Zelenskyy and Greek PM Commit to Strengthen Bilateral Security Agreement Efforts

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently spoke with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on the telephone to discuss advancing cooperation on defence matters, particularly bolstering Ukraine's air defence capabilities.

Zelenskyy highlighted the significance of implementing agreements established during Mitsotakis' recent visit to Ukraine, where defence cooperation was a key agenda item. Notably, discussions revolved around reinforcing Ukraine's air defence systems. During the conversation, Zelenskyy underscored the importance of protecting Ukrainian airspace, referencing a recent Russian strike on Kyiv.

The president stressed the commitment to intensify efforts aimed at reaching a bilateral security agreement within the framework of the G7 Vilnius Declaration.

Background:

During Mitsotakis' visit to Odesa in early March, Russia launched an attack on the city, coinciding with his presence in the area. Zelenskyy and Mitsotakis were together in the port area of Odesa when the attack occurred, and while they narrowly avoided harm, the explosion occurred in close proximity to them.

Reports indicated that the missile exploded just 500 meters away from Zelenskyy and Mitsotakis, prompting swift condemnation from senior EU officials. European Council President Charles Michel condemned the Russian attack as "reprehensible and below even the Kremlin’s playbook," while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described it as vile.