Greek Minister of National Defense Nikos Dendias sent a pointed message to European governments on the anniversary of the Fall of Constantinople, urging vigilance and honesty in the face of threats to Europe’s cohesion and security.
Referring to the draft SAFE regulation (Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform)—which aims to finance the European defense industry—Dendias stated:
“I would suggest renaming the SAFE regulation the ‘Kerkoporta Regulation’ if some partners attempt to implement it through schemes that bypass the requirement for unanimity in agreements with third countries.”
He issued a clear warning:
“Any interpretation by our partners that the SAFE regulation enables unconditional funding of the defense industries of those who threaten and scheme against us does not even qualify as neutrality.”
Dendias emphasized the need for a shared threat perception, saying:
“European defense cannot be a matter of experimentation. If it is to exist, it must be based on common principles and a common understanding of the threats to the European model.”
He specifically mentioned Turkey, noting that its National Assembly has yet to revoke the casus belli (cause for war), despite recent statements from the Greek Prime Minister. He reminded listeners of Turkey’s long-standing threats against Greece and stressed that European institutions must take these into account before making related decisions.
His remarks were delivered during the Palaiologia 2025 commemorative events in the historic town of Mystras, marking the May 29, 1453 Fall of Constantinople. Speaking in front of the statue of Constantine Palaiologos, Dendias reflected on the profound significance of the day, calling the Fall:
“The greatest catastrophe in our thousands of years of history.”
He added:
“This tragic anniversary for all of Christendom is an opportunity for deep reflection and relevance to the present—if, of course, Europe retains any trace of historical memory and the reflexes needed for cultural survival.”
Dendias concluded by highlighting that the key challenge of our time is the defense of the nation and the path to the future, which requires firm roots in history. He linked this year’s Palaiologia to the need for national unity and strategic vigilance, both within Greece and in shaping European decisions.
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