On November 16, 2025, Athens played host to a meeting that underscored the deepening relationship between Greece and Ukraine, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived for an official working visit and met with Konstantinos Tasoulas, President of the Greek Parliament. The encounter was steeped in symbolism and substance, reflecting not only the immediate concerns of both nations but also their shared commitment to broader European values and international law.
Upon President Zelensky’s arrival, the Greek side wasted no time in reaffirming its stance. According to reporting from Greek national sources, President Tasoulas greeted Zelensky by highlighting Greece’s unwavering support for Ukraine in its fight to defend national integrity and independence. "Our aid over these past four years has expanded on all levels: economic, political, energy, and humanitarian," Tasoulas stated, capturing the breadth of Greek involvement since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine.
This support, Tasoulas emphasized, is not arbitrary. Rather, it is rooted in Greece’s steadfast adherence to the United Nations Charter and international law—principles that, as he noted pointedly, "were brutally violated in the case of the Russian invasion." The Greek Parliament’s session, which took place in both the European Parliament in Strasbourg and in Athens, further highlighted the international dimension of Greece’s engagement. The symbolism was clear: Greece stands with Ukraine not only as a fellow nation, but as a member of the broader European community.
The meeting was also an opportunity for the Greek side to draw historical parallels and underline the moral imperatives guiding its foreign policy. Tasoulas referenced the long-standing occupation of Cyprus, stating, "Cyprus has been under occupation for decades, and this very case dictates our stance toward your country." By invoking Cyprus, Tasoulas connected the Greek experience of territorial dispute and occupation with Ukraine’s current struggle, suggesting a shared understanding of the costs of unresolved conflicts and external aggression.
Another key topic on the agenda was Ukraine’s European trajectory. Tasoulas reiterated Greece’s support for Ukraine’s path toward European Union membership, stressing that the country’s future lies within a united Europe. This endorsement is not merely rhetorical; it signals Greece’s intention to be an active advocate for Ukraine’s integration into European structures, a move that carries both symbolic and practical weight in the current geopolitical climate.
For President Zelensky, the visit was more than a diplomatic courtesy—it was a chance to express gratitude and to seek further cooperation as Ukraine braces for another challenging winter. "I thank Greece and the Greek people for their steady support over the past four years," Zelensky said, his words echoing throughout the halls of the Greek Parliament. The appreciation was more than perfunctory; it reflected the tangible assistance Greece has provided, particularly in the energy sector, which has become a lifeline for Ukraine as it faces mounting energy challenges due to the ongoing war.
Energy, in fact, loomed large in the discussions. Zelensky did not shy away from addressing the difficulties ahead, stating that Ukraine will face "serious energy difficulties" in the coming winter. The war has taken a heavy toll on Ukraine’s infrastructure, and energy shortages have become a persistent threat. In this context, Greece’s support—ranging from fuel supplies to technical assistance—has been crucial. Zelensky was careful to underscore this point, noting his "special appreciation for Greece’s help" in the energy sector.
But the talks did not stop at energy. Zelensky indicated that the issue of Ukrainian hostages would also be raised during his meetings in Athens. This remark, while brief, alluded to the broader humanitarian crisis spawned by the conflict and the urgent need for international solidarity in addressing such challenges. Greece’s involvement in humanitarian aid has been one of the pillars of its support, and the expectation is that this cooperation will deepen as the war drags on.
Throughout the visit, the mood was one of mutual respect and shared purpose. The Greek side was keen to emphasize the strong bonds between the two countries, forged not only by immediate necessity but by a common vision for a stable, democratic, and integrated Europe. "The stance we have taken is dictated by our commitment to the United Nations Charter and our dedication to international law," Tasoulas reiterated, making it clear that Greece sees its support for Ukraine as part of a broader defense of international norms.
The significance of the visit was not lost on observers. With the conflict in Ukraine showing little sign of abating and Europe facing a winter of uncertainty, Greece’s public reaffirmation of support sent a clear message to both allies and adversaries alike. For Ukraine, the backing of a fellow European nation—particularly one with its own history of occupation and division—offers not only material assistance but also a measure of moral encouragement.
It’s worth noting that the relationship between Greece and Ukraine has evolved considerably over the past four years. What began as expressions of solidarity in the early days of the war has blossomed into a multifaceted partnership encompassing economic aid, political advocacy, energy collaboration, and humanitarian relief. The ongoing dialogue between Athens and Kyiv is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of diplomatic ties in times of crisis.
As the day’s meetings concluded, both sides appeared intent on building upon the progress made. Zelensky’s visit, far from being a mere formality, served as a reminder of the stakes involved—not only for Ukraine, but for the entire European project. The discussions held in Athens will likely shape the contours of Greek-Ukrainian cooperation in the months ahead, particularly as Ukraine continues its push for EU membership and as both nations confront the myriad challenges posed by a volatile international environment.
For now, the message from Athens is clear: Greece stands with Ukraine, in word and deed, and is prepared to continue its support across all sectors. As winter approaches and the pressures of war intensify, such alliances will be more important than ever. The story of Greece and Ukraine, forged in the crucible of crisis, is still being written—but its latest chapter, penned in the halls of the Greek Parliament, speaks to the enduring power of solidarity and the hope for a more secure and united Europe.