Is there a US military base in Alexandroupolis, Greece? Get the facts on the US presence, the MDCA agreement, and Turkey’s concerns. Discover the truth about this strategic port and its role in European security.
Athens, Greece – Recent reports have stirred debate about the presence of a US military base in Alexandroupolis, Greece. Amidst claims of a US withdrawal due to shifting geopolitical strategies and pressure from Russia and Turkey, it’s crucial to dissect the facts.
This article clarifies the situation, offering an in-depth look at the US presence in Alexandroupolis and its strategic importance.
Alexandroupolis Port: A Key Logistics Hub
The port of Alexandroupolis has emerged as a vital hub for the United States and NATO military.
It facilitates the disembarkation of troops and the transfer of military equipment, which are then forwarded to Central, Northern, and Eastern Europe.
Highlighting its importance, the US Navy funded the removal of the shipwreck “Olga” from the harbor, clearing the way for larger vessels to dock.
No Permanent US Military Base
Despite its significance as a logistics hub, there is no official US military base in Alexandroupolis.
In an interview with Kathimerini (February 29, 2020), Konstantinos Chatzimichail, President of the Alexandroupoli Port Authority, categorically denied the establishment of a U.S. military base in the port or the surrounding area. He clarified that the facilities are rented to the U.S. as they are to other clients.
The US-Greece Mutual Defense Cooperation Agreement (MDCA)
The legal framework governing the US military presence in Greece is defined by Greek Law 4932/2022 (Government Gazette 95/A/13-5-2022), which ratified the Second Protocol of Amendment to the Mutual Defense Cooperation Agreement (MDCA) between Greece and the United States.
This agreement allows the US to maintain and operate military and support facilities at specific locations, including: Military Camp Georgoula in Volos, The Litohoro Firing Range, Military Camp Yannouli (Military Camp Giannouli) in Alexandroupolis and The Souda Bay Naval Base.
Under the MDCA, the Implementing Arrangement (IA) signed in November 2021 outlines procedures for constructing, improving, and maintaining infrastructure available for use by the US Armed Forces.
Camp Yannouli: Where US Personnel Reside
While there isn’t a dedicated US base, US logistics personnel (as Military Sealift Command -MSC) reside at Camp Yannouli, twenty kilometers from the Greek-Turkish border.
This camp also houses personnel from the Hellenic Armed Forces and NATO, as part of Greece’s role in providing Host Nation Support.
Turkey’s Concerns and Geopolitical Implications
Turkey has expressed concerns regarding the US military presence and the passage of NATO ships through Alexandroupolis. However, Turkey’s unease extends beyond military considerations.
The upgraded port facilities offer an alternative transportation route, bypassing the Dardanelles Straits, which are controlled by Turkey. This shift reduces the strategic importance of the straits and strengthens Greece’s geopolitical position, creating new balances that may not align with Turkish interests.
Trump: It’s not a correct story!
“Trump’s decision to dismantle the military presence in Alexandroupoli came after a joint request from Presidents of Russia and Turkey”, claimed Greek newspaper Dimokratia. “It’s not a correct story!”, said POTUS Donald Trump.
Combating Misinformation
It’s essential to distinguish between factual information and disinformation. The spread of inaccurate information and fake news serves specific agendas and is part of a broader information war aimed at shaping public opinion and serving particular interests.
In conclusion, while Alexandroupolis is a crucial logistics hub for the US military and a site of cooperation under the MDCA, it does not host a permanent US military base.