Greece Opposes Turkey’s Involvement in EU Defense Initiative, Warns ‘We Cannot Defend Europe with the Enemy Inside’

Tensions are rising within the European Union over Türkiye’s potential participation in the EU’s new defense funding mechanism, SAFE (Security Action for Europe)—a nearly €800 billion rearmament project intended to support member and candidate states in building defense capacity.

While Türkiye has emerged as a strategic partner in recent geopolitical conflicts, including in Ukraine and the Middle East, its inclusion in EU defense programs has sparked backlash from Greece, particularly from Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias.

“If the enemy is within the gates, we cannot defend Europe,” Dendias said, openly rejecting Türkiye’s involvement.

Türkiye Positioned as a Strategic Ally

Despite not being an EU member, Türkiye is NATO’s second-largest military force after the United States, and its logistical, diplomatic, and military weight has made it an indispensable partner for the European bloc. Ankara’s mediator role in recent conflicts and its geostrategic position bridging Europe, the Middle East, and the Caucasus have strengthened its case for inclusion in EU security initiatives.

Under the SAFE funding mechanism, which offers nearly interest-free loans repayable by 2030, countries contributing to Europe’s collective defense posture are expected to receive support. Türkiye is reportedly among the top candidates to benefit from this program.

Athens Pushes Back: ‘EU Values at Stake’

Greek authorities, however, argue that the issue is not solely about military capability but also shared democratic values. At the heart of Athens’ resistance is the claim that Türkiye does not align with EU norms on democracy, the rule of law, and human rights.

Dendias emphasized:

“Only countries that embrace the values of the EU should take part in this project.”

In response, Greece has instructed its embassies across Europe to formally raise objections to Türkiye’s involvement. But according to diplomatic sources, these efforts have been met with closed doors in Brussels, where qualified majority voting—rather than unanimity—is now the standard for defense decisions, limiting Athens’ veto power.

Türkiye’s Rise in EU Defense Circles

Türkiye’s inclusion in the SAFE framework has been under discussion in EU capitals for months. The country’s proximity to major conflict zones and robust defense production—combined with its role as a regional power broker—are seen by many European leaders as reasons to bring Türkiye closer to EU defense frameworks, even if full membership remains stalled.

Conclusion: A Divided but Shifting EU

While Greece continues to voice concerns, the broader EU sentiment appears to lean toward strategic pragmatism over ideological exclusivity. The SAFE program, designed to bolster Europe’s defense capabilities amid escalating global threats, may well proceed with Türkiye as a non-member partner, despite resistance from Athens.