Greece calls for stronger EU mutual defense mechanism in case of member state attack
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has called for a legal update to strengthen the European Union’s collective defense mechanism, urging that member states provide more effective assistance if any EU country comes under attack.
Speaking to the press during an informal EU leaders’ summit in Cyprus, Mitsotakis emphasized the need to activate and modernize existing provisions within the European Union framework.
Push to Activate EU Mutual Defense Clause
Mitsotakis specifically referred to Article 42(7) of the EU Treaty, which obliges member states to aid any fellow member subjected to armed aggression.
“I have long argued that Article 42(7) must be updated and effectively activated,” he said, underscoring that the clause should function as a credible and operational security guarantee.
Reference to Regional Tensions
The Greek leader pointed to recent geopolitical tensions involving the Middle East, stating that European solidarity had already been demonstrated in practice.
“Greece and several other European countries stood by Cyprus when it faced threats in the context of tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran,” Mitsotakis noted, arguing that Europe has shown it can act independently in support of its members.
Economic Concerns Also on Agenda
Beyond security, Mitsotakis highlighted the economic implications of instability in the Gulf region, noting that ongoing uncertainty is contributing to rising living costs in Greece.
The discussions at the summit are expected to address both defense cooperation and economic resilience as the EU navigates an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape.
