Greek authorities are “certain” that the unmanned sea drone discovered off the coast of Lefkada last week was of Ukrainian origin, according to Defence Minister Nikos Dendias.
Dendias warned against the expansion of the war into the Mediterranean, echoing remarks made earlier by Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.
“The presence of this USV, the sea drone, affects the liberty and security of shipping. It is an extremely serious issue,” Dendias said.
The vessel, identified as a Ukrainian-made Mamai-type unmanned surface vehicle (USV), also known commercially as the “Cossack Mamai,” was reportedly designed for kamikaze-style operations.
Investigators say the drone is capable of carrying a substantial explosive payload and can reach speeds of up to 110 km/h.
Greek defence officials made it clear that once the technical evaluation is completed, the findings will be handed over to the Coast Guard and then forwarded to judicial authorities.
Officials also responded to criticism from opposition parties over the authorities’ failure to locate the vessel before fishermen discovered it, arguing that detecting such a small craft would have been extremely difficult.
They further noted that the Greek Navy maintains a limited presence in the Ionian Sea, with most naval resources concentrated in the Aegean due to longstanding tensions with Türkiye.
The incident could complicate relations between Athens and Kyiv.
Greece has supported Ukraine since the start of Russia’s invasion, providing political backing, financial assistance and military equipment through third parties, based on its support for the principle of territorial integrity.
Despite the episode, EU officials reportedly remain focused on ensuring continued support for Ukraine in the months ahead.
By Bakhtiyar Abbasov