A controversy has been sparked following an incident during the Carnival celebrations in Nafplio last Sunday, where an effigy of U.S. President Donald Trump was set on fire as part of a scheduled performance.
The act was included in the official program announced by the Municipality of Nafplio and took place in a prominent central location of the city. The Mayor of Nafplio, Dimitris Orfanos, has come under intense criticism, with many holding the municipal administration responsible for the selection and approval of the specific event.
Republicans in Greece condemn Trump effigy burning
The Greek chapter of Republicans Overseas issued a sharp response, condemning the action as a grave insult to the United States and its elected President.
In a formal announcement (attached), the organization expressed its “disgust and indignation,” characterizing the event as an “insolent provocation.” Furthermore, the Hellenic Chapter stated its intention to petition relevant U.S. authorities with a series of retaliatory measures. According to their statement, these proposals include:
- A Travel Advisory: Requesting the U.S. Department of State to designate Nafplio as an “unsafe area” for American citizens, recommending they avoid the city.
- Trade Sanctions: Petitioning the U.S. Department of Commerce to revoke tariff and tax exemptions for Greek agricultural products originating from Nafplio and the surrounding Argolis region—exemptions which the organization notes they had helped facilitate in 2020.
The statement, signed by the President of the Hellenic Chapter, Jonathan Constantine, concludes with a stern warning: “Actions have consequences.”
