Mitsotakis: There Must Be No Complacency – Large Refugee Flows Cannot Be Ruled Out

“There must be no complacency,” said Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, stressing that alertness is necessary and that the possibility of large refugee flows cannot be excluded.

He added that Iran must abandon its political ambitions, while the security of Lebanon must be ensured.

The Greek Prime Minister made particular reference to the repatriation of Greeks from the conflict zone. “We must support the Lebanese government and reject large-scale military operations, especially in southern Lebanon,” he said.

“My brothers, I am here, alongside all Greek women and men. We would stand by you even if we were alone. But we are not alone. Greece and Europe…”

Mitsotakis: “Every Inch of European Territory is Inviolable – Our Actions are Purely Defensive”

The Greek Prime Minister thanked Emmanuel Macron for his decision to visit Cyprus, emphasizing the importance of strategic agreements and noting that the Greece-France strategic relationship has been tested in practice. He added that it reflects the essence of the EU defense clause.

“Europe remains a responsible power, capable of shaping global developments,” he said.

“Every inch of European territory is inviolable. Our actions are purely defensive, far from any war involvement. Our goal is the defensive fortification of a member state under threat,” Mitsotakis stated.

He noted that the world is experiencing unprecedented turmoil with unknown consequences.

Operation “Shields” serves as a concrete assurance, and he called on other member states to participate.

Mitsotakis: “Every inch of European soil is inviolable. Our actions are purely defensive”

The Greek Prime Minister thanked Emmanuel Macron for his decision to visit Cyprus, emphasizing that strategic agreements are important and that the Greece–France strategic partnership has been tested in practice. He noted that it reflects the essence of the EU’s defense clause.

“Europe remains a responsible power, capable of shaping global developments,” he said.

“Every inch of European soil is inviolable. Our actions are purely defensive. We stay clear of any military engagement. Our aim is the defensive fortification of a member state that is under threat,” Mitsotakis added.

He also highlighted that the world is experiencing unprecedented turmoil with unknown consequences.

The Operation Shields mission serves as a practical assurance, and he called on other EU member states to participate.

Mitsotakis: Cyprus is not and will never be alone

“From here, we are sending a common, clear, strong, and decisive message of unity and solidarity. A clear message that Cyprus, part of the European family, is not and will never be alone,” said Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, emphasizing that the security of the island is a priority.

He added that the Greek Armed Forces were the first to respond, arriving immediately in Cyprus, and noted that it will be historic that the first mission of the frigate Kimon is taking place here.

Macron: Energy will be on the G7 agenda

Macron said that G7 contacts on energy will continue and that further coordination on the issue is planned.

“The union of a Europe that knows how to defend itself is decisive,” he added.

Macron: French presence will continue in the Mediterranean, Red Sea, and Strait of Hormuz

He emphasized that France is closely monitoring Hezbollah’s misstep in attacking Lebanon as well as Israel’s response to Hezbollah’s actions.

“Our goal is to stop Hezbollah from carrying out any attacks. At the same time, Israel must halt attacks against Lebanon so that hostilities can cease. Our mission is defensive,” Macron said.

He expressed France’s solidarity with the people of Lebanon. “Our aim is to achieve peace. Beyond our positions, the French presence will continue in the Mediterranean, the Red Sea, and the Strait of Hormuz,” he concluded.

Macron: “We stand by your side”

The French president noted that the aim of France’s presence is to strengthen the island’s defense. “We want to express our determination that we stand by your side to ensure the safe protection of European citizens and their secure repatriation,” he said.

He also recalled that in recent days a number of countries have come under attack. “Our stance must remain defensive, but we must also demonstrate the credibility of our actions in order to lead to de-escalation,” he said, adding that freedom of navigation must also be ensured.

Operation “Aspida,” coordinated by Greece, is proof of this cooperation.

Macron: An attack on Cyprus is an attack on all of Europe

“An attack on Cyprus is an attack on all of Europe,” Emmanuel Macron stressed, adding that the Cyprus issue is also a matter of concern for Paris.

“Behind the text we signed lies a commitment, as well as our military presence. We want to express our full solidarity with Cyprus, which has been the target of attacks and missiles. That is why we sent the Mistral air defense system and the frigate,” he said.

Referring to the frigate Kimon, he noted that it was built in Lorient and is now deployed in Cyprus.

09/03/2026 14:48

Christodoulides: Greece, France and Cyprus send a message that Europe stands united

“Greece, France and Cyprus are sending a message that Europe stands united, determined to safeguard the security of its member states in the wider Mediterranean and the Middle East. In moments like these, unity is not just a principle or a value — it is Europe’s strength,” Nicos Christodoulides concluded.

09/03/2026 14:46

Christodoulides: France has proven to be a strong strategic partner of Cyprus

France has proven to be a strong strategic partner of Cyprus, Mr. Christodoulides said, also recalling the agreement between the two countries.

“I thank both of you for your unwavering support. I would also like to thank Giorgia Meloni and Pedro Sánchez, as well as the peoples of Italy and Spain, for their support,” he stated, adding that the four countries demonstrate what solidarity truly means, sending a meaningful message about Europe’s capabilities and the path it must follow in light of today’s geopolitical realities.

“We are going through a period of broader instability. Developments remind us that whatever happens in the Middle East has a direct impact on Europe,” he noted, explaining that it affects Europe’s collective future, as well as its security and stability.

For this reason, he said, Europe must become more actively and cohesively involved in the region, with an approach aimed at strengthening security, stability, and cooperation. The Cypriot presidency, he added, aims to promote Europe’s strategic autonomy.

“The position of the Republic of Cyprus is clear. We are not involved in military operations. We remain committed to the humanitarian role we have served throughout this period, acting responsibly as part of the solution rather than part of the problem. Our country serves as a bridge of cooperation,” he said.

“For 52 years now, our country has been paying the price of war. We are a country that is the victim of an illegal invasion. That is why every step we take is aimed at security, peace, and prosperity.”

Christodoulides: Greek F-16s and frigates reflect our shared history

Nicos Christodoulides made special reference to the deployment of Greek F-16 fighter jets and the frigate Kimon, noting that it reflects the shared history of the two countries.

Statement by Nicos Christodoulides

“With feelings of deep appreciation and pride, I welcome you to Cyprus, at the southeastern edge of Europe. Your presence, beyond its strong symbolism, carries substantial importance for Cyprus, for all of Europe, and for our common home, the European Union,” Mr. Christodoulides said, thanking them for their immediate response to his request for tangible and meaningful support, as well as for sending the clear message that the security of Cyprus also means the security of Europe.

The trilateral meeting between Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Emmanuel Macron, and Nicos Christodoulides at the “Andreas Papandreou” military base has been completed, with joint statements from the three leaders expected shortly. Mitsotakis landed shortly after 12:30, while Macron arrived a short time later. According to the schedule, Macron is expected to inspect the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle before returning to Paris, while Mitsotakis and Christodoulides will inspect the Greek F-16 fighter jets stationed at the military base in Paphos. The visit is seen as sending a strong message of the European “shield” being raised over Cyprus.

Macron to inspect the Charles de Gaulle

According to reports, Emmanuel Macron will inspect the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle before returning to Paris.

Meanwhile, following the joint statements, and according to the schedule, Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Nicos Christodoulides are expected to inspect the Greek F-16 fighter jets stationed at the military base in Paphos.

At this moment, the three leaders are visiting the Search and Rescue Coordination Center.

Outside the coordination center, operators of the Mistral anti-missile systems are lined up, and they were greeted by Mitsotakis, Christodoulides, and Macron.

09/03/2026 14:19
The trilateral meeting between Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Nicos Christodoulides, and Emmanuel Macron has been completed.

The trilateral meeting of Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Emmanuel Macron, and Nicos Christodoulides is currently underway at the “Andreas Papandreou” military base in Paphos. Joint statements from the three leaders are expected following the discussions. Mitsotakis landed shortly after 12:30, with Macron arriving a short time later. The visit is seen as a strong signal of the European “shield” being raised over Cyprus.

Joint photos before the start of the meeting
Before the meeting began, the three leaders posed for joint photographs.

It is worth noting that Emmanuel Macron removed the tie he was wearing upon arrival, following the example set by Mr. Mitsotakis and Mr. Christodoulides.

09/03/2026 13:35
What the Élysée Palace states

The discussion includes the topic of strengthening regional security amid the war in Iran and the surge in oil prices.

According to the French presidency, the visit aims to “express France’s solidarity” with Cyprus, where a British military base was targeted by a drone shortly after the start of the U.S.-Israeli strike against Iran on February 28.

This morning, the President of France also spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the situation in the Middle East and Lebanon.

Emmanuel Macron Arrives at the Airport
The French president was welcomed by the President of Cyprus. The two are heading to the meeting venue, where Kyriakos Mitsotakis is currently present.

French Aircraft Carrier Charles de Gaulle in the Mediterranean

As announced last week by Macron, the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle is now in the Mediterranean.

A French frigate also arrived in Cyprus on Thursday.

09/03/2026 13:08
Macron to Depart After Trilateral Meeting

Immediately after the trilateral meeting, Emmanuel Macron will leave Paphos.

Therefore, following the joint statements, there will be no joint visit to the frigate Kimon.

The Meeting Sends a Strong Symbolic Message on Cyprus and European Security

The three leaders, with their meeting, are expected to send a message of high symbolic value, both in support of Cyprus and for European security.

At the “Andreas Papandreou” base, where the meeting is taking place, Greek F-16s—sent to Cyprus by decision of the KYSEA—have also been deployed. According to the schedule, the three leaders will hold an extensive discussion, followed by joint statements.

The meeting of the three constitutes an important message for the European “shield” being raised in Cyprus. Greece, after all, was the first to respond to Nicosia’s request for defense support following the drone attack on the Akrotiri base. France followed, with President Emmanuel Macron announcing the deployment of the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle via a televised address. Recently, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom have also joined the alliance supporting the island.

09/03/2026 12:56
Emmanuel Macron’s aircraft lands in Cyprus

The Greek Delegation Heads to the Meeting Venue
Nikos Christodoulides remains at the reception area for Kyriakos Mitsotakis, as he awaits French President Emmanuel Macron.

09/03/2026 12:51
Nikos Christodoulides Welcomed Kyriakos Mitsotakis
Nikos Christodoulides, along with his ministers, met with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who arrived in Cyprus for the trilateral meeting.

Schedule Change: Macron’s Arrival Moved Up

The arrival of French President Emmanuel Macron will take place earlier than expected. He is anticipated to reach Cyprus within a few minutes for the trilateral meeting with Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Nikos Christodoulides.

09/03/2026 12:46
The Prime Minister Has Landed in Cyprus
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has landed in Paphos, where he is being welcomed by Nikos Christodoulides.

Within a few minutes, Emmanuel Macron is also expected at the Paphos airbase, where the trilateral meeting will commence.

The Agenda of the Meeting

In the discussion, other issues will also be addressed, such as coordination for repatriations from Gulf countries, while President Macron is particularly insistent on the issue of maritime security, putting on the table the strengthening of the ASPIDES mission in the Red Sea.

It should be noted that Kyriakos Mitsotakis plans to be in Paris tomorrow, Tuesday, to participate in the summit under President Macron on nuclear energy, which, of course, also has a critical geopolitical dimension.

09/03/2026 12:40
The meeting of the three leaders sends an important message about the European “shield” being raised in Cyprus. Greece, after all, was the first to respond to Nicosia’s request for defense support following the drone attack on the Akrotiri base. France followed, with President Macron announcing via a televised address the deployment of the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, while recently Italy, Spain, and soon the United Kingdom are expected to join the alliance supporting the island.

09/03/2026 12:39
According to the initial schedule, the press conference of the three leaders is expected to take place at 14:45.

09/03/2026 12:39
The President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, arrived on the landing strip shortly before 12:40.
He will be followed by Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who will have a brief meeting with the Cypriot president, while Emmanuel Macron is expected to arrive last, after 1:00 p.m.

09/03/2026 12:38
The meeting of the leaders of Greece, France, and Cyprus will take place at the “Andreas Papandreou” military base in Paphos.

09/03/2026 12:37
Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Emmanuel Macron are in Cyprus today for a meeting with Nikos Christodoulides.

Macron, Mitsotakis and Christodoulides to Send Strong Message of Support for Cyprus

A highly symbolic message of support for both Cyprus and European security is expected to be sent later today by Emmanuel Macron, Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Nikos Christodoulides, who will meet in Paphos.

The meeting, which has been kept under strict secrecy for obvious security reasons, will take place at the Andreas Papandreou Air Base, where Greek F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jets recently deployed to Cyprus by decision of the Greek Government Council for Foreign Affairs and Defence (KYSEA) are stationed.

According to the schedule, the three leaders will hold a full discussion, followed by joint statements.

A European “shield” for Cyprus

The meeting is expected to send an important signal regarding the emerging European “shield” around Cyprus. Greece was the first country to respond to Nicosia’s request for defence support following the drone attack on the RAF Akrotiri base.

France followed shortly afterward, with President Macron announcing in a televised address the deployment of the aircraft carrier French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle to the region. Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom are also expected to join the broader security initiative supporting Cyprus.

For Athens, Mitsotakis’ presence—reportedly confirmed on Thursday after telephone conversations with Macron and Christodoulides—carries a twofold message. On the one hand, Greece positions itself as a provider of security in the region, standing by Cyprus whenever necessary. On the other hand, the Greek mobilization that prompted wider European support effectively constituted an informal activation of Article 42(7) of the Treaty on European Union, which concerns collective defence in the event of an attack against an EU member state, even though it has not been formally invoked.

“When European territory is threatened by external dangers, our response must be immediate and strong,” Mitsotakis wrote in a social media post on Sunday.

Broader coordination

Beyond defence matters, the leaders are also expected to discuss coordination efforts for the repatriation of European citizens from Gulf countries. Macron is also pushing strongly for enhanced maritime security and is expected to propose strengthening the Operation ASPIDES mission in the Red Sea.

Mitsotakis is also expected to attend a summit on nuclear energy hosted by Macron on Tuesday, an initiative that carries significant geopolitical implications.

Greece in crisis management mode

Meanwhile, the Greek government has effectively entered a crisis management mode. Mitsotakis has emphasized that during periods of international tension it is particularly important for the country to have steady leadership.

Although crises sometimes strengthen political support for governments—as citizens often rally behind national leadership—the current developments present complex and demanding challenges.

The decision to deploy military forces to Cyprus, including the dispatch of the frigates HS Kimon (F601) and HS Psara (F454) along with two pairs of F-16 fighter jets, effectively revived elements of the joint defence doctrine agreed in 1993 between Andreas Papandreou and Glafcos Clerides, although government officials have sought to downplay the comparison publicly.

Following consultations with the Pentagon and close coordination with Defence Minister Nikos Dendias—who traveled to Nicosia last Wednesday—Mitsotakis signaled that for Athens, Cyprus remains a core strategic concern.

The Prime Minister’s broader strategy aims to underline Greece’s role as an active regional player. The swift intervention in Cyprus and subsequent consultations with neighbouring countries highlight Athens’ intention to project stability and influence across the wider region.

Economic concerns and possible measures

However, significant challenges may lie ahead, particularly on the economic front, as the duration of the military conflict remains uncertain. The longer the crisis continues, the greater the geopolitical and economic repercussions could become.

Mitsotakis has already instructed key ministries to prepare response measures. Last Thursday a coordination meeting was held at the Maximos Mansion involving Deputy Prime Minister Kostis Hatzidakis, Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou and Development Minister Takis Theodorikakos.

The Finance Ministry remains in close contact with European partners, with Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis raising the issue at the Eurogroup. Both the Eurogroup meeting and the upcoming European summit on March 19 are expected to address possible coordinated European responses to protect economies from the crisis.

Government officials are already examining a first set of measures aimed at limiting price increases and preventing profiteering in the market. Announcements could come as early as this week.

Intervention in fuel prices is considered highly likely, potentially through a mechanism capping profit margins at petrol stations. A direct subsidy scheme similar to the previous “fuel pass” program is also under discussion, though it may remain a reserve option depending on developments and possible European coordination.

Government officials stress that hundreds of inspections are already underway and insist that the Greek market will not be left unchecked.