With sharp criticism directed at the government, Antonis Samaras sent a message on the occasion of the 107th anniversary of the Pontian genocide, emphasizing that history “is a persistent teacher” and “historical memory is the foundation of the existence of the Greek people“.
Regarding the withdrawal of Patriot missiles from Karpathos, the former prime minister argues that “the government’s decision raises major questions“, emphasizing that especially now “when Turkey threatens us brazenly with yet another illegal casus belli“. At the same time, Mr. Samaras calls on the government to immediately request an emergency EU summit regarding the “incredible Turkish threats“. “We cannot remain inactive when Turkey is executing plans spanning decades. Let’s wake up, finally“, he declares characteristically.
It should be noted, however, that government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis clarified today speaking on SKAI that the withdrawal of Patriots from Karpathos was an “operational decision” recommended by the Ministry of Defense, adding that “anyone who talks about appeasement is out of place and time“. Earlier, it was also announced that a pair of Mirage 2000-5 aircraft from the Air Force will be redeployed to Karpathos to replace the Patriot missiles, while the F-16s in Cyprus will be replaced by other F-16s, as part of the renewal of Greek military aircraft presence on the territory of the Republic of Cyprus to strengthen Cyprus’s air defense.
Full statement by Antonis Samaras
“May 19th, the day of remembrance for the genocide of Pontian Hellenism by the Turks, is etched in the turbulent journey of our nation. History is a persistent teacher. And historical memory is the foundation of the existence and future of the Greek people.
Much more so in difficult periods and in times of revisionism. That is why the government’s decision to withdraw our weapons systems from Karpathos, Didymoteicho but also Cyprus raises major questions.
Much more so at a time when Turkey threatens us brazenly with yet another illegal casus belli, essentially regarding our sovereign rights! The government must immediately request an emergency EU summit regarding the incredible Turkish threats. We cannot remain inactive when Turkey is executing plans spanning decades. Let’s wake up, finally”
