“The Armed Forces exercise is part of the cycle of surprise drills conducted every year; it has nothing to do with the Piri Reis, which was not discussed at the KYSEA,” stressed Minister of National Defense Nikos Dendias, responding to journalists shortly after the end of the council meeting.

“Take a look at a photo of the Piri Reis and you’ll understand why it wasn’t discussed at KYSEA,” Mr. Dendias added meaningfully.

At KYSEA, the presentation of the fourth frigate also took place. “The Themistocles is not just the fourth frigate. It is the fourth Belharra Standard 2++ frigate,” with enhanced capabilities, said the Defense Minister, noting that the previous three frigates will also reach the same level. The legislative act is ready and will be submitted to Parliament today.

What was discussed at KYSEA

Sources report that during KYSEA, the Piri Reis itself was not discussed, but rather the correlation being made between the readiness exercise of the Armed Forces and the prospect of the oceanographic vessel setting out. That is why Mr. Dendias, in his statements to the cameras, decoupled the mobilization of the Armed Forces from the potential activity of the research vessel.

Discussion also took place on the migration issue, focusing mainly on the situation that developed in Crete. The central assessment remains that Crete’s facilities will be decongested by the end of the week through the transfer of migrants to the closed facilities in Serres and Malakasa.

According to sources, the Greek side also wants to assess in the coming days whether the recent increase in flows was intentional or merely a coincidental phenomenon.

As for the possible extension of the asylum application suspension regime, which expires on 11/10, sources say the issue was not discussed. As it was stated, this is not a matter for KYSEA. The decision will be taken based on actual data in the field. What concerns the Greek government is that the majority of arrivals are from Sudan, and therefore have a strong refugee profile.

According to sources, during the session, Minister of Migration Thanos Plevris advocated for even more active deterrence at sea.

Pavlos Marinakis’ announcement on KYSEA

The Government Council for National Security (KYSEA) convened under Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

During the meeting, Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis provided a briefing on recent international and regional developments.

Additionally, Defense Minister Nikos Dendias gave an update on the Armed Forces’ armament programs and the exercise of the option for a 4th FDI-type frigate.

Finally, Minister of Migration Policy Thanos Plevris delivered a briefing on the migration issue.