Turkey expressed its dissatisfaction on Thursday morning over the discussions and announcements made a few days ago in Athens between Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Emmanuel Macron during the French president’s visit. In a statement, the Turkish Ministry of Defense referred to remarks by European leaders that “target Ankara,” adding that such statements are not in line with the principles of alliance and solidarity.

The statement specifically mentions both France and Greece, arguing that statements and scenarios being discussed “increase tension and risk undermining regional peace and stability.” Turkey also stressed that any military alliance aimed against it “has no chance of success.”

“As our minister has emphasized, in every issue concerning security and stability, those who choose to stand against Turkey will not benefit, unlike those who cooperate with it,” the statement said.

It further reiterated that any military cooperation or alliance directed against Turkey “will not succeed,” adding that in matters of security and stability, “those who choose cooperation with Turkey rather than confrontation will be the ones who benefit.”

It is recalled that during his visit to Athens, Macron told Mitsotakis that “if your sovereignty is threatened, do whatever is necessary—we will be there for you.” A few days earlier, during his visit to Cyprus, he had also discussed with Nikos Christodoulides the strengthening of France’s presence in the region in terms of security.

Reactions to potential French military presence in Cyprus

The Turkish Ministry of National Defense also commented on reports of a possible deployment of French military forces to Cyprus, expressing reservations about the motives behind such a move.

According to the statement, Turkey remains committed to international law and to promoting peace and stability in the region, but made it clear that it will not accept concessions on issues concerning its national interests and those of Northern Cyprus.

The ministry added that the security status of Cyprus is defined by international agreements and that Turkey is a guarantor power. It also noted that reports about sending French troops to Southern Cyprus are not accompanied by a clear justification regarding the security needs they would address.

“Such initiatives may disrupt the fragile balance in the region and intensify tensions,” the statement said, with Turkey calling for the avoidance of actions that could undermine stability and create new security risks.