans all football fans from Super League games following wave of 'extreme violence'

Berlin backs Albania’s EU bid despite Athens’ opposition over jailed mayor

Athens sends new message to Tirana

Greece going green

How Greece slashed its unemployment rate

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 09:09:40 +0000

One of the key figures that captured the hardship of the decade-long economic crisis in Greece was the unemployment rate, which peaked at 28 percent in the summer of 2013. Today, the latest statistics show that Greece’s unemployment rate has fallen below 10 percent for the first time since the onset of the crisis. Yiannis Mouzakis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, a political and economic analysis site that focuses on Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to break down how Greece brought down its unemployment rate, and how it can keep this momentum going.

Read Yiannis Mouzakis latest analysis here: How Greece reduced its unemployment rate to less than 10 pct

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

US hits Turkish and Chinese companies over Russia trade

Israel says it helped foil Iranian-ordered attack on Israelis in Cyprus

Is Erdogan's “transformation” vis-a-vis Greece genuine?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 10:26:54 +0000

Last week we heard Turkish President Erdogan, who once declared that Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis “no longer exists” for him, now call him his “friend Kyriakos”. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to break down whether this “transformation” on the part of Turkey’s leader is genuine, and explain why it’s important that the Greek public understand how the US factored into this transformation.

Read Endy Zemenides’ latest in Kathimerini: A genuine transformation?

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Beleri oath request gets rejected

Albanian PM defiant over Beleri issue

In latest crackdown on violence, Greece bans fans at all top-flight matches for two months

Government unveils measures against sports fan violence

Is it time to reconsider Turkey's NATO membership?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 9 Dec 2023 10:36:10 +0000

Is it time to reconsider Turkey’s NATO membership? With the alliance having to constantly grapple with an uncooperative and at times even combative Turkish leader in President Erdogan, the question is as timely as ever. Expert Sinan Ciddi joins Thanos Davelis to look at why this discussion needs to take place and explore how NATO members can deal with a country that seems devoted to undermining the trans-Atlantic alliance.

Read Sinan Ciddi’s latest in Foreign Policy Magazine: It’s Time to Reconsider Turkey’s NATO Membership

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

US ‘profoundly’ worried over Turkey’s financial links to Hamas

Erdogan Does Not Care About the Palestinians

Members of Congress press Britain to return the Parthenon Sculptures

Tell Prime Minister Sunak: Return the Parthenon Sculptures!

Greek soccer matches postponed after clashes leave police officer in critical condition

Mitsotakis and Erdogan commit to "calm waters" in the Aegean

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 8 Dec 2023 10:03:02 +0000

All eyes were on Athens on Thursday as Prime Minister Mitsotakis met with Turkey’s President Erdogan, with the two leaders reiterating their commitment to “calm waters” in the Aegean. John Psaropoulos, an independent journalist based in Athens and Al Jazeera’s Southeast Europe correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the key takeaways from President Erdogan’s visit to Athens, including whether we are witnessing the beginning of a reset in relations after years of tensions.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Mitsotakis, Erdogan commit to lasting calm

Agreements inked between Greece, Turkey

Positive signals from Ankara

Bonds to woo big investors

Construction of cable connecting power grids of Greece and Cyprus set to start next year

The Greeks of Egypt: A bridge between Europe and the Middle East

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 7 Dec 2023 10:04:50 +0000

With diplomatic relations between Greece and Egypt deepening over the last years, there has been a renewed focus on the ties binding these two Mediterranean countries. One link that is back in the spotlight is the historic Greek community in Egypt, which for the last 200 years has maintained ties with homelands on both sides of the Mediterranean Sea. Steven Tagle and Professor Alexander Kitroeff join Thanos Davelis to look into this dynamic community and explore how their historical role as a bridge between Europe and the Middle East is all the more important today.

Steven Tagle is a fellow from the Institute of Current World Affairs funded by the Stavros Niarchos Foundation. He previously served as speechwriter for the US Embassy in Athens and as a Fulbright Fellow in Greece.

Prof. Alexander Kitroeff is a Professor of History at Haverford College who has written extensively on the history of Greece and the Greek diaspora. He is the author of the book: The Greeks and the Making of Modern Egypt

Read Steven Tagle’s latest piece here: Letter from Egypt: Historical ties to Greece hold fast

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Mitsotakis, Erdogan meet with open cards

Erdogan’s points

US experts are in Cyprus to assist police investigating alleged sanctions evasion by Russians

Preparing for Erdogan's visit to Athens

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 6 Dec 2023 07:39:20 +0000

Athens will take center stage on Thursday as Turkey’s President Erdogan visits Greece’s capital to meet with Prime Minister Mitsotakis amid a sense of reserved optimism. While observers do not expect much movement on the thorny issues in the relationship, Athens is looking forward to a continuation of “calm waters” in the Aegean and to implementing a positive agenda. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English Edition, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what we should look out for ahead of Erdogan’s visit to Athens.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Waiting for Erdogan

Erdogan: International Court for all problems

Armament programs to be streamlined

Cyprus in diplomatic shuttle in trying to get aid into Gaza

Christodoulides meets Egypt, Jordan leaders to discuss Gaza

Mitsotakis at COP28: Renewables and the "new Greece" that is emerging

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 5 Dec 2023 09:50:58 +0000

This weekend at COP28 Prime Minister Mitsotakis stated that despite the “climate devastation” experienced this year “a new Greece is emerging” that will see renewables, where Greece had “one of the best performances of any European country,” take center stage. Nikos Tsafos, the chief energy advisor to the Prime Minister of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this Greek success story and look at how renewable energy investments - from wind and solar to green islands - are changing Greece’s energy mix and redrawing the region’s energy map.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Mitsotakis at COP28: Despite climate devastation, a ‘new Greece is emerging’

Poros to be Greece’s third ‘green’ island

‘New Left’: the 11 MPs who left SYRIZA announce their party

Greece will make no concessions on its sovereign rights, Athens says ahead of Erdogan visit

The next steps after Erdogan’s visit

200 years later: The Monroe Doctrine, the Greek Revolution, and US-Greece ties

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 2 Dec 2023 07:30:26 +0000

Exactly 200 years ago, President Monroe outlined what became known as the Monroe doctrine, a doctrine that framed US foreign policy for nearly a century. Just as Monroe was formulating this new policy, however, an unexpected event occurred: The Greek Revolution. Professor Aristotle Tziampiris, the author of the recent book The Monroe Doctrine and the Greek Revolution, joins Thanos Davelis on the 200 year anniversary of the Monroe Doctrine to look at how the Greek fight for independence captivated the American public, the role it played in the formulation of the Monroe Doctrine, and they ways in which the “Greek Fire” and the Monroe Doctrine set the framework that has come to define US-Greek relations for almost two centuries.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The Monroe Doctrine and the Greek Revolution

What Joe Biden Can Learn from the Greek War of Independence

Cyprus and Chevron reach a deal to develop an offshore natural gas field, ending years of delays

Fitch Upgrades Greece to 'BBB-'; Outlook Stable

Fitch Ratings returns Greece to investment class

Lessons from Kissinger's legacy in Cyprus and the East Med

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 1 Dec 2023 07:21:08 +0000

Henry Kissinger, the controversial former US National Security Advisor and Secretary of State, passed away on Wednesday, aged 100. He was both celebrated and reviled, receiving the Nobel Peace Prize while being roundly condemned by many as a war criminal. The regions and conflicts that Kissinger intervened in, leaving a dark legacy, include Cyprus, where the former Secretary of State normalized US appeasement of Turkey almost a half-century ago when he secretly backed Turkey’s invasion of the island. Michael Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and former Pentagon official, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss Kissinger’s legacy, particularly in Cyprus and the Eastern Mediterranean, and look at the lessons it holds for policymakers today.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Henry Kissinger: Divisive diplomat who shaped world affairs

Henry Kissinger’s Inflated Reputation

Henry Kissinger Should Apologize for Serving Turkish Imperialism

Henry Kissinger’s long history of appeasing dictatorships

Erdogan wants ‘new page’ with Athens

US ‘profoundly’ worried over Turkey’s financial links to Hamas

Greece makes it clear: Albania's EU hopes hinge on Beleri case

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 08:31:54 +0000

On Wednesday Greece filed a written statement with the Council of the European Union stating it will not support Albania’s EU accession process as long as the case of the imprisoned ethnic Greek mayor elect of Himare, Fredi Beleri, remains unresolved. The move comes as Greece has come under EU pressure over Albania. Athens has made it clear, however, that its stance on the Beleri case is about defending European principles as it has to do with respect for the rule of law. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest analysis on the diplomatic initiatives underway over the Beleri case.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Albania’s EU hopes hinge on Beleri case, Athens says

Athens under EU pressure over Albania

Beleri oath request ruling next week

British PM fuels diplomatic dispute with Greece over Parthenon sculptures

PMQs: Rishi Sunak accuses Greek PM of grandstanding

Greece is a rising energy provider in SE Europe, says US envoy

Gas exports could quadruple

Britain's own goal over the Parthenon Sculptures

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 10:24:52 +0000

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s last minute cancellation of his meeting with Prime Minister Mitsotakis over the Parthenon Sculptures this week has caused a diplomatic row between Greece and the UK, with Athens calling Sunak’s decision “unprecedented” and “disrespectful.” Bruce Clark, a contributor to The Economist with a long expertise on Greece, the author of the recent book Athens, City of Wisdom, which dives into the story of Lord Elgin and the Parthenon Sculptures, and a member of The British Committee for the Reunification of the Parthenon Marbles (BCRPM), joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this latest move by Downing Street that is putting the issue of the Parthenon Sculptures back in the spotlight.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Britain’s pointless diplomatic faux pas with Greece

Athens accuses British PM Sunak of disrespect to Greeks as marbles row deepens

Greece denies promising not to raise Parthenon Sculptures on UK visit

Sunak cancellation politically motivated

Turkey expects to ratify Sweden's NATO accession 'within weeks' - Swedish minister

Erdogan to visit Budapest next month as Turkey and Hungary hold up Sweden’s membership in NATO

Athens under EU pressure over Albania

Greece prepares for upcoming Erdogan visit to Athens

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 28 Nov 2023 09:08:26 +0000

In about two weeks Minister Mitsotakis and Turkish President Erdogan will meet in Athens, marking the third meeting in five months between the two leaders. While the frequency of their meetings and the de-escalation of tensions are positives, the absence of tensions or conflict does not mean normalization and peace. Constantinos Filis, the Director of the Institute of Global Affairs and an associate professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what we should expect from the upcoming meeting between Prime Minister Mitsotakis and President Erdogan in Athens, and look at what Turkey’s distancing from the West means for Greece.

Read Constantinos Filis’ latest piece in Kathimerini: Ankara’s distancing and the challenge for Athens

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Silent anxiety before Erdogan visits Athens

Rishi Sunak snubs Greek PM in dispute over Elgin Marbles

Greek PM slams Sunak as row over Elgin Marbles escalates

Sunak cancels meeting with Mitsotakis in London

Turkey’s exports of military-linked goods to Russia soar

Greek floods and wildfires a wake up call for climate action?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 11:06:47 +0000

This week Prime Minister Mitsotakis unveiled a recovery plan in wake of this summer’s deadly wildfires in Evros and catastrophic floods in Thessaly, outlining a series of initiatives to address the climate crisis. Expert Konstantina Karydi joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this plan and look at whether - despite the lack of critical investments across the globe when it comes to climate action and building resiliency - Greece is sending the message that it is ready to address the challenges posed by climate change.

Konstantina Karydi is the Managing Director of the Athens international office of Resilient Cities Catalyst as well as Executive Vice President of Climate Change Hub Greece. She is also a member of the Senior Experts Committee of the UNDRR Making Cities Resilient 2030 Campaign. Konstantina is an active citizen and as a volunteer is helping young leaders to grow and new organizations to increase their impact, most recently as founding advisor to Ecogenia.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

PM unveils recovery plan in wake of Evros fires, Thessaly floods

Greek floods and fires expose Europe's frail climate defences

COP28 Climate Summit in Dubai: What to Expect

Second SYRIZA faction to become independent as main opposition disintegrates

Turkey tells NATO that Sweden won't join by next week's meeting

Thanksgiving Talking Points from HALC

Cyprus ready to launch a maritime aid corridor for Gaza

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 07:50:49 +0000

On Monday Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides said Cyprus is fully ready to launch a maritime aid corridor for Gaza. Cyprus plans to use its port of Larnaca to gather international aid and send it on to Gaza, as it is one of the closest places in the EU to the Gaza Strip. Jack Parrock, Deutsche Welle’s EU correspondent who traveled to Larnaca last week to find out how this plan will work, joins Thanos Davelis to break down what it will take to get this humanitarian corridor up and running, and highlight how it’s putting a renewed spotlight on the strategic importance of Cyprus.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Getting humanitarian aid to Gaza by sea? Cyprus has a plan

Cyprus’ president says his country is ready to ship aid to Gaza once a go-ahead is given

Concern in Athens over Turkish statements

Tourism revenue up 15.2% to 18 billion euros, reports Bank of Greece

Greek economy seen growing by 2.9% next year on strong investment

Can PASOK overtake SYRIZA as Greece's main opposition?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 08:36:51 +0000

While SYRIZA is embroiled in an internal crisis that has seen key politicians ditch the party and even contemplate creating a new political grouping in parliament, the latest opinion polls show the center left PASOK overtaking left-wing SYRIZA for second place. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini’s English edition, joins Thanos Davelis to look at whether PASOK can build on this lead in the polls and take advantage of the crisis in SYRIZA to establish itself as Greece’s main opposition.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

PASOK is shown second in polls after 11 years

Αρθρο του Ε. Βαρδουλάκη στην «Κ»: Μπορεί το ΠΑΣΟΚ;

Cyprus president has invited foreign experts to help with Russian sanction evasion investigations

SYRIZA: ‘Umbrella’ hints at forming separate parliamentary group with ‘6+6’

‘6+6’ faction signals break from SYRIZA

SYRIZA chief urges Achtsioglou-led faction to decide on political future

The ongoing threats to religious sites in Turkey

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 18 Nov 2023 08:52:20 +0000

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom published an in-depth report this week examining threats to religious properties in Turkey, including places of worship, religious institutions, and cemeteries. This research looks at various threats and attacks over the last two decades and documents whether assailants were brought to justice. It also investigates the role of Turkish authorities in the protection of religious sites and the impact of government action, indifference, and negligence. Dr. Tuğba Tanyeri-Erdemir, the author of this report, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the threats to religious sites in Turkey, and break down how they impact religious groups across the country.

Dr. Tuğba Tanyeri-Erdemir is the coordinator of AntiDefamation League’s Task Force on Middle East Minorities. She is also a non-resident scholar at the Middle East Institute and the co-chair of International Religious Freedom Roundtable’s Middle East Working Group. Dr. Tanyeri Erdemir’s research focuses on minority rights in the Middle East, heritage management of sacred sites, converted and contested religious buildings, and re-utilization and museumification of religious heritage.

The views expressed in this interview are the speaker’s own and do not reflect the views of USCIRF.

Read Dr. Tugba Tanyeri Erdemir’s report for USCIRF: Examination of Threats to Religious Sites in Turkey

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Thousands march to mark 50th anniversary of student uprising

PM says Athens Polytechnic uprising a ‘beacon’ for democracy

Sakellaropoulou honors 50th anniversary of Athens Polytechnic uprising

Germany has ‘psychology of guilt’ when it comes to Holocaust, Israel, Erdoğan says

Scholz addresses 'differences' with Erdogan on Israel

Sweden's NATO bid delayed as Erdogan strains Turkey's ties with the West

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 07:55:08 +0000

The Turkish parliament's foreign affairs commission delayed a vote on Sweden's NATO membership bid on Thursday in a further setback to the Nordic country's hopes of joining the Western alliance after 18 months of delays that have left NATO allies frustrated. The move comes as Turkey’s President Erdogan prepares to visit Germany, has openly aired his desire to be hosted by Biden in Washington, is looking to purchase US F-16s, and doubles down on his support for Hamas while slamming the US, Israel, and the West. Sinan Ciddi and Endy Zemenides join Thanos Davelis to break down how Turkey’s holding up of Sweden’s NATO bid, its continued support for Hamas, and its lambasting of the West is playing out in Washington.

Endy Zemenides is the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkish parliamentary committee delays decision on Sweden’s NATO membership bid

Turkey’s parliament to debate Sweden’s NATO bid as Erdogan eyes Biden invite

Berlin braces for Erdoğan’s anti-Israel vitriol

Germany’s Scholz to Block Erdogan Plan to Buy Fighter Jets

Senate unanimously adopts bill blocking US military aid to Azerbaijan

US Senate passes measure blocking US military aid to Azerbaijan

Greece: From Europe's black sheep to a world leader in debt reduction

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 10:31:36 +0000

On Tuesday Prime Minister Mitsotakis highlighted to German Chanellor Olaf Scholz that Greece has the fastest rate of debt reduction in the world. From around 206% of GDP in 2020, Greek debt is expected to decline this year to around 160% of GDP, and this downward trajectory is expected to continue throughout the decade. Yannis Palaiologos, a journalist at large with Kathimerini and the author of the book The 13th Labour of Hercules: Inside the Greek Crisis, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how Greece has gone from the black sheep of Europe to becoming a leader in debt reduction, discuss how to keep this momentum going, and look at what broader lessons arise for both the EU and the US from Greece’s debt Odyssey.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece, a debt cut champion

With Grexit Averted, Guess Whose Debt Outperforms?

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ statements at the joint press conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin

EU countries are haggling over how to tackle high debt and deficit. Here's why it matters

Moody’s warning on the massive U.S. debt burden has turned into a nonevent

Athens taking bigger role in Gaza aid

Gerapetritis to visit Ramallah for meeting with PA officials

Turkey's Erdogan labels Israel a 'terror state', slams its backers in West

Turkey’s parliament to debate Sweden’s NATO bid as Erdogan eyes Biden invite

The changing dynamics in Greece's ties with Germany

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 10:32:26 +0000

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis was just in Germany, where he met with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Migration, Turkey, energy issues, and the Middle East dominated the discussion, while the economy, once the top issue dominating relations between Athens and Berlin, took a backseat, reflecting Greece’s significant progress from the dire financial crisis of the previous decade. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor who was just in Germany, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the changing dynamics in Greek-German relations, the key takeaways from the Mitsotakis-Scholz meeting, and more.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

PM, Scholz talk migration, Turkey, energy

Εντός και Εκτός: Το μεταναστευτικό και οι ελληνογερμανικές σχέσεις

Greece, a debt cut champion

Cyprus to clamp down as investigation reveals oligarchs moved assets after Ukraine invasion

SYRIZA's rough weekend: Greece’s main opposition breaks up

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 07:37:15 +0000

Following several weeks of tensions, a left-wing faction within SYRIZA, Greece’s main opposition, announced on Sunday that it was peeling off, accusing newly elected leader Stefanos Kasselakis of “Trumpian practices” and abandoning the party’s core left wing ideology for a sort of “right-wing populism.” Nektaria Stamouli, an Athens based journalist and Politico’s Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the current crisis within SYRIZA, look at the likelihood of a new party emerging on Greece’s left, and break down what SYRIZA’s implosion means for both New Democracy and PASOK, which is looking to overtake SYRIZA as Greece’s main opposition.

Read Nektaria Stamouli's latest for Politico here: Syriza’s bad Sunday: Greece’s main opposition cracks up

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Mitsotakis-Scholz talks to focus on economy, migration, energy, Mideast crisis

Greece starts process to sell 20% stake in National Bank

USAID signs partnership with Greece to improve energy security in western Balkans

Cypriot diplomacy and the plan to ship humanitarian aid to Gaza

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 11 Nov 2023 10:44:01 +0000

The Cypriot plan to supply Gaza with humanitarian aid, presented by President Nikos Christodoulides at the Paris Peace Forum this week, is gaining traction, particularly among EU member states. The planned sea corridor, in which Cyprus seeks a central role, was also the main issue discussed by Cypriot Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos on his recent trip to Amman and Ramallah, while President Christodoulides also spoke about it with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. Professor Gabriel Haritos joins Thanos Davelis to look into Cyprus’ diplomatic efforts to establish this humanitarian corridor to Gaza, look at the various political considerations, and break down the view from Israel.

Professor Gabriel Haritos teaches history of Greek-Israeli-Cypriot political relations as an adjunct lecturer at the Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and as a visiting professor at Panteion University. He is a research fellow at the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP), and the author of the book Israel and the Cyprus Question.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Humanitarian diplomacy and its risks

EU throws weight behind Cypriot plan to ship aid to Gaza

SYRIZA on course for implosion

Greece sets up first barrier to Albania

Egypt's difficult balancing act amid the war in Gaza

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 10:01:45 +0000

Egypt has been coming under “conflicting pressures” as the war in Gaza unfolds, both from Israel, the US, the EU, Hamas, and its public, all while looking at a potential economic crisis at home, leading to a difficult balancing act for Egypt. Despite these pressures, Egypt’s role in this conflict has become increasingly pivotal for the US. The recent visit by CIA Director William Burns to Egypt and Congress’s “exceptionally fast” confirmation of Washington’s new ambassador to Egypt underscore this importance. Sean Mathews joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the tightrope Egypt’s President Sisi is walking amid the war in Gaza, and look at the increasingly pivotal role Cairo is playing.

Sean Mathews is a journalist for Middle East Eye based in Greece and the wider region writing about business, security and politics. His coverage spans from across the Middle East, North Africa and the Balkans. His reporting has also appeared in Al Jazeera, The Economist, and Al Monitor.

Read Sean Mathews’ latest: Riled by Israel's Gaza plans, Egypt pushes back

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Israel-Gaza: Neighboring Egypt's tricky tightrope act

EU throws weight behind Cypriot plan to ship aid to Gaza

Cyprus outlines plan for maritime corridor to get aid to Gaza

As price of olive oil soars, chainsaw-wielding thieves target Mediterranean’s century-old trees

Sharp decline in olive oil production projected

Is SYRIZA on the verge of splitting? Kasselakis and the internal strife in Greece's main opposition

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 9 Nov 2023 09:08:05 +0000

Since Stefanos Kasselakis was elected as the new leader of Syriza, the party has been riven with internal strife and tensions. Key party members have either announced their departure from the party or been pushed out, while members of the “Umbrella” faction, which represents the left-wing opposition within the party and include figures like former finance minister Euclid Tsakalotos, are reportedly ready to press the “split” button. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, a political and economic analysis site that focuses on Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to look at whether Greece’s main opposition is on the brink of splitting, and break down what the internal issues in SYRIZA mean for the party and for Greece’s political scene.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Former minister Stathakis signals departure from SYRIZA

Umbrella faction puts SYRIZA on course for split

EU Commission urges Turkey to refrain from unilateral actions that challenge EU interests, international law

European Commission’s progress report on Albania highlights Beleri case

Maritime corridor, floating hospitals for Gaza in focus at Paris conference

Turkey’s main opposition ousts longtime leader Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 8 Nov 2023 08:38:59 +0000

Turkey’s main opposition party ousted its longtime leader Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu this weekend following his comprehensive loss in the presidential elections earlier this year. Members of the Republican People’s party (CHP) voted on Sunday to replace Kılıçdaroğlu with Özgür Özel, who has called for reform both in how the party is managed and how it approaches the upcoming elections, vowing to take an inclusive approach. Ayla Jean Yackley, a journalist covering Turkey with stories in The Financial Times, Politico, and other major outlets, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the new leader of Turkey’s opposition, and break down what we should expect as we approach local elections in March.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey’s opposition ousts longtime leader after general election defeat

Pyatt looks forward to continuing partnership with Greece on energy

Power distribution operator gets €150 mln EIB loan for smart meters

The DFC's $125 million investment in Greece's Elefsina Shipyard

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 7 Nov 2023 11:33:31 +0000

On Monday Scott Nathan, the CEO of the US International Development Finance Corporation, or the DFC, signed a financing agreement for a $125 million loan to ONEX Elefsis Shipyards and Industries to rehabilitate and modernize the Elefsina shipyard near Athens. The investment will develop the Elefsina shipyard, which is strategically located near several key gas trade routes, into a maritime and energy supply hub, creating jobs while helping Greece and the region become less reliant on Russian energy. Since its founding in 2019, the DFC has been at the forefront of Washington’s efforts to invest in its partners and allies and ensure that key strategic assets stay out of the hands of malign actors. Naz El-Khatib, the DFC’s Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy, joins Thanos Davelis to look into this key investment in Greece and highlight the DFC’s work in the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

DFC Commits $125 Million to Modernize Elefsina Shipyard in Greece, Establish Critical Energy Supply Hub in the Mediterranean

China Buys Friends With Ports and Roads. Now the U.S. Is Trying to Compete.

Blinken leaves Middle East with no progress on hostages or humanitarian pause

President charts humanitarian path for Gaza with US Secretary of State

Pro-Palestinian crowds try to storm air base housing U.S. troops in Turkey

Turkey recalls ambassador to Israel ahead of Blinken’s visit

Souda Bay takes center stage amid regional instability

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 4 Nov 2023 11:00:20 +0000

The wars in Ukraine and in the Middle East have highlighted not only Greece’s role, but specifically the important role the naval base at Souda Bay - often described as the “crown jewel” of US-Greece military cooperation - plays in the Eastern Mediterranean. As Souda Bay takes center stage amid this regional instability, Steven Tagle joins Thanos Davelis to look at how the oldest US military installation in Greece is not only strengthening the NATO alliance and contributing to regional security and stability, but is also providing Greece and the US with opportunities to deepen their decades-long security cooperation, giving meaning to the catchphrase “Stronger Together”.

Read Steven Tagle’s latest here: Amid regional instability, the oldest US military installation in Greece gets an upgrade

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece-China relations ‘mutually beneficial,’ PM says

Greece sending humanitarian aid to Gaza on Monday

Greece working with UN to send aid to Gaza

Christodoulides discusses humanitarian corridor to Gaza with US official

The Athens Riviera emerges as an international real estate hotspot

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 3 Nov 2023 10:06:32 +0000

The Athenian coastline - known as the Athens Riviera - is quickly emerging as a real estate hotspot, attracting both high end Greek and foreign investors, digital nomads, and tourists. A recent special report in Kathimerini has even called it the “El Dorado” of real estate as the area - despite having some of the most expensive real estate prices in Greece - remains an investment opportunity, especially when compared to other similar cities and coastlines across Europe. Nikos Roussanoglou, a journalist with over two decades of experience at Kathimerini covering the economy, with a focus that includes Greece's business environment, technology, and housing market, joins Thanos Davelis to look at this real estate boom in the Athens Riviera and break down what it means for the market, for the city, and for Greeks.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Αθηναϊκή Ριβιέρα: Το «Ελ Ντοράντο» του real estate

Cyprus playing pivotal role in evacuation plans

US targets China, Turkey and UAE in latest Russia sanctions

Turkey's centenary: Has Erdogan eclipsed Ataturk?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 2 Nov 2023 09:51:26 +0000

Turkey marked its 100th year as a republic on October 29th, and Turks have been debating the country's evolution and how it measures up to the vision of the deeply secular Kemal Ataturk. While celebrations focused on the previous 100 years, it is also clear that President Erdogan’s ambition is to usher in another century forged more in his own image. Ryan Gingeras, a professor in the Department of National Security Affairs at the Naval Postgraduate School and an expert on Turkish, Balkan, and Middle East history, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this centenary and its broader implications, both within and outside Turkey.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Erdogan’s dreams of eclipsing Ataturk unfulfilled as Turkish republic turns 100

Turkey’s path of no return, away from the West

Eclipsing Turkey's centenary, Erdogan tells pro-Palestinian rally: Israel is occupier

PM Mitsotakis meets with SYRIZA leader Kasselakis in first encounter

Cyprus plans to send humanitarian aid directly to Gaza by ship, where UN personnel would receive it

A new window of opportunity to bring the Western Balkans closer to the EU?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 1 Nov 2023 10:05:56 +0000

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen vowed to bring the economies of the Western Balkans and the European Union 'closer' on Monday as she began a four-day tour of the region. Her plan includes a €6 billion investment package, to be delivered on condition the countries make reforms to open up their economies, overcome their conflicts and modernize their administrations. Professor James Ker-Lindsay, who has written extensively on the EU, the Balkans and Southeast Europe, joins Thanos Davelis to break down whether this is a window of opportunity to reinvigorate the EU accession process for the Western Balkans.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Von der Leyen vows to bring Western Balkan and EU economies 'closer' as four-day visit starts

EU to help Western Balkans reforms with 6 billion euro package - von der Leyen

Cyprus talks to EU, neighbours on humanitarian corridor for Gaza

Christodoulides' bold plan for Gaza welcomed by World Leaders

Greece turning into energy and technology hub

Greece: A strategic hub between Ukraine and the Middle East

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 09:22:12 +0000

With the war in Ukraine on one side, and the outbreak of war in the Middle East on the other, Greece has become a strategic hub, and is practically the only reliable US partner in a region that is in constant turmoil. Whether it’s the port of Alexandroupolis in northern Greece, or Souda Bay in the south, Greece’s geopolitical value is becoming more and more tangible. At the same time, as Greece takes on a more dynamic role as a strategic hub, it’s also stepping up in the diplomatic arena. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how the turmoil in Ukraine and the Middle East is putting the spotlight on Greece.

Read Vassilis Nedos’ latest here: Greece serving as hub between two wars

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Athens monitoring Erdogan’s moves

Greece Boosting Plan to Export Green Energy To Israel via Cyprus

Washington's efforts to crack down on the Turkey-Hamas nexus

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 28 Oct 2023 08:52:52 +0000

Today we’re heading to Washington, DC, where we’ve seen a number of key developments throughout the week, from the relaunch of the Congressional Hellenic Israel Alliance Caucus to US lawmakers demanding that the State Department use all tools available to the US to hold the Turkish government accountable for supporting the operations of the terror group Hamas. Endy Zemenides and Sinan Ciddi join Thanos Davelis to break down the significance of both the relaunch of the CHIA caucus and Washington’s steps to crack down on the Turkey-Hamas nexus.

Endy Zemenides is the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Why Erdogan Is Unlikely to Cut Ties With Hamas

Bipartisan group targets Turkey over its ties to Hamas

Greece, Turkey close to migration deal

France's Macron: looking to build 'humanitarian coalition' regarding Gaza, in talks with Cyprus and Greece

Cyprus gears up for potential Middle East evacuations of over 100,000 people

Investment grade, UniCredit, and the Greek economic comeback

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 08:52:34 +0000

Last week Standard & Poor’s became the first among the “big three” rating agencies to upgrade Greece to investment grade since the country’s debt crisis. Securing investment grade has been a key target for the Mitsotakis government, and the upgrade was hailed as "a great achievement and a game changer" for Greece. A few days later, in another vote of confidence in Greece, Italy’s UniCredit offered to buy Greece’s stake in Alpha Bank, marking the first investment in a Greek lender by another European bank since before the financial crisis. Alex Patelis, the chief economic adviser to Greece’s Prime Minister, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the significance of these latest developments for Greece and outline the government’s next goals when it comes to the economy.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

S&P raises Greece to investment grade for first time in more than a decade

Greece’s Great Economic Comeback

UniCredit strikes first deal of Andrea Orcel era with Greek tie-up

Bipartisan group targets Turkey over its ties to Hamas

Sarbanes won’t seek re-election to US Congress in 2024

Ecogenia: Mobilizing youth for a Greek national climate corps

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 10:01:20 +0000

This year the Biden Administration launched the American Climate Corps, with the ambitious goal of putting more than 20,000 young people on career pathways in the fields of clean energy, conservation and climate resilience. At the same time, a group of Greeks, inspired by the AmeriCorps model of civil service, have embarked on a mission to become Greece’s national climate corps. The organization is called Ecogenia, and it is quickly gaining the attention of not only Greeks, but the US and the EU as well. Lia Papazoglou and Erika Spagakou, the co-founders of Ecogenia, join Thanos Davelis to talk about Ecogenia and its mission, and explore how they are mobilizing young people in climate action projects across Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

FACT SHEET: Biden-⁠Harris Administration Launches American Climate Corps to Train Young People in Clean Energy, Conservation, and Climate Resilience Skills, Create Good-Paying Jobs and Tackle the Climate Crisis

Greece: Calling all young climate champions

Turkey's Erdogan says Hamas is not terrorist organisation, cancels trip to Israel

Mediator no more: Erdoğan takes aim at Israel, backing Hamas ‘freedom’ fighters

Souda base key to US contingency plans

Prime Minister Mitsotakis in Israel: "Here not only as an ally, but as a true friend"

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 09:04:55 +0000

On Monday Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis traveled to Israel, where he met with Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and made it clear that he was there “not only as an ally, but as a true friend,” stressing that the Hamas attack on October 7th was “truly horrific.” This visit came on the heels of the Cairo Peace Summit on the Palestinian issue, where Mitsotakis reiterated the need for a viable political solution. As Mitsotakis traveled to Israel, Turkey’s President Erdogan decided to finally submit Sweden’s NATO accession protocols for approval by Turkey’s parliament. Constantinos Filis, the Director of the Institute of Global Affairs and an associate professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the significance of Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ recent visit to Israel, and break down Erdogan’s decision to finally move Sweden’s NATO bid forward.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

PM repeats unwavering support for Israel

Greece, a useful voice in the region

Greece extends power bill subsidies for households, farmers in November

SYRIZA strife reshuffling political pack

Three senior SYRIZA figures warn of party disintegration

Turkey's U-turn on Israel and the view from Europe as the war in Gaza unfolds

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 08:12:04 +0000

From Egypt to Brussels, governments are feeling the impact of the war in Gaza following the Hamas terror attacks against Israel on October 7th. While we saw Turkey try to take on a mediating role early on, it has shifted to openly criticizing both Israel and the US, leading many to wonder if President Erdogan is making a U-turn on efforts to mend relations with Israel. At the same time, European countries have boosted their security amid concerns that violence could spread to their capitals. The war in Gaza also raises concerns in Europe about new waves of migration. Wolfango Piccoli, co-founder of risk analysis company Teneo with a long experience in advising financial institutions and corporations on political developments in Europe, joins Thanos Davelis to look into Erdogan’s hardening stance vis-a-vis Israel and the US, and break down the view from Europe as the conflict in Gaza unfolds.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey's Erdogan calls on Israel to stop its attacks on Gaza 'amounting to genocide'

Belgium unveils new security measures, justice chief after Brussels attack

EU seeks answers to rising security challenges as Israel-Hamas war fuels new concerns

How Poland’s Election Results Could Reshape Europe

Mitsotakis, Netanyahu meet in Jerusalem

UniCredit strikes first deal of Andrea Orcel era with Greek tie-up

UniCredit Offers to Buy Greece’s Stake in Alpha Bank

After Nagorno Karabakh, is Azerbaijan targeting Armenia?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 21 Oct 2023 08:08:14 +0000

Recent reports have sounded the alarm about the possibility that after its attack on Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan could soon invade Armenia proper, with Politico reporting that Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned a small group of lawmakers about this possibility. These concerns come as Azerbaijiani President Ilham Aliyev calls on Armenia to open a “corridor” along its southern border, linking mainland Azerbaijan to an exclave that borders Turkey and Iran. Aliyev has even threatened to solve the issue “by force.” Expert Simon Maghakyan joins Thanos Davelis to discuss these reports and the possibility that Azerbaijan may attack Armenia in the aftermath of its assault on Nagorno Karabakh and the displacement of 120,000 Armenians from the region.

Simon Maghakyan is a visiting scholar at Tufts University and a Ph.D. student in Heritage Crime at Cranfield University. He writes and speaks on post-Soviet memory politics and cultural erasure, and facilitates global conversations on protecting Armenian heritage.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Blinken warned lawmakers Azerbaijan may invade Armenia in coming weeks

After Nagorno-Karabakh, Azerbaijan eyes a strategic strip of Armenia

Souda naval base capacity to expand

S&P upgrades Greece to investment grade for first time since 2010 crisis

Is Egypt's President Sisi in the hot seat amid the Gaza crisis?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 08:31:28 +0000

The Hamas attack against Israel has upended the Middle East, and Egypt and its President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi, like many others in the region, have been feeling the pressure. Given his unpopularity amid an economic crisis and broad pro-Palestinian sentiment among the Egyptian public, Egypt’s president is likely to be careful in how he manages the conflict in Gaza. At the same time, Sisi has invited world leaders, including Greece’s Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, to Cairo this weekend for talks on the Palestinian issue. Dr. Nervana Mahmoud joins Thanos Davelis to discuss how the war in Gaza is impacting Egypt and President Sisi, look at the upcoming summit in Cairo, and explore how the Hamas attack has hijacked key initiatives for peace across the Middle East and Eastern Mediterranean.

Dr. Nervana Mahmoud is a regional observer and independent commentator who writes mainly about Egypt, liberal Islam, women rights, radicalism, and wider issues about the Middle East. Her work has been featured in major outlets and publications. She also publishes a regular newsletter on Egypt.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

US says Egypt agrees to reopen Gaza border to aid as protests rock Middle East

Will Egypt Play a Role in Easing the Gaza War?

Egypt Looking to Host International Meeting on Palestine Issue

Athens closely monitoring Middle East

Fearing Rise of Radical Islamists, Greece Boosts Migrant Camp Security, Surveillance

EU Action Plan for Eastern Mediterranean migration

Minister highlights success in reducing migration from occupied areas

The Beleri case, the concerns of the Greek minority, and Albania's EU ambitions

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 07:19:24 +0000

European leaders met this week in Tirana with their counterparts from the Western Balkans amid efforts to reinvigorate the enlargement process and bring the region into the European Union. This has put the spotlight on Albania, which is keen to move its accession bid forward. Greece, however, has made it clear that this progress could be in jeopardy over the continued imprisonment of Fredi Beleri, the ethnic Greek mayor-elect of Himare. The sizable Greek minority in Albania has also denounced the trial as political, and for many it puts broader existential issues that Albania’s Greek minority is up against under the spotlight. John Psaropoulos, an independent journalist based in Athens and Al Jazeera’s Southeast Europe correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how this case is impacting Greece’s ties with Albania, Tirana’s ambitions to join the EU, and the Greek minority in Albania.

Read John Psaropoulos’ latest here: Greeks denounce Albanian trial of mayor-elect as political

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Beleri trial postponed again for October 24

European Union offers a new growth plan to Western Balkans that partly opens access to single market

Mitsotakis stresses need to prevent conflict escalation

Fury grows in Turkey against Israel, fresh protests staged

Pro-Gaza protests in Turkey target Israeli Consulate, McDonald's

The Greek and Cypriot roles in the wake of the Hamas attack

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 18 Oct 2023 09:42:19 +0000

In the wake of the Hamas attack against Israel, both Cyprus and Greece quickly condemned Hamas, expressed their solidarity with Israel, and their willingness to contribute toward efforts that could lead to a deescalation. Cyprus has once again become a safe haven for people heading to and leaving Israel, while Greece, as the only EU and NATO member in the region with good relations with both Israel and Arab countries, stands at the ready as well. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to explore the role Greece and Cyprus can play in the wake of the upheavals we’ve seen in the region, and provide a look ahead as Greek-American advocates prepare to head to Washington, DC next week with their counterparts from the American Jewish Committee to advocate on the Hill together.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

First batch of US citizens leaving Israel arrive in Cyprus by boat

The US and Greek role in the Mideast crisis

Greece deeply concerned, ready to assist

Greece, Turkey, discuss ‘positive agenda’ during ministerial meetings in Athens

Demographic decline is ‘existential bet for our future,’ says Mitsotakis

Greece's demographic challenge

The first cracks in New Democracy’s grip over Greek politics?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 08:38:13 +0000

Ahead of the second round of local elections everyone was expecting New Democracy to cement its political dominance across Greece. Instead, New Democracy candidates suffered surprise defeats in key regions and municipalities, including Athens and Thessaloniki. This has many wondering if we are seeing the first cracks in New Democracy’s grip over Greek politics. At the same time, this was a good night for the center left, and the question has been raised as to whether the two parties occupying that ideological space, PASOK and SYRIZA, need to find a way to cooperate. Yannis Palaiologos, a journalist at-large with Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to break down Sunday night’s results and look at what they mean for both the ruling New Democracy party and the center left.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece’s ruling conservatives suffer setbacks in regional, municipal elections

Change of guard in Athens, Thessaloniki

PM links Albania’s EU accession hopes to Beleri case

EU leaders to hold a summit with Western Balkans nations to discuss joining the bloc

Two thousand US citizens evacuating from Haifa to Limassol port

New Democracy looks to cement its dominance in Greece's local elections

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 14 Oct 2023 10:54:24 +0000

With the second round of local elections set to take place on Sunday, ruling New Democracy, which posted a sweeping victory in the first round last week, is looking to build on this momentum to cement its dominance over Greece’s political scene. At the same time, the main opposition SYRIZA seems to be caught in a popularity rut, while Stefanos Kasselakis, its newly elected leader, is facing unrest within the party. Expert Panos Koliastasis, an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Politics at the University of Peloponnese and the author of the book "Permanent campaigning in Greece in times of crisis: the Samaras, Tsipras and Mitsotakis premierships", joins Thanos Davelis to break down what these elections mean for Prime Minister Mitsotakis and his ruling party, SYRIZA, and Greece.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

A confirmation of political dominance

The derby in Thessaloniki

Internal resistance keeps Kasselakis on his toes, while ND focuses on local vote

Cyprus becomes safe haven for people heading to, leaving Israel

Mitsotakis says unified European stance on Mideast crisis necessary

Bracing for pitfalls of Mideast turmoil

Erdogan slams Israel and US, vows escalation against Syrian Kurds

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 09:43:05 +0000

Turkey’s President Erdogan appears to be shifting away from his initial moderate tone following the shocking Hamas terror attack this past weekend. Instead, he slammed Israel and the US this week over their response to this terrorist attack. At the same time, Erdogan vowed on Wednesday to escalate Ankara’s ongoing military campaign against the Kurds in northeast Syria even as Syrian Kurds accuse Turkey of war crimes. Amberin Zaman, the chief correspondent of Al Monitor, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss Erdogan’s latest escalation of rhetoric against Israel and the US, look into his threats to step up Ankara’s military campaign against the Kurds in northeast Syria, and break down whether Syria’s Kurds are slipping further down Washington’s list of priorities following the Hamas attack.

Read Amberin Zaman’s latest here:

Syrian Kurds accuse Turkey of war crimes as Erdogan vows escalation

Turkey's Erdogan strikes moderate stance as Israel-Hamas war rages

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Notice on the Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Situation in and in Relation to Syria

Gaza war tests fragile Israel-Turkey rapprochement as Erdogan ups rhetoric

Why Israel-Hamas is Erdoğan’s new ‘mission impossible’

EU Commission’s Schinas stresses ‘respect for democracy’ for West Balkans’ accession

Greeks denounce Albanian trial of mayor-elect as political

ND aiming for complete dominance

Greek diplomacy in the Balkans and its plan for Ukrainian grain

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 08:51:44 +0000

Greece’s prime minister was just in Varna this week for a trilateral meeting with his Bulgarian and Romanian counterparts. Aside from the expected discussion around expanding their energy cooperation to further decouple the region from Russian energy sources, the three leaders also looked into a proposal by Greece that would see Ukrainian grain shipped across the three countries and exported through Greek ports of Thessaloniki and Alexandroupoli. Revecca Pedi, an associate professor of international relations at the University of Macedonia in Thessaloniki, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this Greek proposal that could help bring Ukrainian grain to market, break down what it could mean for northern Greece, and look more broadly at Greece’s increasingly important role in the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Ukraine grain discussed in Varna summit

Greece, Bulgaria, Romania sign letter of intent to extend NATO pipelines network

Greece quadrupled natural gas exports to the north, says PM

To ελληνικό σχέδιο για τα ουκρανικά σιτηρά

Pyla buffer zone free of military presence

Greek foreign ministry welcomes UN-brokered consensus on Pyla buffer zone

Turkey's Erdogan calls Israeli response to Hamas in Gaza a 'massacre'

After US, Erdogan takes aim at Israel

Greece ready to assist in the aftermath of Hamas terrorist attack

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 08:46:30 +0000

The foreign ministers of Greece and Cyprus were just in Oman, where EU ministers met with their Gulf counterparts. Needless to say, the planned agenda got thrown out the window with the Hammas terrorist attack against Israel taking center stage. Following meetings in Oman, Greece’s Foreign Minister said he had been in talks with his counterparts from the Gulf and other Arab countries, and announced a plan aimed at de-escalating tensions, indicating that Greece stands ready to play its part. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what this Hamas terrorist attack could mean for the region, and discuss the role that Greece - which has strong ties with Israel and Arab countries - can play in its aftermath.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece deeply concerned, ready to assist

Mitsotakis: Terrorism cannot go unanswered

Agreements on energy frozen by war

The US will send a carrier strike group to the Eastern Mediterranean in support of Israel

Cyprus says ready to assist Israel evacuations, if needed

Ukraine grain discussed in Varna summit

Turkey and its connection to Hamas

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 07:09:16 +0000

This weekend Hamas - designated as a terrorist group by Israel, the United States, the European Union, the UK, as well as other powers - launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, with its fighters entering communities near the Gaza Strip, killing hundreds of residents and taking dozens of hostages. While the attack has spawned fears of a wider Middle East war, it is also putting the spotlight on not only Iran’s sponsoring of Hamas, but also on Turkey, which has become a sponsor of Hamas in recent years and a major hub of Hamas operations. Expert Sinan Ciddi joins Thanos Davelis to explore this connection between Turkey and Hamas.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Thread on Secretary Blinken’s post on X (formerly Twitter)

Israel Intercepts Rocket-Making Material En Route to Gaza From Turkey

Israel's envoy to Turkey says too early to talk mediation, calls for end of Hamas presence

An app shows how ancient Greek sites looked thousands of years ago. It’s a glimpse of future tech

Local elections confirm ND’s dominance

Serbia, Kosovo, and the risk of violence in the Western Balkans

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 7 Oct 2023 06:04:26 +0000

A firefight between Serb paramilitaries and Kosovo police at the end of September marked one of the worst episodes of violence in the country in years, raising questions about efforts to settle the Kosovo issue and whether future flare-ups of violence are on the horizon in the Western Balkans. Dimitar Bechev, a research fellow at Carnegie Europe, where he focuses on Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe and a lecturer at Oxford’s School of Global and Area Studies, joins Thanos Davelis to look at this latest escalation of tensions, explore what it means for the ongoing Kosovo-Serbia negotiations, and break down what’s at stake for the wider region.

Read Dimitar Bechev’s latest here:

Analysis: Are Kosovo and Serbia on the brink of war?

The EU Cannot Give Up on Serbia and Kosovo

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Poland, Hungary threaten to derail EU leaders’ gathering in Granada

Hungary, Poland rail at EU migration policy as bloc leaders meet

Athens tourism’s record year

Greek local elections an early test for Mitsotakis

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 6 Oct 2023 08:43:26 +0000

Local elections are taking place on Sunday in Greece, and Prime Minister Mitsotakis has been on the road campaigning for New Democracy candidates across the country. This is seen as the first big test for the government after Prime Minister Mitsotakis was overwhelmingly re-elected this summer, and comes after a few months of heavy criticism over its handling of multiple crises - from wildfires to floods. It’s also the first test for Stefanos Kasselakis, the new leader of SYRIZA, Greece’s main opposition. Tom Ellis, the editor in chief of Kathimerini English Edition, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what these elections mean for Prime Minister Mitsotakis, SYRIZA’s new leader, and the country.

Read Tom Ellis’ latest in Kathimerini: An early test for the government

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Nothing ‘simple’ about local government vote

U.S. Jet Shoots Down Turkish Drone Over Syria

U.S. F-16 shoots down Turkish drone flying over American troops in Syria

U.S. shoots down armed drone flown by NATO ally Turkey

Greek feta makers reel from historic floods

Liquid gold: Why the price of olive oil is skyrocketing and what it means for Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 5 Oct 2023 10:24:01 +0000

Heatwaves around the Mediterranean - from Spain to Greece - have damaged olive harvests, with recent reports indicating that Europe has almost run out of local olive oil supplies. For its part, Greece- a key exporter of high quality extra virgin olive oil to the rest of the world - is expected to produce a third less than last year, and consumers are already experiencing significant price hikes on a product that is seen as essential in every Greek home. Vasilis Frantzolas, an olive oil seminar teacher and taster and the publisher of the book "Modern Techniques for Olive Growing and Production of Quality Olive Oil", joins Thanos Davelis to look at the scope of the crisis facing the olive oil industry today, break down what these shortages and inevitable price hikes mean for countries like Greece, and explore whether climate change is putting the future of this ancient industry at risk.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Europe’s olive oil supply running out after drought – and the odd hailstorm

Major olive oil heist in Halkidiki as prices surge

Turkey's Fidan declares all PKK, YPG facilities in Syria, Iraq as 'legitimate targets'

Turkey threatens to expand strikes in Syria, Iraq

Ankara tables old energy proposal undermining existing framework on Cyprus

Is Turkey's militarism a factor driving its foreign policy?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 4 Oct 2023 09:56:07 +0000

Azerbaijan’s military offensive against Nagorno-Karabakh last month has seen discussions of war yet again echo across Turkey’s media landscape. As in 2020, pundits on Turkish television delighted in the use of Turkish-made weapons by Azerbaijan, whose victory is greeted as yet another triumph of the Turkish defense industry. This has put the spotlight on Turkey’s strong militarist tendencies, which, as some argue, now perhaps more than ever lie at the heart of Turkish domestic and foreign policy. Ryan Gingeras, a professor in the Department of National Security Affairs at the Naval Postgraduate School and an expert on Turkish, Balkan, and Middle East history, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the trajectory of Turkish militarism and how it increasingly impacts Turkey’s perceptions of affairs abroad.

Read Ryan Gingeras’ latest in War On The Rocks: Testing The Trajectory Of Turkish Militarism

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece is a ‘vital conduit’ for the West

PM rolls up sleeves for regional polls

Mitsotakis continues nationwide campaign ahead of local and regional elections

Deal or no deal? EU’s flagship migration reform

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 3 Oct 2023 08:17:35 +0000

With 2023 seeing a spike in arrivals on Europe’s shores and borders, migration is once again the pressing issue across the continent. The European Commission’s vice-president, Margaritis Schinas, has urged member states to finalize a crucial deal over migration reform, telling ministers that a unified plan would be a means of fighting back against a rising tide of populism and smuggling networks. As the bloc looks to finalize a deal on migration policy, Greece is also making the case for Europe to revamp the EU-Turkey migrant deal from 2016. Alexandra Voudouri, Kathimerini’s Brussels correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how a surge in migrant arrivals is impacting European politics, and explore whether a deal is finally around the corner for the EU’s flagship migration reform.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

EU fails to agree changes to migration laws as Germany and Italy clash

German-Italian rift thwarts EU deal on new rules to deal with migration crises

Athens wants to revamp EU-Turkey migrant deal

Complications in reaching migration deal

Cyprus hails Moody’s two-notch credit rating upgrade bringing the country into investment grade

Turkish planes raid Kurdish targets in Iraq after terror attack in Ankara

Turkey: Two officers injured in blast outside interior ministry

The sky is the limit in the US-Greece relationship

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 30 Sep 2023 09:31:12 +0000

The broad consensus today is that US-Greece relations are at an all time high. As the two countries deepen their ties, and as Greece takes on a more active role in the region as a key player, many are arguing that the “sky is the limit” when it comes to where the relationship could go. This was the focus of a recent policy paper Katerina Sokou wrote for ELIAMEP, titled US-Greece Relations: Capitalizing on a Generational High. Katernia Sokou joins Thanos Davelis to explore how both countries can capitalize on the progress made so far to take this critical relationship to new heights.

Katerina Sokou is the Theodore Couloumbis Research Fellow on “Greek-American Relations” at ELIAMEP. She is also the Washington, DC correspondent and columnist for Kathimerini, and a nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Europe Center.

Read Katerina Sokou’s policy paper here: Greece-US relations: Capitalizing on a generational high

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Mitsotakis: EU needs ‘to determine on own terms who enters’ bloc

Erdogan says Menendez resignation from Senate committee boosts Turkey’s bid to acquire F-16s

Menendez ouster improves odds for F-16 sale to Turkey, top Republican says

Cardin may track Menendez on Saudi pact, Turkey F-16s as panel chair

New US Senate foreign relations chair will look at Turkish F-16 deal

Tourism, real estate, and Greece's demographic challenge

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 06:11:35 +0000

Greece’s big economic success over the last years has been tourism, and, as tourists flock to Greece, so is foreign money. This is also coinciding with an increase in Greek homes going to foreign buyers, and in homeowners choosing to put their homes and apartments on platforms like Airbnb. As a result, average Greek property prices and rent have shot up, and many young Greeks fear that homeownership may be out of reach at a time when Greece is also facing a long-term demographic challenge. John Psaropoulos, an independent journalist based in Greece and Al Jazeera's southeast Europe correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how Greece’s success story, tourism, could also be contributing to Greece’s demographic challenge.

Read John Psaropoulos’ latest article here: Tourism’s dark side: Are those who love Greece killing it?

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Homes flooded as Storm Elias hits battered Volos in central Greece

Greece and Turkey seal mini migration pact

Greece: A gateway linking India and Europe

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Earlier this month at the G20 summit the US and the EU backed an ambitious plan to build an economic corridor linking Europe with the Middle East and India via rail and sea. Greece is set to play an important geostrategic role on this corridor, as Greek ports would serve as the gateway into Europe. The announcement at the G20 summit followed a trip that India’s Prime Minister Modi made to Greece in late August for the launch, as Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis put it, of the two countries’ “strategic partnership.” Dr. Spyros Economides, an Associate Professor in International Relations and European Politics at the London School of Economics and Deputy Director of the Hellenic Observatory, joins Thanos Davelis to look into India’s new “silk road”, Greece’s important role in it, and its growing ties with India.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece on India’s ‘silk road’

G20: EU and US back trade corridor linking Europe, Middle East and India

A new relationship that’s 2,500 years old

Cyprus says Lebanon needs EU aid to deal with migration crisis

Nagorno-Karabakh: More than 40,000 refugees flee to Armenia

'I left to stay alive': Nagorno-Karabakh empties of ethnic Armenians

Theft at the British Museum puts spotlight on the Parthenon Sculptures

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 08:05:08 +0000

In 2021, despite warnings about items from its collections being sold by private persons, the British Museum chose not to view the matter “with much alarm.” This summer it became known that more than 2,000 items were stolen from the British Museum over a long period of time. This undoubtedly raises questions about the safety of countless artifacts, and has some asking whether it will affect the demand for the reunification of the Parthenon Sculptures. Angelos Chaniotis, a professor of ancient history and Classics at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what this crisis means for the British Museum, and explore whether it could impact efforts aimed at reuniting the Parthenon Sculptures.

Read Prof. Angelos Chaniotis’ latest article in Kathimerini: The Parthenon Sculptures – now that the British Museum has lost its charm

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Strengthening the US-Greece security relationship

Greece is planning a major regularization program for migrants to cope with labor crunch

Seeking migration deal with Turkey

Unlocking the F-35s for Greece and the crucial month ahead

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 06:49:09 +0000

Reports indicate that after a number of delays Greece can expect movement on its request to purchase F-35 fighter jets in the coming weeks, with the Biden administration expected to send a formal notification to Congress. At the same time, October is shaping up to be a crucial month for the issue of the potential sale of F-16s to Turkey, as the US will be watching to see if Turkey’s Parliament, which is set to reconvene in October, will approve Sweden’s NATO membership bid. Lena Argiri, the DC correspondent for ERT - the Greek public broadcasting company, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest reports from Washington as we look at what to expect in the coming weeks on the F-35s for Greece and the F-16 saga with Turkey. We also look back at the UNGA, recapping the key takeaways from a packed week for both Greece and Cyprus.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Εξοπλιστικά: «Ξεκλειδώνει» η πώληση των F-35 στην Ελλάδα – Μήνας εξελίξεων ο Οκτώβριος

Greece’s leftist Syriza gets new leader: An ex-banker

Political neophyte Stefanos Kasselakis elected new leader of Greece’s main opposition Syriza party

Central Greece braces for onslaught of Storm Elias

SYRIZA's leadership showdown, Kasselakis, and the future of the party

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 23 Sep 2023 09:27:33 +0000

This Sunday supporters of SYRIZA, Greece’s second largest party, will head to the polls to select a new leader, as Stefanos Kasselakis, the surprise winner in the first round elections, faces Effie Achtsioglou in what’s expected to be a close showdown that will define the future of the party. As the race for who will take the reins of SYRIZA heats up, Greeks have begun to look more closely into Stefanos Kasselakis, who remains a largely unvetted newcomer on the political scene. Nikos Efstathiou, a journalist and author from Athens and the current Managing Editor at the magazine LiFO, joins me to discuss SYRIZA’s increasingly contentious leadership race and the impact Stefanos Kasselakis has had on Greece’s political scene.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

SYRIZA polarized ahead of final showdown

Countdown to SYRIZA election showdown

Mitsotakis says achieving investment grade improves Greece’s borrowing costs

Migrant flows surge in last two months

Turkish entities sanctioned for helping fuel Russia’s war machine

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 19:57:35 +0000

Last week the Biden administration imposed sanctions on five Turkish companies and a Turkish national, accusing them of helping Russia evade sanctions and supporting Moscow in its war against Ukraine. US officials have repeatedly pushed Turkey to crack down on Russian circumvention of sanctions, particularly when it comes to the export of chemicals, microchips and other products that can be used in Moscow's war effort. Expert Sinan Ciddi joins Thanos Davelis to look at this latest round of sanctions, which underscore that despite repeated warnings, Turkey continues to help fuel Russia’s war machine.

Read Sinan Ciddi’s latest here:

U.S. Sanctions Turkish Entities for Fueling Russia’s War Machine

Mr. Erdoğan in New York: A Transactional Foreign Policy Should be Repaid in Kind

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Thousands of Greeks rally as state workers strike over labour law plans

Controversial labour law set to usher in radical changes to employment practices

Cyprus and Chevron unite for Aphrodite gas field

Mitsotakis meets with Erdogan at the UN

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 09:55:36 +0000

On Wednesday Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis held a much anticipated meeting with Turkish President Erdogan on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. The two leaders agreed to continue working to deepen the positive climate in Greek-Turkish relations that has been established this year, laid out a roadmap of contacts for the coming months, and discussed issues of common interest such as migration and the climate crisis. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how the two leaders are expected to build on the positive atmosphere we’ve seen these past months, while looking ahead at what we can expect to see as part of this positive agenda.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Roadmap amid calm waters in the Aegean

Greek, Turkish leaders to confirm improved climate

Mitsotakis-Erdogan: Keeping the process on a positive track

The Greek-Turkish dialogue and the Cyprus issue

Nagorno-Karabakh: thousands protest in Armenia in wake of ceasefire deal

Azerbaijan halts Karabakh offensive after ceasefire deal with Armenian separatists

The U.S. Keeps Failing Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh

Climate change made storm Daniel far more likely and intense, scientists say

With friends like these... Erdogan's PBS interview sets the stage at the UN

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 08:26:37 +0000

As the week kicked off at the UN in New York, Turkish President Erdogan sat with PBS NewsHour for a one on one interview, where he talked about Turkey’s relations with the US, with Greece, the state of human rights in his country, and his ties to Putin’s Russia. Aside from his outbursts at journalist Amna Nawaz over her questions on human rights, Erdogan also raised eyebrows with his statements on Russia, which he said he trusts just as much as the West, and his comment that Senator Bob Menendez isn’t familiar with Turkey after a question about Congress and the potential sale of F-16s. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this interview and break down what else we need to look out for when it comes to Hellenic issues at the UNGA this week.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkey’s Erdogan says he trusts Russia ‘just as much as I trust the West’

Mitsotakis-Erdogan: Keeping the process on a positive track

Cyprus talks to be discussed on sidelines of UN assembly in New York

Christodoulides' UN call: A bold push for Cyprus reunification

Azerbaijan launches attack in Nagorno-Karabakh, announces ‘evacuation’ of Armenian population

Nagorno-Karabakh: death toll rises as latest violence condemned by Russia and US

Azerbaijan launches operation against Nagorno-Karabakh and demands surrender

Greek, Turkish leaders to confirm improved climate

The battle over SYRIZA and Mitsotakis’ effort to set a new agenda

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 20:35:28 +0000

A new political season has kicked off in Greece this month as voters went to the polls to elect a new leader for Greece’s main opposition party, SYRIZA, on Sunday, while Prime Minister Mitsotakis outlined his government’s priorities at the Thessaloniki International Fair in the wake of the devastating wildfires in August and the deadly floods in Thessaly. Amid these developments, voters are also preparing for local elections which are on the horizon. Yannis Palaiologos, a journalist at-large with Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the new political season unfolding in Greece, from the battle over the future leadership of SYRIZA to the Mitsotakis government’s efforts to set a new agenda in the wake of wildfires and floods.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

SYRIZA: Kasselakis, Achtsioglou headed to a runoff

SYRIZA’s Kasselakis, Achtsioglou urge voters to return for runoff next Sunday

PM emphasizes reforms in TIF keynote speech

Mitsotakis says no reshuffle ahead

Fredi Beleri’s request for release rejected once again

Erdoğan threatens to ‘part ways’ from EU after critical European Parliament report

"Time is of the essence": Ending Azerbaijan’s genocidal blockade of Artsakh

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 16 Sep 2023 08:47:09 +0000

This week Washington DC turned its attention to Nagorno Karabakh - or Artsakh - once again, with the Senate Foreign Relations Committee holding a hearing on the failure to break Azerbaijan’s genocidal blockade of Artsakh that has left some 120,000 Armenians on the brink of starvation. Senator Menendez, the chairman of the Committee, was emphatic about the urgency of the situation in Artsakh, stating, “as we sit here today with the lives of so many people hanging in the balance, time is of the essence.” Michael Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and former Pentagon official, joins Thanos Davelis to explain how US diplomacy has failed Armenians in Artsakh, and look to the past for analogies that could guide policymakers looking to support the people of Artsakh and end this blockade.

Read Michael Rubin’s latest:

Anatomy Of Genocide: How The State Department Inadvertently Green-Lighted War On Armenians

What Is the Proper Analogy for Artsakh: Crimea or Kosovo?

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Senate Hearing: Assessing The Crisis In Nagorno-Karabakh

Cyprus holds military drill with France, Italy and Greece to bolster security in east Mediterranean

US sanctions 5 Turkish firms in broad Russia action on over 150 targets

Why Washington needs a new approach to Turkey's Erdogan

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 07:23:38 +0000

For years, the US has had an unshakable, yet unreasonable assumption: that Ankara is a normal ally. Washington has operated from this point of view even in the face of contradictory evidence, and has looked to avoid public disputes while pretending that disagreements are trivial. Instead, as Prof. Henri Barkey argues in Foreign Affairs, the US needs to meet Erdogan’s provocative unpredictability with consistency and firmness. Henri Barkey, the Cohen Professor of International Relations at Lehigh University and Adjunct Senior Fellow for Middle East Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis to explain why Washington needs a new approach to dealing with Turkey and President Erdogan, and why now is a unique opportunity to change the relationship dramatically.

Read Henri Barkey’s latest in Foreign Affairs: Erdogan the Survivor

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

A billion euros for Thessaly

Long-term economic effects of storm emerge as waters recede

US says it expects Albania to respect due process in Beleri case

Beleri case referred to trial

Greece's agricultural heartland wrecked by massive storm

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 10:46:10 +0000

Days after Storm Daniel passed through Greece, Thessaly - Greece’s agricultural heartland - is still under water, with locals describing apocalyptic scenes. With the plain accounting for 25 percent of Greece’s agricultural production, the threat of shortages and price hikes now looms large. On top of that, with the waters still high, there are now warnings that this could turn into a major health hazard. In the midst of this catastrophe, Greece has announced emergency relief measures and is turning to its EU partners for aid. Nektaria Stamouli, Politico’s Eastern Mediterranean correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to assess the scope of the damage in Thessaly following Storm Daniel, and look at the questions this latest crisis raises about the challenges that lie ahead for Greece.

Read Nektaria Stamouli’s latest here: Supercharged storm wrecks Greece’s breadbasket for years to come

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Authorities on standby for potential disease outbreak

Either we get serious or we will sink

Searchers race to recover bodies in Libyan city where 5,100 died in flooding after 2 dams collapsed

Libya Buries Dead in Collective Graves as Estimated Storm Toll Tops 6,000

Libya turmoil made Derna flooding even more deadly

Death toll in Libya’s Derna flooding could reach 20,000: Mayor

EU chief announces major review saying the bloc should grow to over 30 members

Chios, the mastic trade, and the ties between Greece and the Arab world

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 09:02:50 +0000

Mastic - a unique product from the Greek island of Chios - has been at the heart of the island’s economy for centuries, linking it - and Greece - to the rest of the world, particularly the Middle East. Mastic found on Chios is used extensively throughout the Middle East, propelling trade and cultural links between Greece and the Arab world for centuries. As Greece takes steps to play a much more central role in bringing together countries in the region, mastic trade and the connections it fosters show us that the foundations for this are already in place. Sean Mathews, an Athens based journalist covering the region, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how mastic trade not only serves as a bridge between Greece and the Middle East, but also reflects the changing fortunes of the region.

Read Sean Mathews' latest here: Chios, the Greek island fuelling the Arab world's sweet tooth

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

EU ready to weigh into Greek recovery effort

Specter of shortages looms in wake of Thessaly floods

G20 summit: Transport project to link India to Middle East, Europe unveiled

India's economic corridor to Europe via Saudi, UAE: a win for US, West Asia

Advancing the rights of persons with disabilities in Greece and the US

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 08:46:46 +0000

As the US-Greece partnership reaches new heights, it is also touching on all aspects of both societies, and one of the areas where the US and Greece are working together is to advance the rights of persons with disabilities. This was the focus of US Special Adviser Sara Minkara’s latest trip to Thessaloniki. Sara Minkara, the US Special Advisor on International Disability Rights, and Chrysella Lagaria, the co - founder and CEO of Black Light, a Social Cooperative Enterprise with a mission to improve the daily lives of people with visual impairments and act as a major stakeholder for their work integration, join Thanos Davelis to discuss the importance of advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities, look at the the key challenges Greece still faces, and explore where the two countries can work together to achieve the goal of full inclusion and empowerment.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Special Advisor on International Disability Rights Minkara Travel to Greece

Race against time amid destruction

Greek PM under attack over handling of Storm Daniel disaster response

The death toll from floods in Greece has risen to 15 after 4 more bodies found

Turkey 'seriously upset' over Washington linking F-16 sales to Sweden’s NATO membership

Sweden's NATO accession and Turkey's bid to buy F-16 jets should be kept separate, Erdogan says

The uncertain future of the historic Greek population in Turkey

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 9 Sep 2023 09:38:11 +0000

Over the past few years it seems that the island of Imvros, a Turkish island in the Aegean Sea with a historic Greek population, is experiencing what’s been described by some as a small Greek renaissance, as some descendants of the Greeks who were largely displaced in the 1960s have begun trickling back. Elsewhere in Turkey, however, the picture is bleak. Out of a population of some 200,000 Greeks who were allowed to stay following the population exchange between Greece and Turkey in 1923, only some 2,000 remain. Piotr Zalewski, The Economist's Turkey correspondent, joins Thanos Davelis to look at this Greek comeback on Imvros, a small bright spot in an otherwise bleak picture for the remaining Greek community of Turkey.

Read Piotr Zalewsky’s latest for The Economist: The uncertain future of Greeks in Turkey

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

PM pledges support for storm-damaged areas in central Greece

Greece credit rating raised to investment grade for first time since debt crisis

DBRS restores Greece to investment grade

Storm Daniel leaves a trail of devastation in Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 8 Sep 2023 08:43:20 +0000

Greece was battered this week by Storm Daniel, which has led to the death of multiple people, triggered landslides, road and bridge collapses, and is being described as a “biblical catastrophe”. The heavy rainfall, which comes on the heels of a devastating few weeks of wildfires, has turned many villages in the low-lying area of Karditsa, in the mainland Thessaly plain, into a lake. With rescue efforts underway, Prime Minister Mitsotakis postponed an annual economic speech scheduled for this weekend to visit the afflicted areas. Iliana Magra, a journalist with Kathimerini, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest reporting from Greece on this unprecedented storm.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

‘A biblical catastrophe’: death toll rises to four as Storm Daniel lashes Greece

Deadly storm sweeps across Greece, PM postpones keynote speech

Entire villages in Thessaly ‘wiped out’

Greece becomes 13th member of Three Seas Initiative on EU’s eastern flank

What is the Three Seas Initiative and why is it expanding?

Romania hosts summit to boost ties between 12 EU countries and partners

‘What law dictates that I cannot be sworn in?’

Greece, Cyprus, and Israel envisage energy connection linking Asia, the Arabian Peninsula and Europe

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 7 Sep 2023 09:24:18 +0000

The leaders of Greece, Israel and Cyprus once again put energy cooperation at the heart of discussions earlier this week in Nicosia. The three leaders took it a step further to explore expanding their cooperation, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu referring to the possibility of an infrastructure and electrical link between Asia, the Arabian Peninsula, Israel, Cyprus, Greece and Europe, and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis raising the prospect of engaging with India as well. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to explore how Greece, Cyprus, and Israel are not only strengthening their partnership, but expanding this arc of stability across the region.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Energy cooperation with Israel deepens

Greece is working with Israel on AI technology to quickly detect wildfires

Disaster of biblical proportions

Three dead, four missing as rains pound Greece for second day

Flooding in Athens as Storm Daniel reaches capital

Turkey asks the EU to take bold steps to advance its membership bid, while the EU urges reforms

Turkey, EU to revive talks to modernise customs union, minister says

A window of opportunity for Greek-Turkish relations?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 6 Sep 2023 08:34:29 +0000

Greece’s foreign minister held a much anticipated meeting with his Turkish counterpart on Tuesday in which the two sides agreed on a “roadmap” to revive high-level contacts between their countries and seek “new approaches” to problems as part of an effort to improve ties. Constantinos Filis, the Director of the Institute of Global Affairs and an associate professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest takeaways from this meeting in Ankara, and offers a look ahead at what will likely be a crucial period in Greek-Turkish relations.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Small window of opportunity opens in Greek-Turkish relations

Ministerial meeting heralds warmer relations between Greece and Turkey

Friendly Putin-Erdogan Meeting Keeps West Guessing

Torrential rain follows summer wildfires in Greece, one dead

Greece battered by tropical storms

Greece, the US, and the work to advance LGBTQI+ rights

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 07:18:51 +0000

In July Greece’s Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said he planned to legalize same-sex marriage in his new term. Many have noted that this would be a huge step forward for LGBTQI+ rights at a time when some governments - even in the West - are cracking down on the community. Jessica Stern, the US Special Envoy to Advance the Human Rights of LGBTQI+ Persons, and Nikos Efstathiou, a journalist and author from Athens and the current Managing Editor at the magazine LiFO, join Thanos Davelis to talk about the LGBTQI+ rights in Greece and around the world, and look at what Greece and the US can learn from each other as they work to advance these rights.

Appointed by President Biden, Jessica Stern serves as the Special Envoy to Advance the Human Rights of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersex (LGBTQI+) Persons. Special Envoy Stern leads U.S. efforts to protect LGBTQI+ persons globally from violence and discrimination. Prior to joining the Department of State, Stern led Outright International, a global LGBTQI+ human rights organization, as its Executive Director for ten years.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

U.S. Special Envoy to Advance the Human Rights of LGBTQI+ Persons Stern’s Travel to Greece and Germany

Greece's Prime Minister Plans to Legalize Same-Sex Marriage

Greece wildfires: Eighteen bodies found in Greek forest

Wildfires: EU mobilises new planes and firefighters for Greece

UN calls unauthorized construction by Turkish Cypriots a violation of the status quo on Cyprus

Turkey accuses UN of abandoning neutrality over Cyprus roadwork

Saving Athens: Climate change and an architecture for a new age

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 19 Aug 2023 07:03:13 +0000

As heatwaves – like the ones Greece has experienced this summer – become longer and more intense, modern cities like Athens need to develop new strategies in order to shield the city and its inhabitants from rising temperatures. This includes investing in public water reservoirs and drinking fountains, splash pads and fountains, pocket parks, green parking lots, trees in public spaces, sustainable mobility and reused buildings. Taking these tough, but necessary decisions, however will require political will. Prof. Petros Babasikas, head of the architecture program at the University of Toronto who has also led a key research on how Athens can adapt in the age of climate change, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what steps Athens can take today to become more resilient.

Read Prof. Petros Babasikas’ latest interview with Kathimerini: Climate change: Saving Athens from itself

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkish Cypriots attack UN peacekeepers trying to halt road work inside divided Cyprus’ buffer zone

UN condemns assault on personnel and vehicles inside Cyprus buffer zone

US Embassy of Cyprus tweet on the attack in the buffer zone

Putin fails again as Europe’s gas storage hits 90 percent

What to expect in EU-Turkey relations in Erdogan's new term

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 18:00:00 +0000

In the months since Turkish President Erdogan’s reelection, we’ve heard a lot about the potential for a new page in EU-Turkey relations, and Erdogan even raised the issue of Turkey’s membership in the EU at the July NATO summit. Despite this signaling from Ankara, the main obstacles concerning EU-Turkey relations have remained the same, whether we are looking at rule of law and human rights issues, or Turkey’s continued occupation and refusal to recognize the Republic of Cyprus. As the debate over the future of EU-Turkey relations in the coming years unfolds, Ambassador Marc Pierini joins Thanos Davelis to look at what we should expect in the wake of Erdogan’s reelection.

Marc Pierini is a visiting scholar at Carnegie Europe, where his research focuses on developments in the Middle East and Turkey from a European perspective. Prior to this, Pierini was a career EU diplomat, and served as EU ambassador to Turkey (2006–2011).

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

What does Erdoğan’s new term in office mean for EU-Turkey relations?

UN raises alarm over unauthorized construction in buffer zone

North announces intention to build ‘unauthorised’ road through buffer zone

Less leeway for handouts this winter

Greece and UEFA look to end the "cancer" of hooligan violence in soccer

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 09:32:11 +0000

Greek football - or soccer - teams have delivered some important performances on the European stage these past weeks, and fans are rightfully excited across the country. While fans celebrate these victories, a cloud hangs over the sport. Fan violence is back in the spotlight after a Greek fan was killed recently in an altercation with Croatian hooligans in Athens. The incident has sparked a debate about violence in the game and the government’s responsibilities, and UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin met with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Wednesday to address what he called “the cancer of football”. Professor Alexander Kitroeff, a Professor of History at Haverford College and the author of the book Ελλάς, Ευρώπη Παναθηναϊκός! 100 Χρόνια Ελληνική Ιστορία - Greece, Europe, Panathinaikos! 100 Years of Greek History, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss these latest developments.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

UEFA and Greece to clamp down on football hooligans after fan's death in Athens

UEFA’s Ceferin calls on Europe to end ‘cancer’ of soccer violence

PM announces soccer club club fan associations will close

Nagorno-Karabakh residents say 'disastrous' blockade choking supplies

Mount an airlift to feed Nagorno-Karabakh

Russia risks war with NATO in Black Sea, former top commander in Europe warns

Azerbaijan's blockade of Nagorno Karabakh and the failure of US diplomacy

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 08:45:03 +0000

The UN Security Council scheduled an emergency meeting on Wednesday to discuss the worsening humanitarian situation in Nagorno-Karabakh, or Artsakh, as a result of Azerbaijan’s blockade of the Lachin corridor. For over eight months, the region's 120,000 indigenous Armenians have been deprived access to food, medicine, fuel, electricity, and water. Gev Iskajyan, the Executive Director of the Armenian National Committee of Artsakh, joins Thanos Davelis from Artsakh to look at the humanitarian crisis that’s unfolding on the ground as a result of Azerbaijan’s blockade, and discuss his latest op-ed which explores how US diplomacy is currently failing the people of Artsakh and Armenia.

Read Gev Iskajyan and Alex Galitsky’s latest op-ed: U.S. Diplomacy is Failing Armenia

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Weapons infrastructure upgrade urgent

Migrant and refugee border crossings down 29%

49 years since Turkey's second invasion of Cyprus

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 19:51:01 +0000

Every year on July 20th we remember the beginning of Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus. July 20th, however, only marks phase one of the Turkish invasion. On August 14th, 1974 - despite the collapse of the dictatorship in Greece, the restoration of a democratic government in Cyprus, and the diplomatic efforts underway to find a way forward - Turkey launched phase two of its invasion, or Attila II. Historian Andrew Novo joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the second phase of Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus that led to the illegal occupation of nearly 40% of Cyprus, a score of human rights violations, and the displacement of some 150,000 people from their homes.

Andrew Novo holds a doctorate in history from the University of Oxford. He is Professor of Strategic Studies at the National Defense University's College of International Security Affairs, and he is a specialist in the history of the Mediterranean world, both ancient and modern. The views expressed on our show do not reflect the National Defense University, the Department of Defense or the United States government.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Cyprus marks 49 years since Turkey's dramatic military expansion

Himare’s ethnic Greeks rally for detained mayor

The benefits of a debt upgrade

A diplomatic restart between Athens and Tripoli?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 12 Aug 2023 08:00:50 +0000

After several years of virtually nonexistent relations, Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis spoke on the phone Wednesday with Najla Mangoush - the interim foreign minister of the government of national unity in Tripoli. According to diplomatic sources, Gerapetritis stressed the need to relaunch relations between Athens and Tripoli and to open direct channels of communication. Athens’ willingness to restart relations comes at a time when Ankara is also taking steps toward rapprochement with countries in the region - like Egypt - and with actors in eastern Libya. Expert Aya Burweila joins Thanos Davelis to look at these latest developments and break down what they mean for Libya and the region.

Aya Burweila is a Libyan expert from Benghazi based in Athens, is the founder and director of the non-profit Code on the Road, and a BBC Woman Expert in Terrorism and Radicalization.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Athens seeking restart with Tripoli

Newly reconciled, Turkey and Egypt could be a force for stability in Africa

Funeral held for fan killed in Athens attack. UEFA President Ceferin to meet Greek PM

Patriarchate gets green light, in writing, for liturgy at Panagia Soumela

The Treaty of Lausanne: A story of survival and ambivalence

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 16:09:21 +0000

This year marks the centenary of the Lausanne Treaty, a treaty that has survived a number of twists and turns in world history. While it continues to largely define the status quo between Greece and Turkey, the spirit of the treaty has also been interpreted differently in both countries, with Greeks seeing the treaty as a painful, but necessary basis for peace, while for Turks the spirit of Lausanne is summed up in a single word – sovereignty. Bruce Clark, a contributor to The Economist and the author of Twice A Stranger: How Mass Expulsion Forged Modern Greece and Turkey and Athens, City of Wisdom, joins Thanos Davelis to look at what the Treaty of Lausanne has meant on either side of the Aegean, explaining that while this difference in views may pose risks, a world without Lausanne would be much more dangerous.

Read Bruce Clark’s latest piece in Kathimerini: Survival and ambivalence: The story of Lausanne

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Russian consular services in occupied areas stirs debate

TASS: Russia to provide consular services in occupied Cyprus

Turkey inflation: Erdogan's policy U-turn tests patience

Pete Sessions’s junket to occupied Cyprus bolsters expansionist dictators

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 9 Aug 2023 17:56:12 +0000

Congressman Pete Sessions recently visited the Turkish occupied part of Cyprus, becoming the first American politician to fly directly into the unrecognized Turkish proxy state - against State Department advice - on a junket sponsored by the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Commerce. The visit was condemned by the Republic of Cyprus as well, which denounced it as a violation of international law and a departure from Washington’s official stance. Michael Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and former Pentagon official, joins Thanos Davelis to explain how Congressman Sessions’ stunt was not only deeply irresponsible, but does nothing to advance diplomacy, and is manna for expansionist dictators everywhere.

Read Michael Rubin’s latest: Pete Sessions’s occupied Cyprus junket bolsters dictators, undermines peace

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Gerapetritis: ‘Sovereignty not up for discussion’

Cyprus making progress with US visa waivers

Greece's energy landscape and the consequences of Russia's war in Ukraine

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 9 Aug 2023 09:04:29 +0000

It’s now been almost a year and a half since Russia invaded Ukraine, and the impact of Putin’s war can be felt from the geopolitical landscape to the global economy. A point of particular concern has been energy, as Europe has had to find ways to cut its reliance on Russian gas and oil. Georgia Nakou, a features editor at MacroPolis, a specialist website focused on political and economic analysis of Greek affairs, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how Greece's energy policy has been affected by Putin’s invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent EU sanctions on Russia, and explore what this means as Greece’s government looks to maintain an ambitious energy and climate policy.

Read Georgia Nakou’s analysis for the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung foundation: Energy Without Russia

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Defenseless against horde of hooligans

Fan killed in Greece during clashes between rival supporters

UEFA postpones AEK Athens-Dinamo Zagreb match after fan killed in brawl

Greek inflation strikes back

Congress puts the spotlight back on the US-Greece relationship

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 8 Aug 2023 08:18:02 +0000

It’s been a busy month in Washington, and Hellenic issues weren’t left out of the legislative agenda as Congresswoman Grace Meng and the Hellenic Caucus introduced an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act that once again puts the US-Greece relationship in the spotlight. A part of the amendment that has gotten a lot of media attention - with some headlines misquoting the bill - calls for a report assessing the potential for additional bases or an expanded US military presence in Greece. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to cut through the headlines and break down what Congress is really calling for with this NDAA amendment that’s once again showing Congress’s commitment to take the US-Greece partnership to new heights.

Read Endy Zemenides’ latest article in Kathimerini here: Beyond the hyperbolic headlines

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Justice minister praises handling of Limassol fire, hopes for a ‘better day’

Extreme weather conditions: EU sends assistance to Slovenia and Cyprus

Greece sends two Canadair fire fighting aircraft to help Cyprus fight a forest fire

Greece, Israel boost defense industry links

Is Erdogan shifting Turkey's foreign policy back to the West?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 5 Aug 2023 08:47:09 +0000

Following a decade-plus of fractured relations with key Western partners, including the US, Turkey’s President Erdogan has made some moves to seemingly rebuild these relationships. His decision on Sweden’s NATO membership at the summit in Vilnius and the toning down of his aggressive posturing in the Aegean against Greece are but a few examples. Despite this, many in NATO, as well as officials in the US government, openly question Erdogan’s commitment to the West. Expert Sinan Ciddi joins Thanos Davelis to break down that while some of these moves by Erdogan’s may appear promising - for now - we should abandon the notion that Erdogan’s Turkey will anchor itself with the West.

Read Sinan Ciddi’s latest piece here: Chasing The Mirage Of Turkey’s Western Orientation

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Cyprus condemns US congressman’s visit to Turkish-occupied Cyprus as a violation of international law

Greece is limiting Acropolis visitors from September

Greece's "beach towel movement" gains popularity, raising questions about the country's tourism model

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 4 Aug 2023 08:21:17 +0000

A new movement is underway in Greece, and is taking place on its beaches in the middle of the tourist season. Citizens on a number of popular islands have been mobilizing to reclaim their beaches from private businesses, a number of which have illegally covered the seafront with umbrellas and sunbeds. These demonstrations are already starting to have an impact, with the so-called “beach towel movement” not only raising questions about the sustainability of the current tourism model in Greece, but also taking on a political dimension. Nick Malkoutzis, the co-founder and editor of Macropolis.gr, a political and economic analysis site that focuses on Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the “beach towel movement” and its broader impact.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Government cracks down on sun lounger sprawl as public mood towards tourism sours

The spread of rented lounge chairs on Greece’s beaches brings a pledge to increase inspections

PM announces high-level cooperation council with Egypt

Turkey fumes as Disney axes founding father series after Armenian outcry

Turkey investigates reported cancellation of Disney Plus series on Ataturk

Greek-Albanian ties, Tirana's EU bid, and the Fredi Beleri case

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 3 Aug 2023 10:17:44 +0000

This week Albanian authorities finally moved to refer Fredi Beleri’s case to trial. The ethnic Greek elected mayor of Himare has been in pre-trial detention for months, and as a result has been unable to take the oath of office. His case has now become central to Greek-Albanian relations, with implications for other issues in the relationship - from efforts to resolve maritime disputes at the ICJ to the broader rights of the Greek minority. It is also impacting Albania’s path to EU membership, and respecting Beleri’s right to a fair trial is crucial if Tirana hopes to make progress on this front. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to look at how this case is testing Greek-Albanian relations, and look at why it matters if Albania hopes to move its EU membership bid forward.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Athens: Tirana violating Beleri’s right to fair trial

Greece offers free holiday to tourists who fled Rhodes fires

Greece offers free vacation on Rhodes to tourists affected by wildfires

US Representative Grace Meng applauds inclusion of amendment supporting Greece in defense policy bill

Tenth upgraded F-16 Viper jet delivered to Greece

The Beleri case: "For us, freedom is not self-evident"

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 2 Aug 2023 09:15:05 +0000

On March 11, 2023, the night before municipal elections in Albania, the then candidate for mayor of Himare, the ethnic Greek Fredi Beleri, and his aide, Pantelis Kokavesis, were arrested by the police for allegedly attempting to buy votes. Months later, and while he has already been elected mayor, Beleri remains in pre-trial detention. Greece has monitored this case closely, stressing to Albania that, as a candidate for EU membership it must strictly respect Beleri’s right to a fair trial. This was even brought up during a recent meeting between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and his Albanian counterpart Edi Rama on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Vilnius. Yiannis Souliotis, a journalist with Kathimerini who spoke with Fredi Beleri from prison, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss his exclusive interview with the imprisoned mayor of Himare and look at the latest developments in his case.

Read Yannis Souliotis’ interview with the imprisoned ethnic Greek mayor-elect of Himare: ‘For us, freedom is not self-evident’

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece’s government is planning tougher penalties for arson following a spate of wildfires

Ethnic Albanian party in North Macedonia offers deal to clear the way to join EU

How Greece is dealing with the double whammy of heat and wildfires

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 1 Aug 2023 09:18:30 +0000

Climate change is exacerbating weather extremes, making heat waves more frequent and more severe worldwide, and this summer has been the hottest on record. Heat waves are also causing yet another devastating wildfire season, and with data showing that the Eastern Mediterranean is warming twice as fast as the rest of the world, this is a particularly acute problem for countries like Greece. Professor Costas Synolakis joins Thanos Davelis to break down his latest op-ed in Kathimerini that explores how Greece is handling this double whammy of heat waves and wildfires.

Costas Synolakis is a professor at the University of Southern California and a member of the Academy of Athens and the US National Academy of Engineering. In 2019 he was elected Chairman of the newly established Special Scientific Committee on Climate Change in Greece.

Read Costas Synolakis’ latest piece in Kathimerini: Heatwaves and wildfires: How Greece is handling the double whammy

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

First investment grade decision

Greece and Cyprus reaffirm commitment to pursue peace settlement for Mediterranean island

Greece and Cyprus welcome EU bid to re-engage with Turkey, but urge caution

Turkey, Sweden, and the F-16s: Cutting through the noisy diplomacy

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 29 Jul 2023 06:21:34 +0000

It’s now been a couple of weeks since the NATO summit in Vilnius, where Turkey’s Erdogan was praised by other leaders - including President Biden - for lifting his objections to Sweden’s NATO membership bid. Once again, F-16 sales to Turkey were a top-of-the-agenda item ahead of Vilnius. Since the summit, while there have been countless headlines declaring “deals” and discussing details of alleged deals, Sweden is still not a member of NATO and the administration has not secured the clearance of congressional holds for an F-16 sale to Turkey. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to review what we know post-Vilnius, and cut through all the noisy diplomacy.

Read Endy Zemenides’ latest piece in Kathimerini: Cutting through noisy diplomacy

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

US Senator Menendez says he has not changed opposition to Turkey F-16 sale

US Senator calls for assurances for Greece, Cyprus in any upgrade of Turkish F-16s

Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders in joint appeal for information on missing

Greek wildfires die down after burning for nearly two weeks

49 years since the restoration of democracy in Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 09:33:06 +0000

Earlier this week Greece celebrated 49 years since the restoration of democracy after seven years of military dictatorship. With the return of democracy, Greece began a new period of stability, one anchored in the West. This was evident a few years later when Greece joined the European Union. Since then, Greece has proven its democratic resilience time and again, especially in the midst of the decade-long financial crisis in the previous decade. Harris Mylonas, an associate professor of political science and international affairs at the George Washington Elliott School of International Affairs and the producer of the groundbreaking documentary about Andreas Papandreou and PASOK, “Searching for Andreas: Political Leadership in Times of Crisis”, joins Thanos Davelis to look at this historic moment and explore its legacy today.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

The Day Democracy Was Restored in Greece After the Junta

Wildfire in Greece triggers explosions at an ammunition depot and the relocation of fighter jets

US Senator Menendez says he has not changed opposition to Turkey F-16 sale

US Senator calls for assurances for Greece, Cyprus in any upgrade of Turkish F-16s

Why going to the International Court is Greece's best option

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 27 Jul 2023 07:17:25 +0000

Following the meeting between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Turkish President Erdogan at the NATO summit, we’ve heard Mitsotakis talk of a new “bold agenda” in Greek-Turkish relations. As the Greek prime minister laid out, this agenda could include going to the International Court of Justice at the Hague to resolve the key disputes in the Aegean. Expert Constantinos Filis, the Director of the Institute of Global Affairs and an associate professor of international relations at the American College of Greece, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss his latest piece in Kathimerini in which he makes the case that going to the Hague is Greece’s best option.

Read Constaninos Filis’ latest in Kathimerini here: Why the International Court is our best option

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Greece sees some wildfire respite, though stubborn blazes rage on

EU migration deal faces delays after talks snag

Watchdog investigates EU border agency’s role after Greece boat disaster

Mastic producers in Greece innovate to confront the new realities of climate change

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 07:07:44 +0000

As Greece faces a prolonged heatwave and battles wildfires across the country, the realities of rising temperatures and climate change have long been evident and are impacting every aspect of life. Steven Tagle joins Thanos Davelis to look at how climate change is impacting local communities in Greece, specifically the mastic producers on the Aegean island of Chios, who have been battered by high temperatures, unseasonable rains, and past wildfires, and break down how are they innovating to better prepare and cope for the impacts of climate change.

Read Steven Tagles piece here: Mastic producers in Greece innovate as climate change threatens harvest

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Local communities confront the new reality of climate change

Plane fighting wildfires in Greece crashes with two aboard

Three days of mourning for pilots killed fighting fires in Evia

Turkish authorities give permission for service at Sumela Monastery

Greece is "fighting a war" against wildfires

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 09:23:14 +0000

Wildfires have continued to rage across Greece, with Prime Minister Mitsotakis saying on Monday that the country is “fighting a war” against the fires. Greece’s fire service capabilities have been stretched as new fires emerge amid a sweltering heatwave. In Rhodes, where a wildfire has cut across the island, the government and locals have mounted the largest ever island evacuation to move close to 19,000 people to safety. Evacuations have also taken place on Corfu and in other locations. Eleni Varvitsioti, the Financial Times correspondent for Greece and Cyprus based in Athens, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest update on the wildfires burning across Greece and the ongoing efforts to not only extinguish the flames, but rescue people in harm's way.

Read Eleni Varvitsioti’s latest reports in the Financial Times:

Repatriation flights begin for tourists stranded on Rhodes

Greece mounts mass evacuation from wildfire-hit Rhodes

Scorching Europe struggles to adapt to near-record temperatures

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Rhodes: ‘The Greek people and volunteers have been amazing’

Rhodes blaze cannot be contained

Menendez introduces favorable amendment for arms sales to Cyprus

Erdogan makes talks difficult

Erdogan looks to the West and the Gulf amid economic challenges

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 22 Jul 2023 08:24:04 +0000

This month Turkey’s President Erdogan finally ended his opposition to Sweden’s NATO membership bid after months of brinkmanship and threats, while this week saw him travel to the oil-rich Gulf in a bid to attract investment and bolster his country’s ailing economy. Prof. Henri Barkey, the Cohen Professor of International Relations at Lehigh University and Adjunct Senior Fellow for Middle East Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis to break down how Erdogan’s real problem, and the reason behind his decision on Sweden’s NATO membership and his engagement with the Gulf, is the enormous economic challenge that Turkey is facing - much of it his own doing.

Read Henri Barkey’s latest here: Calling Erdogan’s bluff on NATO

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Saudi Arabia buys Turkish drones during Erdogan’s visit

UAE and Turkey sign multibillion-dollar agreements

Greece faces hottest July weekend in 50 years, forecaster says, as scores of wildfires rage

Wildfires in Greece burn for fifth day as another heatwave hits

Turkey to send three firefighting aircraft to Greece

The EU has revealed its blueprint to curb migration

Greece battles multiple wildfires amid heatwave

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 17:33:50 +0000

Firefighting aircraft and ground crews from other countries headed to Greece on Thursday to help battle wildfires that have intensified as southern Europe faces a prolonged heat wave. While firefighters have contained some of the wildfires near Athens, officials are on alert, warning that “the worst is yet to come,” as Southern Europe’s second heat wave in as many weeks brings extreme temperatures to Mediterranean countries. Derek Gatopoulos, a correspondent for the Associated Press who has been covering news in Greece for more than 25 years, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest updates on the wildfires, and to look at how Greece and Athens are coping with the intense heat wave.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Wildfires in Greece largely contained, new heatwave looms

Heatwaves to persist to month’s end

Grid is seen holding, for now

UAE and Turkey sign multibillion-dollar agreements

Saudi Arabia buys Turkish drones during Erdogan’s visit

Can Cyprus reunification talks be revived?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 07:39:47 +0000

July 20th marks another black anniversary of Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus in 1974. 49 years later, the northern part of Cyprus remains illegally occupied. President Christodoulides recently expressed cautious optimism about efforts to resume talks, however, and Turkey’s desire to re-engage with the EU - as President Erdogan suggested at the NATO summit - puts the focus back on Cyprus. Endy Zemenides, the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, joins Thanos Davelis to break down whether there is space for reunification talks to be revived and what role the UN, EU and the US can play.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

President exudes ''cautious optimism'' for Cyprus problem resolution

Security Council Press Statement on Cyprus

Cyprus seeks to revive peace talks with Turkey over divided island

Official warns the worst is yet to come

Nexans wins EuroAsia Interconnector contract

Russia pulls out of the Black Sea grain deal. What next?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 19:08:44 +0000

On Monday Russia pulled out of an agreement that had allowed Ukraine to export its grain by sea despite a wartime blockade, a deal seen as essential to keeping food flowing from Ukraine — a major breadbasket — to the wider world. Expert Max Bergmann joins Thanos Davelis to break down why Russia has decided to terminate this agreement, what’s at stake if the deal isn’t renewed, and whether Ukraine, Europe, and the US have a plan B ready. We also explore what efforts are in the works to deepen the West’s engagement with Ukraine - primarily on the NATO and EU level.

Max Bergman is the director of the Center in Euro-Atlantic and Northern European Studies and the Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program, both at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, and a former senior advisor in the U.S. State Department.

Read Max Bergman’s latest here: The EU Isn’t Ready for Ukraine to Join

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Russia killed off the Black Sea grain deal. What happens now?

Russia pulls out of the Black Sea grain deal

Wildfires in Greece close highways and threaten an oil refinery, as the EU sends firefighting planes

Settlements evacuated as wildfires spread

President exudes ''cautious optimism'' for Cyprus problem resolution

A “bold agenda” in Greek-Turkish relations

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 07:50:32 +0000

Last week, a day after meeting with Turkish President Erdogan at the NATO summit, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced the promotion of a “bold agenda” in Greek-Turkish relations with the ultimate aim of bringing the issue of the delimitation of the continental shelf and the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) to the International Court of Justice in The Hague. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to discuss this new agenda in Greek-Turkish relations, look at the difficult road leading to the Hague, and more.

Read Vassilis Nedos’ latest here:

The difficult road leading to The Hague

‘Let’s face the future challenges squarely’

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Wildfires rage near Greek capital, houses damaged

1,200 children evacuated from summer camp as blaze nears

After heat wave, wildfires force thousands to flee seaside resorts outside Greek capital

Greece to begin selling bank stakes this autumn-sources

Does Erdogan's NATO move signal a pivot away from Russia and toward the West?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 15 Jul 2023 09:41:56 +0000

President Erdogan’s recent “U-turn” on Sweden’s accession to NATO has led to a number of observers wondering whether Turkey may be pivoting away from Russia and returning to the West, with some asking how long Erdogan’s special relationship with Putin can last. Amberin Zaman, a senior correspondent reporting from the Middle East, North Africa and Europe exclusively for Al-Monitor, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why none of Erdogan’s latest moves amount to a pivot away from Russia any more than they signal a real reset with the West. Instead, this is simply Erdogan navigating Ankara’s relationships in ways that he believes best benefit Turkey’s interests and above all his own political survival.

Read Amberin Zaman’s latest piece in Al Monitor here: Erdogan’s NATO moves agitate Russia but don’t spell Turkey's sharp shift to West

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Russia’s war might have a new casualty: The Putin-Erdogan bond

Turkey’s Double Dealing in the Ukraine War

Tourism enjoys total recovery

Bold agenda for Greek-Turkish relations

Is the Turkey-NATO deal on Sweden a Pyrrhic victory?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 18:17:23 +0000

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg announced that a deal had been reached with Turkey’s President Erdogan in order to lift his veto on Sweden’s NATO accession. While the announcement was followed by celebrations, Sweden still needs Turkey’s parliament to approve its membership - which could take months. It looks like Turkey also now anticipates the lifting of most defense-related sanctions, and expects Europe to move on its EU accession process. Michael Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and former Pentagon official, joins Thanos Davelis to look into the details of this deal, and break down why Erdogan walking away from this high-stakes poker game with new concessions is problematic.

Read Michael Rubin’s latest here:

The Turkey-NATO Deal On Sweden Is A Disaster

Sweden Surrenders

The Turkey-Iran terror nexus in occupied Cyprus shakes the status quo

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Security Council Press Statement on Cyprus

Nicosia welcomes UN security council support for new envoy

PM raises ethnic Greek mayor’s arrest with Rama

‘For us, freedom is not self-evident’

The Mitsotakis-Erdogan meeting and the potential for a reset in Greek-Turkish relations

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 08:48:31 +0000

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Turkish President Erdogan agreed to resume talks and confidence-building measures as they hailed a new “positive climate” following their meeting on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Vilnius. Despite the latest announcements and the recent shift in tone from Ankara, fundamental differences remain. Professor Kostas Ifantis joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the main takeaways from the Mitsotakis-Erdogan meeting as the two leaders agreed to repair ties while maintaining “calm waters” in the Aegean, explore what this effort could look like in the coming months, and break down the role Washington should play in this reset attempt.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Summit agreement for restart with Turkey

Mitsotakis, Erdogan hail ‘positive climate’ in Greece-Turkey ties

Restart attempt with Turkey via US

Achtsioglou announces candidacy for SYRIZA leadership

Former SYRIZA finance minister set to announce leadership bid

Erdogan’s government to discuss Sweden’s NATO ratification with nationalist ally, official says

Greece prepares for heatwave as scientists warn that global heat is in 'uncharted territory'

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 09:53:45 +0000

Greece is currently bracing for its first major and prolonged heatwave of the summer, with temperatures over the next few days expected to reach and exceed 40 degrees Celsius. The country’s health, labor and citizens’ protection ministries issued emergency warnings on Monday to citizens, while the City of Athens is also taking action to deal with the phenomenon. Elissavet Bargianni, the Head of the Resilience and Sustainability Department of the City of Athens and its Chief Heat Officer, joins Thanos Davelis to explore the dangers rising temperatures and climate change pose for cities like Athens, break down how the city is building resilience and finding solutions to make sure it can meet these challenges in the decades to come, and look at the steps Athens is taking ahead of this new heatwave.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

City of Athens climate action plan

Greece bracing for impact of heatwave Kleon

Guidelines for beating the heat

Italy heatwave could push temperatures close to European record

US to move ahead with transfer of F-16 jets to Turkey

Restart attempt with Turkey via US

Erdogan shifts the goalposts on Sweden's NATO bid ahead of crucial summit

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 19:06:35 +0000

On the eve of the NATO summit in Vilnius it appears that Turkish President Erdogan is once again moving the goalposts when it comes to Sweden’s NATO membership bid, attempting to put progress on Turkey’s EU membership on the table as well. At the same time, President Biden and Erdogan also discussed the potential sale of US F-16 fighter jets to Turkey, and with Ankara introducing new demands at the 11th hour, the link between Sweden’s NATO accession and the issue of F-16s is under the spotlight as well. Steven Cook, the Eni Enrico Mattei Senior Fellow for Middle East and Africa Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis to look ahead at what is likely to be a dramatic NATO summit.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Sweden still not ready for NATO, Erdoğan tells Biden

US could agree to sell Turkey F-16 jets so it will allow Sweden to join Nato

US, Turkey edge closer to deal on Sweden’s NATO membership; bargaining over F-16s

As NATO Gathers, Unity Among the Alliance Has Become Harder to Sustain

Mitsotakis, Erdogan hoping for a reset

Erdogan’s difficult equation in NATO

Temperatures set to climb

Italy heatwave could push temperatures close to European record

Has the West given Turkey too much leverage over Sweden?

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 8 Jul 2023 07:59:52 +0000

With the NATO Summit at Vilnius around the corner, everyone’s attention is on Turkey and whether it will lift its veto over Sweden’s NATO membership bid. This is also putting the focus on Turkey’s request to purchase F-16 jets from the US. Endy Zemenides, HALC’s Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis to break down how NATO allies have given Turkey too much leverage when it comes to Sweden’s membership bid and look at the latest developments on the proposed sale of F-16s to Turkey. We also look at how Greece’s elections have led to a shakeup in Greece’s representation in the US and what this means for US-Greece relations, while assessing if there is any new momentum on the Cyprus issue.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

NATO’s Welcome Party for Sweden Is Back on Ice

Swedish NATO membership: No deal with Turkey, leaders meet next week

Greece pledges more high defense spending, seeks F-35 fleet

NATO allies to spend ‘at least 2%’ of GDP on defense, diplomats say

FDI in Greece at record levels

Mitsotakis pledges to step up reforms in new term

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 7 Jul 2023 09:52:30 +0000

This week Prime Minister Mitsotakis presented his new government’s vision for Greece over the next few years, pledging to step up the pace of reforms in order to take Greece to the next level. Some of the key steps he outlined include debt reduction, bringing incomes for Greeks significantly closer to European levels, promising to crack down on tax evasion and to reform the country's health sector, and committing to legalize same-sex marriage. At the same time, Mitsotakis has stated that he is looking to build a new consensus in the center ground of Greek politics. Nikos Efstathiou, a journalist and author in Greece and the deputy editor in chief at the weekly magazine LiFO, joins Thanos Davelis to look at Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ ambitious agenda as his second term kicks off.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

PM vows to take Greece to next level

Greece's re-elected PM outlines government goals up to 2027

Mitsotakis Steps Up Reforms to Send Greek Crisis to History

Same-Sex Marriage Is Part of Reelected Greek PM’s LGBTQ Plan

‘Strategic’ relations highlighted at US Independence Day event

Greece welcomes deescalation in the eastern Mediterranean without directly referring to Turkey

Turkish games within NATO: The naming of the straits and Cyprus

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Thu, 6 Jul 2023 08:44:51 +0000

It looks like Turkey is trying to pack as much as it can into the agenda of the crucial NATO Summit in Vilnius later this month. Aside from Turkey’s veto over Sweden’s NATO membership, Ankara has also put a freeze on NATO’s new operational maps by raising questions about the naming of the Dardanelles and the Bosporus straits in the new operational maps, and taking issue with the reference of the Republic of Cyprus in the plans as well. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini’s diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why Ankara has derailed NATO regional procedures, and look at why this matters.

Read the latest by Vassilis Nedos on this issue:

Ankara derails NATO regional procedures

US proposal to break NATO map deadlock

Wait-and-see mood in Athens over Turkey

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Turkish games in the Straits

Mitsotakis Steps Up Reforms to Send Greek Crisis to History

Turkey says Quran burning in Sweden raises questions about its reliability as a possible NATO member

Turkey's Erdogan says Sweden's NATO steps undermined by protests

The future of tourism in Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Mon, 3 Jul 2023 17:21:48 +0000

We’re well into the summer, and the tourist season is in full swing in Greece. With more and more visitors looking to experience Greece every year, a discussion has kicked off about the future of tourism in Greece and the need for sustainability in the industry. Expert Daniel Levine, who contributed to this discussion at Kathimerini’s recent “Reimagine Tourism in Greece” conference, joins Thanos Davelis to look at the latest global trends in tourism and break down the challenges ahead for Greece as it looks to adapt and strengthen its brand as a top tourist destination.

Daniel Levine one of the world’s best-known trends experts, and is the director of the Avant-Guide Institute, a New York-based trends consultancy where he is the leader of a huge team of trendspotters who track the latest ideas and experiences from around the globe. As a consultant, Daniel works with many of the top names in travel including American Express, UNWTO, South African Tourism, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Virtuoso Network and many more.

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Are Greeks happy with tourism?

Tourism is in need of shifts

Restart seen in talks between Greece, Turkey

Greece’s new parliament sworn in following conservative party’s election victory

Week in Review

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Sat, 1 Jul 2023 06:32:49 +0000

HALC's Erini Kosmas and HALC Managing Director Georgia Logothetis break down the week's developments on migration, the economy, Turkey, and more.

The Syriza shakeup and the future of the left in Greece

admin@hellenicleaders.com (Hellenic Leaders) — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 07:01:44 +0000

HALC's Erini Kosmas interviews Harris Mylonas about Syriza's defeat in the last election, the resignation of Alexis Tsipras from Syriza's leadership, and the future of the left in Greece in the wake of New Democracy's massive victory