Ukraine has apologized to Greece over an incident involving a sea drone found near the island of Lefkada in the Ionian Sea. The Foreign Ministry said the situation was a consequence of Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine.
The statement was made by Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi.
According to Tykhyi, Ukraine highly values the support provided by Greece and the Greek people since the first days of Russia’s full-scale invasion and remains committed to strengthening friendly relations between the two countries.
The Foreign Ministry said Ukraine shares Greece’s concerns regarding challenges to international and regional security, particularly maritime security and the activities of Russia’s “shadow fleet,” and reaffirmed its commitment to international law and the safety of civilian navigation.
“In this respect, the Ukrainian side expresses its apologies for the incident, stressing that it was the result of circumstances brought about by the ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine,” Tykhyi said.
Kyiv also emphasized that the incident demonstrates how Russia’s war poses a threat not only to Ukraine but also to friendly countries, Europe, and the wider world.
Earlier, Greece officially confirmed that it had submitted two diplomatic protest notes to Ukraine over the activities of the Cossack Mamai unmanned surface vehicle near the island of Lefkada. Athens said the incident posed risks to maritime traffic, the economy, and national security.
Greek officials also argued that the drone’s presence effectively transferred military activity into the Mediterranean region, far from the actual combat zone. In addition, Athens said the drone’s presence in Greek territorial waters could have endangered maritime traffic and potentially caused casualties or environmental damage.
At the same time, Ukraine reiterated its commitment to maintaining constructive dialogue with Greece and further developing cooperation in all areas of mutual interest.
