As we follow the latest developments in Greek-Turkish relations, we observe that the Turks

They are preparing for the research vessel “Yunuz” to set sail for the Aegean in the near future, so a ‘hot’ summer is expected on the potential Greek continental shelf—EEZ
They began to exert pressure through migration flows, resorting once again to the familiar tactic of using migration as a tool
They are stepping up their diplomatic efforts to demilitarize the islands, culminating in their latest letter to the UN, in which they state that they are revoking their recognition of Greek sovereignty over the islands unless Greece demilitarizes them

It should be noted that prior to these developments—and, albeit recently, some time ago—they proceeded to conclude the Turkish-Libyan memorandum, relying on the arbitrary and unlawful claim—in violation of the Law of the Sea— claim that the islands have no continental shelf, have contested sovereign rights over the Greek continental shelf-EEZ and have put forward the theory of “gray zones” in the Aegean, disputing an unspecified number of islets and rocky islets

Consequently, it is obvious that the Sultan of the neighboring country is asking us to sit down at the negotiating table to discuss how Turkey’s claims against us will be implemented, which, broadly speaking, are as follows:

We’re dividing up the Aegean Sea based on the median line theory, since the islands don’t have a continental shelf—in short, the Turks will get half the Aegean.
We are reviewing the Treaties of Lausanne and Paris and discussing the sovereignty of the Aegean islands, since Greece has militarized them and violated the treaties
We are discussing the gray zones of the Aegean Sea, which include an unspecified number of islets and rocky islets
We support the proposal for a two-state solution in Cyprus
We are discussing this among ourselves as good neighbors, without involving NATO, the EU, or our other allies
We waive our right to invoke the Law of the Sea and the rights it grants us
We do not denounce Turkey’s revisionist stance in international forums, nor do we use the Greek diaspora
We are disarming our islands so that our neighbors do not feel threatened

All of this can be summarized in the following conclusion: Turkey has decided to become a new kind of Ottoman Empire, and the main obstacle to this goal is Hellenism.

Consequently, she is waiting for the right moment to seize the opportunity to launch an offensive attack, which will allow her to carry out her plans

This opportunity will never arise if we Greeks— the people, political leaders, and military leadership, are determined, prepared, and united to oppose Turkish expansionism with all our might.

With this line of thinking, there is no room for dilemmas, phobias, or hesitations.

This particular stance—which is, of course, a response to a Turkish provocation—must be made known to friends, enemies, and allies alike so that they are aware of what will follow.

Because we have highly capable Armed Forces and weapons systems that can respond effectively.

And let everyone take responsibility!

Lieutenant General (Ret.)
Nikolaos Manolakos
Honorary Commander ASDEN
New Democracy Member of Parliament for the 1st District of Piraeus and the Islands