Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected in Greece on Sunday, November 16, for a fast-paced, same-day working visit that includes a series of high level political meetings, Greek media report. Although the schedule remains flexible due to security considerations, his arrival is anticipated around midday.
Zelensky’s first stop will be the Presidential Mansion, where he will meet with the President of the Hellenic Republic, Konstantinos Tassoulas. The discussion is expected to focus on the ongoing war in Ukraine, regional stability, and bilateral cooperation between Athens and Kyiv.
Zelensky’s meetings with Greece’s government
Following that, Zelensky will head to the Maximos Mansion for talks with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The two leaders have maintained regular contact over the past two years, particularly as Greece has supported Ukraine on political, humanitarian, and defense-related fronts. Their agenda is likely to cover security developments, European support mechanisms, and Greece’s role in broader regional diplomacy.
Later in the day, the Ukrainian president is also scheduled to meet with Nikitas Kaklamanis, the Speaker of the Hellenic Parliament. This meeting highlights the parliamentary dimension of Greece–Ukraine relations, including legislative cooperation and international coordination on Ukraine-related resolutions.
A return visit amid heightened tensions
This marks Zelensky’s second trip to Athens, following his August 2023 visit for a leaders’ dinner with EU and Western Balkan officials at the invitation of Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The Greek prime minister has also traveled to Ukraine multiple times—in Odessa in March 2024, and again in June for the 4th Ukraine–Southeast Europe Summit hosted by Zelensky.
Zelensky’s new visit comes at a critical moment in the war. Russian forces continue to exert pressure in the Donetsk region, attempting to gain control of strategically important areas. The timing underscores the need for intensified diplomatic engagement and sustained international support as the conflict enters a challenging phase.
Strategic importance for both sides
For Greece, the visit reinforces its commitment to European security and its alignment with EU partners on Ukraine.
For Kyiv, maintaining strong ties with EU member states is vital as it navigates a volatile military and geopolitical landscape.
The meetings in Athens are expected to send a clear signal of continued collaboration at a moment when developments on the battlefield remain uncertain.
