Recurrent airspace violations continue in the central and southern Aegean above tiny Greek islets that are under dispute by Turkey. The Greek Defense Ministry, as cited by Reuters, stated that it registered 138 violations of Greek airspace over the islets. All violators are reported to have been “intercepted.”
Adding fuel to the already existing fire is Turkey’s recent fallout with Greece after Greece’s Supreme Court ruled that the 8 Turkish servicemen suspected of participating in the July 15 failed coup attempt will not be extradited. The mounting tension between the two countries — both members of NATO — has prompted what is now a historical dispute over who the islets belong to.
But it doesn’t end there, Turkey’s evident displeasure over the court’s decision has also brought forth another issue to contend with. Greece’s failure to comply with the extradition request has become cause for the neighboring country to issue threats on rescinding the EU-Turkey migrant deal
“We have a readmission agreement between us and Greece, with the European Union. We are going to take necessary steps, including the cancellation of this readmission agreement,” he said.
While one issue seems to exacerbate another, regarding the airspace violations Greek Defense Minister Panos Kammenos told Antenna television that Greece will not be looking for trouble and aims for peace, however, “there won’t be an aircraft that will not be intercepted” he stated.
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