France is stepping up pressure on Greece to supply Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets to Ukraine, as Western allies seek to bolster Kyiv’s air capabilities, but Athens remains reluctant, citing political, financial and regional security concerns.
The issue has gained prominence in intensified defense contacts between the two countries, with Paris positioning itself as a leading provider of military support and intelligence to Ukraine. Greece has already contributed air defense systems, including Crotale missiles and munitions, but has stopped short of committing to aircraft transfers.
French officials have предложed incentives to ease Greek resistance, including the prospect of additional Rafale fighter jets at more favorable terms. While Athens insists any deal would require compensation, earlier hesitation from France on this point appears to be softening.
Greek reluctance is driven less by operational constraints than by domestic and geopolitical considerations. The government is balancing commitments across multiple fronts, including financial obligations tied to a US-backed fund supporting arms deliveries to Ukraine.
At the same time, Athens and Paris are coordinating on security developments in the Persian Gulf following the recent escalation involving the United States, Israel and Iran. France has floated the idea of a naval mission to escort commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a proposal Greece initially rejected publicly but continues to assess in ongoing discussions.
Officials from both countries indicate that any such maritime operation would likely proceed only after hostilities subside, with Gulf states expected to play a key role given their dependence on secure trade routes.
Meanwhile, a bilateral defense agreement signed between Greece and France in 2021 is expected to be renewed in the coming weeks without significant changes.
Despite continued talks, no final decision has been made on the potential transfer of Mirage jets, leaving the issue unresolved as allies push for greater military support to Ukraine.