A drone packed with explosives near a Greek island has triggered diplomatic friction and raised fears about a widening conflict zone. Quiet talks reveal deeper disagreements.

Ukraine told Greece that it will continue to attack Russian vessels on the high seas, citing its right to self-defense under the UN Charter. This was reported by diplomatic sources in Athens.

The situation sparked controversy after a Ukrainian naval drone carrying 100 kilograms of explosives was discovered near the Greek island of Lefkada in the Ionian Sea. According to diplomats, the device had been directed at a Russian tanker in the Mediterranean Sea based on intelligence obtained by Kyiv.

The incident returned to the spotlight after Russian pranksters Vovan and Lexus contacted Greece’s National Security Advisor, Thanos Dokos. This triggered a sharp reaction from Athens, which demanded apologies and guarantees from Kyiv that similar incidents would not be repeated, particularly due to concerns about the Mediterranean becoming a conflict zone and the potential impact on the tourism industry.

Former Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk commented on the situation, emphasizing that the claims should not be directed at Kyiv.

Greeks should seek an apology from Russia and Putin, not Ukraine

– Arseniy Yatsenyuk

In response to the incident, Greece sent three diplomatic démarches to Ukraine. Officially, Kyiv apologized, emphasizing that the event was a consequence of Russian aggression.

At the same time, in unofficial contacts, the Ukrainian side made it clear that it does not plan to abandon strikes on Russian vessels in the Mediterranean. During in-person meetings following the May 7 incident, Ukrainian diplomats stated that such actions are viewed as an exercise of the right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter.

Kyiv also reminded of the 1996 Treaty of Friendship between Ukraine and Greece, which provides for consultations in such situations.

Should a situation arise that could pose a threat to, or jeopardise, international peace and order, the Parties shall enter into immediate consultations in order to assess the situation

– Treaty of Friendship between Ukraine and Greece

The Ukrainian side believes that Athens did not adhere to this provision, as the issue gained wide publicity in Greek media before any consultations with Kyiv took place.

The foreign ministries of Greece and Ukraine have not publicly commented on the situation. Meanwhile, diplomatic contacts between the sides continue amid growing tensions over security in the Mediterranean region.