The Turkish foreign ministry issued a press release charging that Greek Defense Minister Panos Kammenos, head of the small, rightist Independent Greeks (ANEL) party in the current government coalition, is being “provocative” and “unacceptable”, claiming that Kammenos is responsible for raising tensions in the Aegean since taking office.
No details were given, however, as to what “provocative actions” Kammenos has taken, besides touring several Greek isles in the eastern Aegean. Turkey, who also refuses to sign and ratify the International Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), also said it will protect its rights under international law in the Aegean.
The announcement is as follows: