Greece Moves to Block Turkey’s Entry into EU Defense Projects

Greece is intensifying efforts to restrict Turkey’s participation in the development of the European defense industry, as EU member states prepare to finalize a new framework governing third-country involvement in sensitive defense initiatives.

The Greek Foreign Ministry has instructed its ambassadors across the EU to press their counterparts in foreign and defense ministries on this issue. Officials in Athens argue that Greece has already shown considerable flexibility, but that its security concerns must be acknowledged as the EU reshapes its defense strategy under the proposed SAFE (Security Action For Europe) regulation.

Greece Pushes for Veto Power in Third-Country Deals

At the heart of the debate is the European Commission’s proposal to allow qualified majority voting for decisions on third-country involvement in EU defense initiatives. This shift would effectively eliminate Greece’s veto power over defense partnerships involving countries like Turkey.

Athens is lobbying to preserve unanimity on such decisions—especially where non-EU companies, such as Baykar (linked to Turkey) or Piaggio Aerospace, are concerned.

“Joint ventures with third countries must be governed by strict conditions,” a senior Greek official noted, referring to Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ recent meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, where the issue was raised explicitly.

Turkey Fails to Meet EU Criteria for Defense Partnership

Greece’s objections rest on two key points: Turkey’s low alignment (6%) with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) and its ongoing tensions with Cyprus, which violate the EU’s good-neighborly relations condition.

In contrast, Serbia—another non-EU country—meets nearly 60% of CFSP alignment and is progressing toward deeper defense collaboration with the EU.

This makes Turkey ineligible for any formal security and defense partnership agreement with Brussels, leaving its participation in the EU’s €800 billion defense rearmament effort politically sensitive and legally constrained.

France and Greece Want to Limit Non-EU Participation

Greece has found a close ally in France, which shares concerns over foreign influence in EU defense projects. Both countries advocate reducing the cap on non-EU ownership in joint ventures from 35% to 15%, aiming to keep EU defense spending inside Europe.

Meanwhile, the UK has recently concluded negotiations for its participation under a special formula, and an official announcement is expected soon. However, discussions with Turkey remain stalled, and Athens wants stricter definitions on what qualifies as a “like-minded” partner.

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