Ukraine apologises to Greece over sea drone incident near Lefkada
Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi has apologised to Greece over an incident involving a sea drone that was discovered in Greek territorial waters near the island of Lefkada in the Ionian Sea in May.
Source: Tykhyi on X (Twitter)
Details: Tykhyi stressed that the appearance of the drone had been the result of circumstances caused by Russia's aggression against Ukraine.
Quote: "As current challenges to international and regional security, particularly maritime security and the activities of Russia's 'shadow fleet' constitute a shared concern of both Greece and Ukraine, Ukraine emphasises its commitment to the norms of international law and the principles of civilian maritime safety, noting its interest in preventing similar occurrences in the future."
Details: Tykhyi said the incident had demonstrated that Russia's war poses a threat not only to Ukraine, but also to "neighbouring friendly states, Europe and the world at large".
He added that Kyiv highly values its friendly relations with Athens and is grateful to the Greek people for their support since the first days of the full-scale invasion.
"Ukraine remains committed, along with Greece, to further deepening friendly relations between our two countries and developing a constructive dialogue in all areas of mutual interest," Tykhyi stressed.
Background:
- The uncrewed surface vessel – identified by Greek media as a Kozak Mamai model – was discovered by fishermen near the island of Lefkada after apparently suffering a remote-control malfunction. Reports said it was carrying 100 kg of explosives. Greek officials suspect it was intended to strike a vessel belonging to Russia's shadow fleet operating in the Mediterranean.
- Athens warned that it would not allow the Mediterranean Sea to become a theatre of military operations. In May, Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias said that "Ukraine owes us a very large apology".
- Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said there is no evidence that the vessel was linked to Ukrainian operators.
- On 3 June, Greece lodged an official diplomatic protest with Ukraine over the sea drone found off the coast of Lefkada.
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