US warns Turkey over Greek island sovereignty threats

The US Department of State has warned Turkey over its recent threats concerning the sovereignty of Greek islands issuing on strong message on Friday, noting that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries must be respected and protected.

Specifically, the Department of State spokesperson noted that "the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries must be respected and protected. We continue to encourage our allies in NATO, Greece and Turkey, to work together to maintain peace and security in the region and to resolve disputes through diplomacy. We urge our allies to refrain from rhetoric that could further escalate tension. Greece and Turkey are both strong partners and key NATO allies of the United States."

It should be noted that the US State Department has responded quickly on any doubts cast on the sovereignty of Greek islands, as every time the Turkish foreign minister has attempted to raise such an issue with his statements, the US State Department has taken an immediate stance in the matter.

A State Department spokesman has clarified in two statements, on February 11 and June 2, that Greece's sovereignty of these islands is beyond questioning.

"The sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries must be respected and protected. Greece's sovereignty on these island is not in doubt," the US State Department said.