The Greek military's chief of staff ordered the withdrawal of all Greek forces participating in joint NATO military exercises in Turkey in a spat over sovereignty, public television reported Sunday.
"Greece does not negotiate its sovereign rights, we cannot accept Turkey's indirect efforts, by using NATO exercises, to promote its illegal demands," Greek Defense Minister Akis Tsohatzopoulos, speaking in Cyprus, told NET.
Tsohatzopoulos had said Saturday that Turkish fighter aircraft flew too close to Greek planes taking part in the Destined Glory exercises and then Ankara "closed its airspace" to other Greek aircraft, describing the actions as unacceptable.
Six Greek F-16 fighters, two marine and infantry companies and two warships, as well as senior military staff, were recalled home, General Manousos Paragoudakis said Sunday.
The exercises, which began October 11, are set to continue through Wednesday – ATHENS (AFP)
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