US Secretary of State Marco Rubio addresses Greece-Turkey relations and regional energy projects

In a recent interview with the Greek newspaper Kathimerini, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared that any potential conflict between Greece and Turkey is unthinkable. He emphasized that the United States is prepared to use its diplomatic influence behind the scenes to prevent crises and ensure regional stability, specifically regarding the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI) project linking Greece, Cyprus, and Israel. Rubio highlighted the strategic importance of energy diversification, especially following instability in Ukraine and the Red Sea region, and urged all parties to resolve existing project obstacles through quiet diplomacy rather than public discourse.

Regarding military procurement, Rubio addressed Turkey’s interest in acquiring U.S. F-35 fighter jets. He confirmed that while President Donald Trump supports fulfilling these aircraft orders, U.S. legislation strictly prohibits the transfer as long as the dispute over Turkey’s possession of Russian-made S-400 missile systems remains unresolved. This stance underscores the ongoing legal and security preconditions for U.S.-Turkey defense cooperation. The Secretary's comments have been welcomed in Cyprus, where officials view his support for the GSI project as a significant affirmation of the strategic role played by Greece and Cyprus in the Eastern Mediterranean.