The fact that some of the units of the Turkish Navy are moving towards their bases in the last hours is considered an indication of de-escalation by Greek military sources.

The same sources note that the situation so far is being assessed, however the Greek Armed Forces continue to be vigilant.

Also read: Greece and Cyprus respond to Turkey with a joining NAVTEX

As already known, the new escalation in the relations between Greece and Turkey started on Tuesday at noon, July 21, 2020, when Ankara issued a Navtex for seismic surveys by the ships Oruc Reis, accompanied by the frigates Ataman and Cengiz Han.

The area, pledged from July 21st to August 2nd, is located off Kastelorizo, within the Greek continental shelf, which, however, is not recognized by Ankara.

The location of the ORUC REIS in the circle. Source: Marinetraffic

Meanwhile, on Saturday afternoon, Recep Tayyip Erdogan assured that Ankara has no plans for other countries’ territories or natural resources, but it warned that it will not allow others to interfere in Turkish interests. Furthermore, in the same provocative message he stressed: “come to the field and pay a price or start negotiations”.

“We call on Turkey to immediately end its illegal actions that violate our sovereign rights and undermine peace and security in the region,” the Greek Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday night, clarifying his intentions.

Also read: Turkish NAVTEX | The Greek Forces are on full alert

On his part, Mr. Mitsotakis had a series of consultations and telephone conversations with, among others, Messrs. Dendia (Foreign Minister) and Panagiotopoulos (Minister of Foreign Affairs), as well as with the Chancellor of Germany, Angela Merkel, and the President of Cyprus, Nikos Anastasiadis.

With information from CNA, TA NEA