Greek Farmers Escalate Protests Over Subsidy Delays and Rising Costs

Since November 30, 2025, Greek farmers have intensified their protests by blocking major roads and border crossings across the country. These actions are primarily driven by rising production costs, delayed European Union (EU) subsidy payments, and a recent scandal involving fraudulent subsidy claims. Farmers are demanding immediate state aid, price guarantees, and measures to alleviate their financial burdens.

Greek farmers block borders in protest over EU subsidy scandal

Farmers have mobilized their tractors to block critical routes, including the Athens-Thessaloniki motorway and border crossings to North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Turkey. The protests have escalated, with farmers bypassing police blockades to reach strategic locations, such as the Promachonas customs office. The demonstrations have resulted in significant traffic disruptions and confrontations with law enforcement, leading to injuries among both protesters and police officers.

Euronews

The protests are rooted in a broader context of discontent within the agricultural sector, exacerbated by a scandal involving the misappropriation of EU funds. An investigation by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) revealed that approximately 324 individuals received €19.6 million in illegal subsidies, prompting the resignation of five senior government officials and the shutdown of the agency responsible for distributing these funds. Farmers are frustrated not only by the delays in payments but also by the implications of the fraud investigation on their livelihoods.

Greek farmers block borders in protest over EU subsidy scandal

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has acknowledged the farmers' grievances but cautioned against the disruptive nature of their protests. He emphasized the government's commitment to increasing financial support for farmers, projecting an increase of over €500 million in payments for 2025 compared to the previous year. Mitsotakis stated, “Extreme actions, prolonged closures of national roads... do not help their efforts,” urging farmers to consider the broader implications of their actions.

Greek Farmers Escalate Protests, Bypass Police to Block Bulgaria Border

Despite the government's assurances, farmers remain skeptical. Kostas Tzelas, a member of the national blockade committee, expressed the sentiment among protesters, stating, “The poorer we get, the more determined we become. There is no turning back.” Farmers argue that the delays in subsidy payments are unjust and that the government must take immediate action to rectify the situation.

Greek farmers block borders in protest over EU subsidy scandal

While the government has committed to substantial financial support, farmers have reported ongoing frustrations with the lack of immediate action regarding their demands. The protests are expected to continue, with further blockades planned unless the government addresses their concerns.

Greek farmers block borders in protest over EU subsidy scandal

The protests are anticipated to spread further across Greece, with farmers planning additional road blockades and demonstrations. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing discussions among protest leaders about future actions and potential negotiations with the government.

Euronews