Significant developments in the economy, defense, and international diplomacy
Greece continues to strengthen its economic position, as the European Stability Mechanism (ESM) and the European Financial Stability Facility (EFSF) gave the "green light" for the early repayment of debt amounting to 6.94 million euros. This decision confirms the steady progress of the Greek economy and the confidence of international institutions in the country's course.
In the field of national defense, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis described yesterday as historic, as the first day of voluntary military service for women in Greece began. The Prime Minister emphasized that military service is now a matter that concerns both genders, marking a significant social and military change.
On the international stage, tension in the Black Sea region remains high following the explosion of a sea drone in the port of Constanta, Romania. Romanian authorities reported that the drone is similar to those used in the war in Ukraine. At the same time, the Kremlin announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin was informed about the open letter sent to him by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Regarding foreign policy, Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis underlined that Greece possesses strong geopolitical capital. He clearly stated that unilateral actions that violate the law of the sea do not produce law nor create accomplished facts. In the same diplomatic context, Nikitas Kaklamanis congratulated Annita Demetriou on her re-election to the presidency of the Cypriot Parliament and invited her to officially visit Athens.
In domestic political news, a new poll by the company Prorata shows that the gap between New Democracy and ELAS has narrowed to a single-digit number (24% vs 14.5%), with PASOK occupying fourth place. Additionally, in the Greek Parliament, Konstantinos Kollias was sworn in as a new MP, taking the seat of Nikolaos Tagaras.
Finally, global food prices showed a slight decrease of 0.2% in May, although they remain near three-year highs due to increases in grains. In the transport sector, Athens International Airport recorded positive results, with passenger traffic increasing by 5.3% in the first five months of 2026, despite the challenges of the period.