US has not met its commitments, says Greek defense minister

'The European Union also needs to understand that defense cannot be lumped together with all the other issues,' says Nikos Dendias. 'When the EU itself is looking for the creation of a defense arm, it cannot "penalize" the very extraordinary expenditures it says are needed.' [Vangelis Zavos]

Washington has not met all of the commitments outlined in a letter sent by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mistotakis at the start of the year, Defense Minister Nikos Dendias tells Kathimerini, adding that strengthening Greece's capabilities, so that it can "exercise its role as the reliable, stable and serious ally in the broader region," is also in America's best interest.

Dendias says that Athens is also exploring a "new philosophy" in its armaments programs with a more comprehensive approach that includes installing missile systems on the islands to bolster defense capabilities.

On the political front, Dendias clarifies that he has no intention of running for the Greek presidency in 2025, saying that the office should be held by a figure who enjoys "broad political and social support."

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