Kyiv, Ukraine – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to visit the Greek capital, Athens, this November. He will hold talks focusing on energy security and military aid, Greek officials announced on Thursday.
Local media reported that diplomatic teams from both countries are currently coordinating the visit. This visit comes as Kyiv seeks to secure vital fuel supplies in preparation for winter, following damage to its energy infrastructure caused by recent Russian airstrikes.
The anticipated visit coincides with the high-level Transatlantic Energy Conference in Athens this week. The conference focused on Europe’s shift away from Russian gas, amid growing efforts to diversify the continent’s energy sources.
Energy is the focus of the discussions.
Energy cooperation is expected to be a key focus of Zelensky’s talks in Greece. Athens and Washington are working together to bolster Greece’s position as a major gateway for US liquefied natural gas to Europe.
The plan, known as the “vertical corridor,” involves transporting supplies via pipelines from the Alexandroupolis terminal in northern Greece. It extends through Bulgaria, Romania, and Moldova, reaching Ukraine.
Ukrainian officials believe that American liquefied natural gas (LNG) arriving via Greece could be a key option, helping to offset the shortfall in domestic energy supplies.
Military aid and reconstruction
Zelensky is also expected to discuss increased military support from Athens during his visit. This comes as Kyiv continues its efforts to acquire advanced air defense systems.
Media reports indicate that NATO allies have encouraged Greece to consider transferring some of its Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets to Ukraine to bolster its air capabilities.
The talks are also expected to address the role of Greek companies in post-war reconstruction in Ukraine. These discussions precede the “Rebuilding Ukraine” summit scheduled to take place in Warsaw in the coming weeks.
