Greece Faces Pressure to Transfer Mirage Jets to Ukraine

NATO allies, particularly the United States and France, are exerting pressure on Greece to consider transferring part of its fleet of 25 Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets to Ukraine. This initiative is part of the "Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List" (PURL), aimed at bolstering Ukraine's defense capabilities amid ongoing conflict with Russia. Diplomatic sources indicate that the U.S. and Eastern European nations are particularly vocal in their requests, emphasizing the urgency of the situation in Ukraine.

Mirage for the Armed Forces of Ukraine: Greece blocks the transfer of fighters to UkraineNATO Allies Pressure Greece to Transfer Mirage Jets to Ukraine – MediaEuromaiden PressGreece to transfer M110A2 self-propelled howitzers to UkraineGreece plans to transfer a package of heavy weapons and ammunition worth 199 million euros to Ukraine

Despite the mounting pressure, the Greek government remains hesitant to transfer its modern Mirage jets. Athens is reportedly concerned about the implications of its advanced military technology being used in direct confrontation with Russia. Instead, Greece is focusing on providing older military equipment, such as the M110A2 self-propelled howitzers, which have been in service since the 1960s. The Greek Ministry of National Defense is preparing a defense package for Ukraine, valued at over 199 million euros, which includes 60 M110A2 howitzers and tens of thousands of rounds of ammunition. This package is set to be delivered through the Czech Republic.

Greece plans to transfer a package of heavy weapons and ammunition worth 199 million euros to UkraineGreece to transfer M110A2 self-propelled howitzers to UkraineMirage for the Armed Forces of Ukraine: Greece blocks the transfer of fighters to UkraineNATO Allies Pressure Greece to Transfer Mirage Jets to Ukraine – MediaEuromaiden Press

Greece has previously supplied Ukraine with various military resources, including armored vehicles and missiles, and has participated in F-16 pilot training. However, it has declined requests for more advanced systems like the Patriot or S-300 air defense systems. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has articulated that any peace process must begin with a ceasefire and that Ukraine's territorial integrity must be preserved.

NATO Allies Pressure Greece to Transfer Mirage Jets to Ukraine – Media

Critics argue that Greece's reluctance to provide modern aircraft undermines NATO's collective efforts to support Ukraine. While Greece is willing to offer outdated military equipment, the demand for advanced fighter jets remains high among Ukraine's allies. The pressure on Greece is seen as part of a broader strategy to enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities, which includes the potential acquisition of American F-16s and other advanced aircraft from various nations.

Mirage for the Armed Forces of Ukraine: Greece blocks the transfer of fighters to UkraineNATO Allies Pressure Greece to Transfer Mirage Jets to Ukraine – MediaEuromaiden PressGreece to transfer M110A2 self-propelled howitzers to UkraineGreece plans to transfer a package of heavy weapons and ammunition worth 199 million euros to Ukraine

The Greek government has maintained that its military exports will not compromise its national defense capabilities, as funding for modernization is in place. Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis emphasized that Greece will not send troops to Ukraine under any future European security guarantees. The final decision regarding the transfer of military aid will be made by the Government Council for National Security (KYSEA), chaired by the Prime Minister.

NATO Allies Pressure Greece to Transfer Mirage Jets to Ukraine – Media

• “If Greece decides to move forward, it would sell the Mirage 2000-5 jets to intermediaries such as the U.S., France, Germany, as well as Czechia and Estonia. Estonia, one of Ukraine’s staunchest supporters, has shown particular interest in acquiring some of these fighters. The intermediaries would then resell them to Ukraine or provide Kyiv with other aircraft,” — Kathimerini

NATO Allies Pressure Greece to Transfer Mirage Jets to Ukraine – Media

• “The military leadership assures that the export will not harm the country's defense capability, as funding for weapons modernization is provided.” — Greek Ministry of National Defense

Greece plans to transfer a package of heavy weapons and ammunition worth 199 million euros to Ukraine

As Greece navigates the pressures from NATO allies and its own defense priorities, the outcome of the discussions regarding the Mirage jets and the upcoming military aid package will be closely monitored. The Greek government is expected to finalize its decisions in the coming weeks, balancing international expectations with national security considerations.

Euromaiden Press