Tsipras says 2016 coup attempt damaged Greek-Turkish relations

Former Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras has asserted that the July 15, 2016 coup attempt in Türkiye significantly damaged the potential for improved Greek-Turkish relations, according to revelations in his newly published memoir. The former leader contends that bilateral ties were progressing positively before the FETO terrorist organization's attempted overthrow of Türkiye's government.

Pre-Coup Diplomatic Momentum

In his book "Ithaki," documenting his 2015-2019 premiership, Tsipras maintains that Greek-Turkish relations were dominated by a constructive agenda prior to the coup attempt. The former prime minister notes he visited Türkiye three times during the seven months preceding the failed putsch, suggesting the Fourth High-Level Cooperation Council meeting in Izmir during March 2016 could have marked a significant turning point in bilateral relations had the coup not intervened. Tsipras emphasizes the promising diplomatic trajectory that was abruptly disrupted by the violent events of July 2016.

Immediate Response to Coup Attempt

Recalling he was vacationing when informed about the coup attempt, Tsipras reveals he was "one of the first world leaders to call Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and convey my support against the coup." This immediate demonstration of solidarity reflected the improving relationship between the neighboring NATO members and their leaders during that period. However, the subsequent handling of coup participants would create substantial diplomatic complications between Athens and Ankara.

Fugitive Controversy and Lasting Tensions

The memoir addresses the contentious issue of eight FETO members who hijacked a Turkish military helicopter to Greece's Alexandroupolis city on July 16, 2016. Tsipras claims Greece was obligated by international law to grant the fugitives asylum, despite President Erdogan's personal request for their extradition during their phone conversation. The former prime minister recounts telling Erdogan that "coup plotters are not welcome in Greece, but the Greek judiciary will make the final decision on their case." Tsipras acknowledges this incident created persistent diplomatic friction that strained Greek-Turkish relations for at least two subsequent years.