23.08.2025 15:24
President Erdoğan's description of Macron as a "valuable friend" and their upcoming meeting at the UN summit has created a "diplomatic earthquake" effect in Greece. The Greek press reported that Turkey is gaining ground, while Athens is becoming isolated, with comments noting that "even Cyprus might turn its back on us."
President Erdoğan's characterization of French President Emmanuel Macron as a "valuable friend" and the announcement that they will meet at the UN Summit in New York in September has resonated widely in Greece.
"WHILE TURKEY WINS ON THE GROUND..."
The Greek media outlet Thess Today emphasized that "Turkey and France are closing old chapters and opening a new page for defense industry cooperation," highlighting that Athens has remained passive in this process. The report noted, "We are left with only Rafale jets. While Turkey wins on the ground, we have been stalled at the negotiating table."
"CYPRUS MAY TURN ITS BACK ON US"
Comments in the Greek media pointed out that Turkey has become a global actor simultaneously mediating in the Russia-Ukraine war, advocating for humanitarian values in Gaza, and maintaining dialogue with Europe. Athens has been criticized for falling into the position of a "country that follows others' statements." The report also included the statement, "If this continues, even Cyprus may turn its back on us. It could shift towards Paris and Ankara." These assessments reinforced the perception that Greece may become isolated in the region and that Turkey has emerged as a central country in the new geopolitical balances.
COOPERATION ON THE TURKEY-FRANCE LINE
Recently, President Erdoğan stated in a phone call with Macron that they discussed many issues, from the Russia-Ukraine peace process to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Erdoğan indicated that they agreed to enhance cooperation between Turkey and France, particularly in the defense industry, signaling that the dialogue between the two countries would deepen.
ATHENS HAD BEEN LEFT ALONE IN NATO
During the NATO Summit in June, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis being left alone among leaders was also a topic in the media. It was noted that Mitsotakis was neither able to participate in discussions nor show diplomatic reflexes. Images where U.S. President Donald Trump seemingly ignored him led to comments in the Greek public that "we have been left alone in NATO." The distant interactions with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz also drew criticism, while social media saw comments referring to Mitsotakis as a "figurant."
This loneliness and discussions of diplomatic passivity in Greece became even more pronounced when compared to Turkey's effective diplomacy on the ground. Erdoğan's contacts with European and regional actors highlighted Turkey's increasing role, while Athens' missed opportunities led to harsh criticisms in the Greek media.