Official commemorations of Ochi Day held in Thessaloniki

On October 28, 2026, Thessaloniki hosted major military and anniversary celebrations marking the 86th anniversary of Ochi Day and the city’s liberation. The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including Greek President Konstantinos Tasoulas and Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. A Cypriot delegation led by Defense Minister Vasilis Palmas was also present to honor the historical significance of the 1940 resistance and strengthen bilateral ties between Greece and Cyprus. A diplomatic delegation from the Municipality of Limassol, headed by Mayor Giannis Armeftis, also participated in the festivities.

The military parade featured the public debut of the "Achilles Shield," a multi-layered air defense system designed to counter drone threats and enhance national security as part of the "Agenda 2030" modernization program. Other displays included advanced smart drones and domestic weaponry. The parade, held on Megalou Alexandrou Avenue, saw the participation of the Greek Armed Forces, supported by the presence of the frigate FDI "Kimon" docked in the city since October 25. Minister Palmas and his Greek counterpart, Nikos Dendias, held a private meeting on the sidelines to discuss international security developments and ongoing defense cooperation between the two nations.