Thousands protest NATO chief’s visit to Greece

Thousands of protesters in Athens, led by members of Greece’s Communist Party (KKE) and its youth branch (KNE), marched against the visit of NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

Demonstrators condemned NATO’s involvement in the Ukraine conflict and the ongoing hostilities in Gaza, accusing the Greek government of complicity in the “genocide” of Palestinians by supporting Israel.

Chants like “Greece out of war” and “Shut down US and NATO bases” echoed during the rally, as protesters demanded an end to military aid to Ukraine and Israel. The protests coincided with Rutte’s talks with Greek officials, sparking outrage over Athens’ deepening ties with NATO.

The KKE/KNE called for Greece to exit NATO, remove US bases from its soil, and redirect military funding toward education and healthcare.

Earlier, activists disrupted a convoy carrying weapons for Ukraine, reflecting widespread discontent with Athens’ military contributions, including supplying arms and training Ukrainian fighter pilots.

Protesters held concerns over escalating wars near Greece’s borders, warning against NATO’s growing militarisation. Similar sentiments were voiced during Rutte’s earlier visit to Türkiye.