Greece stations troops on Ro islet 1.8 km from Turkish coast
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Greece has deployed a military unit to the Ro islet, 1.8 km off Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, and inaugurated two barracks for the soldiers on Saturday. Greek General Dimitrios Choupis presided over the opening ceremony, but officials did not disclose how many personnel will be based there.
Troop Deployment
Greece has stationed military personnel on the Ro islet, also known as Karaada, just 1.8 kilometers (1.1 miles) from the Turkish district of Kaş in Antalya province. The uninhabited rocky islet falls under the demilitarized status of the adjacent Meis (Kızılhisarlı) island according to international treaties. The deployment was marked by an opening ceremony for two new lodgings donated by the Tsouvelekakis family, held Saturday and attended by Greek military and civilian officials. The commander of Greece’s National Defence General Staff, General Dimitrios Choupis, presided over the event. The number of troops assigned to the islet was not announced.
Infrastructure Buildup
Greece began opening the islet for development two years ago, first constructing a ferry dock. On July 18, 2024, Athens launched maritime tours to the islet, celebrating the start of regular services. The construction of housing for military personnel marks a further step in consolidating Greece’s presence on the islet, which is claimed by Turkey as part of its continental shelf. The area remains a flashpoint in bilateral relations.
What's Next
Turkey is expected to formally protest the deployment, citing violations of the Lausanne Treaty and the demilitarized status of the Aegean islands. It remains unclear whether Athens will provide details on the size and armament of the unit stationed on the islet.
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Greece stations troops on Ro islet 1.8 km from Turkish coast
