The Greek government has formally protested to Ukraine following the discovery of an explosive-laden marine drone off the coast of Lefkada, which Athens attributes to Ukrainian forces.
According to Greek Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lana Zohiu, Foreign Minister Georgios Gerapatritis informed European diplomatic chief Kaia Kalas of the intention to lodge the protest, citing findings from a report by the National Defense General Staff.
Investigations by Greek authorities confirmed that the drone was indeed Ukrainian and had operated on its behalf. Gerapatritis also communicated this information to his Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha, who was invited to attend an informal meeting of EU foreign ministers in Limassol on May 27.
Reports indicate that the drone was part of a broader operation involving similar systems aimed at targeting vessels associated with Russian interests. Athens has made it clear to Kyiv that it is aware of this operational plan, emphasizing the need for Ukraine to acknowledge the mistake and withdraw any remaining combat drones from the Mediterranean.
The marine drone, reportedly a model known as “Kozak Mamai,” was discovered by fishermen near Lefkada after it appeared to malfunction. It was carrying approximately 100 kilograms of explosives, and Greek officials suspect its intended target was a ship linked to a so-called Russian “shadow fleet” operating in the Mediterranean.
Greek authorities have reiterated their commitment to preventing the Mediterranean from becoming a theater of military operations. In May, Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias stated that “Ukraine owes us a significant apology.”
The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has responded by stating that there is no evidence linking the drone to Ukrainian operators.
Greece has lodged a formal protest with Ukraine over a marine drone found near Lefkada, which Greek authorities claim was operated by Ukraine. Investigations suggest the drone was part of a broader operation targeting Russian interests in the Mediterranean.
Source: Kathimerini