Turkey has criticized a European Commission map backing Greece’s maritime claims, calling it an infringement on its territorial rights in the Eastern Mediterranean. The map mirrors the “Seville Map,” which gives Greek islands, including Kastellorizo, more influence, a move Turkey sees as obstructing its access to the Mediterranean.
In response, Turkey conducted military exercises near Rhodes and Cyprus, with violations of Greece’s and Cyprus’ airspace, leading to increased tensions. These operations, named “Kaplan Pencesi 2024,” escalated confrontations between the countries.
Nationalists, led by Devlet Bahceli, accused the EU of siding with Greece, warning of severe consequences for any challenge to Turkey’s maritime interests. Bahceli invoked Turkey’s historical victories to emphasize the nation’s determination to defend its waters.
The dispute highlights growing tension between NATO allies and complicates EU-Turkey relations, with the EU caught between supporting Greece and maintaining dialogue with Turkey over maritime rights.