Turkey has criticized Greece’s reported plans to establish a drone base on Rhodes, claiming the move would violate the island’s demilitarized status and threaten peace and stability in the Aegean.
In a statement issued Thursday, Turkey’s Defense Ministry said the proposed unmanned aerial vehicle facility would be incompatible with Greece’s obligations under international law.
“Any attempt to violate this regime is incompatible with Greece’s obligations under international law,” the ministry said, while asserting that Turkey would continue to defend what it considers its rights and interests under international treaties.
The statement comes amid ongoing disagreements between Athens and Ankara over the military status of several Aegean islands and broader defense arrangements in the region.
Turkey also welcomed Greece’s decision to relocate a Patriot air defense system from Karpathos to Crete.
Ankara described the move as a positive development, arguing that it could contribute to reversing what Turkey considers the militarization of the islands in breach of international agreements.
“As Turkey, we will continue to support all constructive steps that contribute to strengthening peace and stability in our region and that comply with international law and treaty obligations,” the Defense Ministry said.
Greece has repeatedly rejected Turkish claims concerning the demilitarization of its Aegean islands and maintains that it has the right to take necessary measures to protect its territory and national security.
Turkey’s Own Drone Activity in the Aegean
The Turkish criticism comes as Ankara continues to use unmanned aerial systems in activities affecting areas claimed by Greece, including operations and surveillance linked to disputed maritime zones and Greece’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Athens has repeatedly raised concerns over Turkish drone activity in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean, viewing such operations as part of broader Turkish military and surveillance activity in areas where the two countries have competing claims.
The contrast has drawn attention in Greece, particularly as Turkey objects to Greek plans for a drone facility on Rhodes while maintaining its own extensive drone capabilities and operations in the wider Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean region.
The latest exchange highlights the continuing sensitivity surrounding defense deployments in the Aegean, despite efforts by Athens and Ankara to maintain dialogue and improve bilateral relations.
