Minister of Health, Adonis Georgiadis, expressed his support for the Hellenic Navy personnel who chanted nationalist slogans, including insults aimed at Turkey, during the 25 March Greek Independence Day parade. In a social media post, Georgiadis declared, “Let’s stop vilifying these kids. They are our kids, we love them, we protect them, and we are proud of their patriotism.”

In a video circulating online, during the 25 March parade commemorating Greek War of Independence, members of the Hellenic Navy can be heard chanting “Cyprus is Greek” as well as insults against Turkey.

“Let’s stop vilifying these kids. They are our kids, we love them, we protect them, and we are proud of their patriotism.”

Georgiadis went on to defend the nationalist chants, arguing that “since ancient times, warriors have uttered various slogans as part of their military preparation. These are often mocking and harsh against the enemy. Ancient texts are full of such verbal insults.”

He further claimed, “In this sense, the well-known incident the other day fits into this long-standing and entirely Greek (and not only Greek) tradition.” He also echoed the provocative nationalist rhetoric of his party’s parliamentary spokesperson, Thanos Plevris, stating:

“In the end, what kind of army do we want? One like the Civil Protection or one truly ready to fight if necessary?”

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