Greek security forces arrived en masse on the island of Lesbos on Friday to help build a new shelter for thousands of migrants left homeless by fires that destroyed their camp this week.

With more than 12,000 former occupants of the notoriously overcrowded Moria camp now camping out in fields and along roadsides without food or water and threatened by a possible spread of coronavirus infections, the need for a solution has become increasingly urgent.

Many desperate families wandered listlessly in the streets of the island's main town after spending a third night sleeping out in the open, on the sides of streets, parking lots or even at petrol stations.

The Greek miltary began helping to set up a replacement site on a hilltop army firing range near the burnt-down camp, but had to use helicopters to bypass roadblocks set up by locals opposed to rehousing the migrants on the island.

Some 11,500 asylum seekers including 2,200 women and 4,000 children are without adequate shelter, the UN refugee agency said Friday, following the fires on Tuesday and Wednesday that gutted the Moria camp.

Eleven police vehicles -- some stopping the migrants from reaching a nearby port -- and two water cannon boosted the heavy presence seen on the island since the devastating blazes.

The heavy police presence has complicated efforts by volunteer groups to give the hapless asylum seekers assistance.

The additional police forces are also there to prevent local hardliners from causing trouble. In February, efforts to build a new camp on Lesbos sparked days of clashes.

Officials have blamed migrants for the fires, the first breaking out shortly after 35 people tested positive for coronavirus and were facing isolation measures.

The government is desperate to prevent a more widespread infection among the island of 85,000 people. Only eight of the positive cases have been tracked down so far.

The plight of the stranded families has prompted other European countries to offer to take in hundreds of asylum seekers, particularly unaccompanied youngsters.

The Moria camp, one of dozens built in Greece following the influx of people to Europe in 2015, was notoriously overcrowded -- often housing more than four times its intended capacity -- and became a lightning rod for local discontent.

Greece has long complained that, aside from providing funds, its EU partners have done too little to help.

An EU-wide asylum system fell apart under the strain of hundreds of thousands of arrivals, with other European nations accepting only a trickle of refugees, leaving thousands remaining trapped in Greek camps.

Germany has used the fire to call for more solidarity in Europe and along with France agreed an initiative on Thursday for EU states to share out the roughly 400 unaccompanied children and young people from the camp.

While several EU states have agreed to take in the young migrants, including Germany, France, the Netherlands and Finland, Belgium refused and Denmark said it would send money instead.

The government has also passed a law aiming to limit the access of NGOs and charities to the camps and boost official control.

The World Health Organisation said it was sending two emergency medical teams. Officials also said 200,000 rapid COVID-19 tests had been brought to the island to handle a possible upsurge in cases.

In the chaos following Wednesday's fires, authorities have lost track of at least 35 people who had tested positive.

(with inputs from agencies)

Greek security forces arrived en masse on the island of Lesbos on Friday to help build a new shelter for thousands of migrants left homeless by fires that destroyed their camp this week.

Greek security forces arrived en masse on the island of Lesbos on Friday to help build a new shelter for thousands of migrants left homeless by fires that destroyed their camp this week. With more than 12,000 former occupants of the notoriously overcrowded Moria camp now camping out in fields and along roadsides without food or water and threatened by a possible spread of coronavirus infections, the need for a solution has become increasingly urgent. Many desperate families wandered listlessly in the streets of the island's main town after spending a third night sleeping out in the open, on the sides of streets, parking lots or even at petrol stations. The Greek miltary began helping to set up a replacement site on a hilltop army firing range near the burnt-down camp, but had to use helicopters to bypass roadblocks set up by locals opposed to rehousing the migrants on the island. Some 11,500 asylum seekers including 2,200 women and 4,000 children are without adequate shelter, the UN refugee agency said Friday, following the fires on Tuesday and Wednesday that gutted the Moria camp. Eleven police vehicles -- some stopping the migrants from reaching a nearby port -- and two water cannon boosted the heavy presence seen on the island since the devastating blazes. The heavy police presence has complicated efforts by volunteer groups to give the hapless asylum seekers assistance. The additional police forces are also there to prevent local hardliners from causing trouble. In February, efforts to build a new camp on Lesbos sparked days of clashes. Officials have blamed migrants for the fires, the first breaking out shortly after 35 people tested positive for coronavirus and were facing isolation measures. The government is desperate to prevent a more widespread infection among the island of 85,000 people. Only eight of the positive cases have been tracked down so far. The plight of the stranded families has prompted other European countries to offer to take in hundreds of asylum seekers, particularly unaccompanied youngsters. The Moria camp, one of dozens built in Greece following the influx of people to Europe in 2015, was notoriously overcrowded -- often housing more than four times its intended capacity -- and became a lightning rod for local discontent. Greece has long complained that, aside from providing funds, its EU partners have done too little to help. An EU-wide asylum system fell apart under the strain of hundreds of thousands of arrivals, with other European nations accepting only a trickle of refugees, leaving thousands remaining trapped in Greek camps. Germany has used the fire to call for more solidarity in Europe and along with France agreed an initiative on Thursday for EU states to share out the roughly 400 unaccompanied children and young people from the camp. While several EU states have agreed to take in the young migrants, including Germany, France, the Netherlands and Finland, Belgium refused and Denmark said it would send money instead. The government has also passed a law aiming to limit the access of NGOs and charities to the camps and boost official control. The World Health Organisation said it was sending two emergency medical teams. Officials also said 200,000 rapid COVID-19 tests had been brought to the island to handle a possible upsurge in cases. In the chaos following Wednesday's fires, authorities have lost track of at least 35 people who had tested positive. (with inputs from agencies)

Greece ramps up emergency effort after Lesbos migrant camp fire, locals oppose plans

Little has remained of Greece's overcrowded Moria refugee camp after a fire destroyed nearly everything that had been spared in the original blaze, leaving thousands of more people in need of emergency housing.

Moria Camp: 35 migrants at migrant camp test positive for COVID-19

Greece's overcrowded migrant camp left in ashes

A wildfire fanned by strong winds forced the evacuation of a residential settlement and a boarding school in the town of Keratea near Athens, the fire brigade said on Wednesday.

The settlement of Feriza and the boarding school were evacuated protectively, a fire brigade official said, adding that there were no reports of casualties or damage. About 30 children had been transferred to a nearby hotel.

At least 40 firefighters supported by 16 fire engines, two aircraft and four helicopters battled the blaze, which broke out around midday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/fire-breaks-out-at-overcrowded-moria-migrant-camp-in-greece-326137" hreflang="en">Fire breaks out at overcrowded Moria migrant camp in Greece</a>

Traffic was diverted and TV images showed residents, wearing masks due to the coronavirus pandemic, standing in the streets nearby.

Greece often experiences wildfires during its dry summer months. Temperatures have remained high for the season, and authorities have warned of the high risk of blazes this week.

A forest fire was also burning near the seaside town of Nea Makri, northeast of Athens, the fire brigade said.

Early on Wednesday, fires broke out in a migrant camp on the island of Lesbos, destroying tents and containers and leaving thousands of people homeless.

A wildfire fanned by strong winds forced the evacuation of a residential settlement and a boarding school in the town of Keratea near Athens, the fire brigade said on Wednesday.

A wildfire fanned by strong winds forced the evacuation of a residential settlement and a boarding school in the town of Keratea near Athens, the fire brigade said on Wednesday. The settlement of Feriza and the boarding school were evacuated protectively, a fire brigade official said, adding that there were no reports of casualties or damage. About 30 children had been transferred to a nearby hotel. At least 40 firefighters supported by 16 fire engines, two aircraft and four helicopters battled the blaze, which broke out around midday. Also read: Fire breaks out at overcrowded Moria migrant camp in Greece Traffic was diverted and TV images showed residents, wearing masks due to the coronavirus pandemic, standing in the streets nearby. Greece often experiences wildfires during its dry summer months. Temperatures have remained high for the season, and authorities have warned of the high risk of blazes this week. A forest fire was also burning near the seaside town of Nea Makri, northeast of Athens, the fire brigade said. Early on Wednesday, fires broke out in a migrant camp on the island of Lesbos, destroying tents and containers and leaving thousands of people homeless.

Greek wildfire rages near Athens, residential area evacuated

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan ratcheted up his rhetoric on Monday (September 7), amid growing tensions between the neighbours over energy resources in the eastern Mediterranean.

Turkey begins military exercises near northern Cyprus

As many as 44 per cent of Greeks said they would not take a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine for the novel coronavirus</a>, a poll published on Sunday revealed.&nbsp;

According to the study published in To Vima weekly, forty-four per cent of participants said they would not take the COVID-19 vaccine even if it is freely available and duly approved.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/90-of-chinas-sinovac-employees-families-took-coronavirus-vaccine-325534">90% of China's Sinovac employees, families took coronavirus vaccine</a>

It said the vaccine refusal rate is 56 per cent in the age group of 45-54 and 54 per cent among 17-34 category.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uncertainty-over-long-term-immune-response-has-implications-for-vaccine-efficacy-experts-325524">Uncertainty over long-term immune response has implications for vaccine efficacy: Experts</a>

The study that was carried out by Greek company Metron Analysis and included 1,000 respondents also found that nearly 17 per cent people oppose wearing masks in public spaces.&nbsp;

The Greek government has already said that the vaccine to treat the deadly virus would not be mandatory, but will be "strongly recommended."

Greece has so far handled the virus much better than other European countries with over 11,500 infections and 284 deaths.

However, half of the total number of infections were recorded in August, suggesting that reopening of economy, borders and resumption of large gatherings have led to a sharp rise in cases.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

As many as 44 per cent of Greeks said they would not take a vaccine for the novel coronavirus, a poll published on Sunday revealed. According to the study published in To Vima weekly, forty-four per cent of participants said they would not take the COVID-19 vaccine even if it is freely available and duly approved.

As many as 44 per cent of Greeks said they would not take a vaccine for the novel coronavirus, a poll published on Sunday revealed. According to the study published in To Vima weekly, forty-four per cent of participants said they would not take the COVID-19 vaccine even if it is freely available and duly approved. Also read | 90% of China's Sinovac employees, families took coronavirus vaccine It said the vaccine refusal rate is 56 per cent in the age group of 45-54 and 54 per cent among 17-34 category. Also read | Uncertainty over long-term immune response has implications for vaccine efficacy: Experts The study that was carried out by Greek company Metron Analysis and included 1,000 respondents also found that nearly 17 per cent people oppose wearing masks in public spaces. The Greek government has already said that the vaccine to treat the deadly virus would not be mandatory, but will be "strongly recommended." Greece has so far handled the virus much better than other European countries with over 11,500 infections and 284 deaths. However, half of the total number of infections were recorded in August, suggesting that reopening of economy, borders and resumption of large gatherings have led to a sharp rise in cases.

44% of people in Greece to skip coronavirus vaccine: Study

The transport secretary acknowledged people's frustrations, as Scotland and Wales asked arrivals from Portugal and parts of Greece to isolate, but England and Northern Ireland held off. Travel firms asked government for more clarity over this.

Travellers confused due to varying quarantine rules across UK

Greece and Turkey have agreed to talks to avoid accidental clashes in the Eastern Mediterranean, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg.

NATO: Greece, Turkey agree to talks over Eastern Mediterranean

NATO said on Thursday that Greece and Turkey had agreed to talks to ease their dispute over eastern Mediterranean borders and energy rights, but Athens swiftly denied any deal on negotiations. But later Greece denied it had agreed to hold NATO-brokered talks with Turkey.

Greece: Not part of NATO-brokered talks

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Thursday asked Turkey to do away with "threats" against his country if talks on de-escalating tension in the eastern Mediterranean are to kick off.

"Let threats go away so that the contacts can begin," the said as he met a visiting senior official of the Chinese Communist party, as quoted by news agency AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mediterranean-crisis-greece-turkey-agree-de-escalation-talks-says-nato-325103">Mediterranean crisis: Greece, Turkey agree de-escalation talks says NATO</a>

The comments came as Athens denied any talks with Ankara brokered by NATO to resolve the issue.&nbsp;

On Thursday, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said both the countries have "agreed to enter into technical talks at NATO to establish mechanisms for military de-confliction to reduce the risk of incidents and accidents in the eastern Mediterranean". &nbsp;

"Greece and Turkey are valued allies, and NATO is an important platform for consultations on all issues that affect our shared security."

However, Greece later denied any such talks, saying they "do not correspond to reality".

"Published information claiming Greece and Turkey have agreed to hold so-called 'technical talks' on de-escalating tensions in the eastern Mediterranean do not correspond to reality," Greece's foreign ministry said.

"De-escalation will only take place with the immediate withdrawal of all Turkish vessels from the Greek continental shelf."

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Thursday asked Turkey to do away with "threats" against his country if talks on de-escalating tension in the eastern Mediterranean are to kick off.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Thursday asked Turkey to do away with "threats" against his country if talks on de-escalating tension in the eastern Mediterranean are to kick off. "Let threats go away so that the contacts can begin," the said as he met a visiting senior official of the Chinese Communist party, as quoted by news agency AFP. Also read | Mediterranean crisis: Greece, Turkey agree de-escalation talks says NATO The comments came as Athens denied any talks with Ankara brokered by NATO to resolve the issue. On Thursday, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said both the countries have "agreed to enter into technical talks at NATO to establish mechanisms for military de-confliction to reduce the risk of incidents and accidents in the eastern Mediterranean". "Greece and Turkey are valued allies, and NATO is an important platform for consultations on all issues that affect our shared security." However, Greece later denied any such talks, saying they "do not correspond to reality". "Published information claiming Greece and Turkey have agreed to hold so-called 'technical talks' on de-escalating tensions in the eastern Mediterranean do not correspond to reality," Greece's foreign ministry said. "De-escalation will only take place with the immediate withdrawal of all Turkish vessels from the Greek continental shelf."

Turkey should stop 'threats' against Greece for talks to begin: PM Mitsotakis

The eastern Mediterranean conflict between Turkey and Greece has escalated to the skies. The Ionian seas is now a scene of war with naval frigates, submarines and, the sonic boom of the fighter jets.

The eastern Mediterranean conflict between Turkey and Greece has escalated to the skies. The Ionian seas is now a scene of war with naval frigates, submarines and, the sonic boom of the fighter jets. In the guise of military drills, Turkey and Greece are confronting each other. But, what are they fighting over? Oil and gas reserves in the Eastern Mediterranean seas. 1.7 billion barrels of oil and 3.5 trillion cubic meters of gas is found in these seas. It's a pot of gold ----- but, in disputed waters. It was Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan who started the conflict. He sent a research vessel accompanied by warships to look for oil. Erdogan is challenging maps that were drawn nearly 100 years ago. Erdogan first roped in Libya signing a deal to start drilling. This angered Egypt. Greece said it won't allow Turkey to drill. × Erdogan says it is Turkey's right to do so. He said: "Can those who are standing before us in the Mediterranean and its adjacent areas face up to the sacrifice (the same amount we are willing to sacrifice)? Do the Greek people accept what will happen to them because of their greedy and deficient administrators?" It's a clash of NATO allies. Both Turkey and Greece are part of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation. Europe has pressed the panic button. France, Italy and Cyprus have joined the Greek fleet. Europe is backing Greece asking Erdogan to show restraint. EU's Foreign Policy Chief said: "The (EU foreign) ministers were very clear and determined to show eu solidarity with its two affected member states - namely Cyprus and Greece - and they were very clear in their call on Turkish authorities to end any unilateral activities, which are escalating tensions in the Mediterranean and the ministers and the eu are very clear in preferring dialogue." Turkey has long wanted to join the EU. But, this rush to lay siege to the oil wells is backfiring. Instead of membership, Turkey may get sanctions. The Netherlands and Austria, among the richest EU members, are for it. The EU is stressing on dialogue but, is also open to sanction Turkey that'll cut off Ankara's access to European ports, capacities, and technology. Germany, the mediator in this case, is asking Turkey and Greece to halt naval exercises. Germany has an obligation to both countries. As the president of the EU council ----- it owes its power to Greece. But with 3 million citizens of Turkish origin attacking Erdogan may cause unrest at home. Germany’s Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said that he is paying attention to every little spark that can lead to catastrophe.

Turkey risks sanctions from EU after conflict with Greece intensifies

Turkey is defying EU's ultimatum to end conflict with Greece in East Mediterranean seas. It is now a geopolitical powerplay with France offering Rafale jets to Greece

Gravitas: Turkey To Wage a War Against Greece?

Turkey has launched a military drill in eastern Mediterranean a day after it intercepted six F-16 Greek fighters. Turkey says it will carry out the exercises till 11th September.

Turkey launched a military drill in eastern Mediterranean Sea

Experts around the world are trying to find a perfect answer to this question that will Greece and Turkey actively engage each other in the Mediterranean?

The NATO allies are fighting over energy hydrocarbon resources to be more specific. Greece and Turkey have disputes over maritime boundaries. There is also no consensus on offshore energy rights. The countries have sent warships into the Mediterranean.

Neither of them seems interested in taking a step back. Turkey has announced live drills in the eastern Mediterranean. It has also extended the seismic work of its research vessel, Oruc Reis, till September 1.

Greece, on the other hand, has been dialling all its allies. France, Italy, Greece and Cyprus are planning military exercises in the high waters. The US too has been dragged in.

US President Donald Trump held talks with both Greece Prime Minister-- Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Turkish President Recep Erdogan.

And the strongest country in the European Union, Germany is expected to back Greece against Turkey.

German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, today in a press conference said that: "I believe that all of us as member states of the European Union must, of course, take Greece's rights and concerns very seriously, and support them when they are in the right. Nevertheless, I have always argued for the situation not to escalate further and to an extent that is only possible if we keep talking to both sides. I have had intensive conversations with the [French] President Macron about the relationship with Turkey, which is complex. Turkey is a NATO partner and this conflict is fundamentally between two NATO partners, which cannot leave us unmoved. For this reason, we must try to work things out within the alliance."

This is not the first time that the German Chancellor has shied from taking a stand against Turkey.

And the reason behind this is that Germany is home to more than 3 million people of Turkish origin. It is also Turkey's biggest trading partner.

Around 7,000 German companies operate in Turkey. The two countries have had a tensed past and they are now working towards improving bilateral ties.

In 2018, Merkel vowed to enhance cooperation with Turkey and it does not seem like Merkel wants to strain that. Leaders opposing Merkel have criticized her for not having a clear policy on Turkey.

She has proven them right by failing to back Greece in the Mediterranean. What her rhetorical stand has also done is --- once again raised questions on the European Union's clout.

Experts around the world are trying to find a perfect answer to this question that will Greece and Turkey actively engage each other in the Mediterranean? The NATO allies are fighting over energy hydrocarbon resources to be more specific.

Experts around the world are trying to find a perfect answer to this question that will Greece and Turkey actively engage each other in the Mediterranean? The NATO allies are fighting over energy hydrocarbon resources to be more specific. Greece and Turkey have disputes over maritime boundaries. There is also no consensus on offshore energy rights. The countries have sent warships into the Mediterranean. Neither of them seems interested in taking a step back. Turkey has announced live drills in the eastern Mediterranean. It has also extended the seismic work of its research vessel, Oruc Reis, till September 1. Greece, on the other hand, has been dialling all its allies. France, Italy, Greece and Cyprus are planning military exercises in the high waters. The US too has been dragged in. US President Donald Trump held talks with both Greece Prime Minister-- Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Turkish President Recep Erdogan. And the strongest country in the European Union, Germany is expected to back Greece against Turkey. German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, today in a press conference said that: "I believe that all of us as member states of the European Union must, of course, take Greece's rights and concerns very seriously, and support them when they are in the right. Nevertheless, I have always argued for the situation not to escalate further and to an extent that is only possible if we keep talking to both sides. I have had intensive conversations with the [French] President Macron about the relationship with Turkey, which is complex. Turkey is a NATO partner and this conflict is fundamentally between two NATO partners, which cannot leave us unmoved. For this reason, we must try to work things out within the alliance." This is not the first time that the German Chancellor has shied from taking a stand against Turkey. And the reason behind this is that Germany is home to more than 3 million people of Turkish origin. It is also Turkey's biggest trading partner. Around 7,000 German companies operate in Turkey. The two countries have had a tensed past and they are now working towards improving bilateral ties. In 2018, Merkel vowed to enhance cooperation with Turkey and it does not seem like Merkel wants to strain that. Leaders opposing Merkel have criticized her for not having a clear policy on Turkey. She has proven them right by failing to back Greece in the Mediterranean. What her rhetorical stand has also done is --- once again raised questions on the European Union's clout.

Mediterranean crisis:  Germany calls for dialogue between Turkey, Greece

Greece & UAE held the military exercises in the Eastern Mediterranean. Greece has called Turkey's 2019 Libya agreement illegal. Turkey said deal with Egypt overlaps with maritime zone.

Video: Greece and UAE hold military exercises

Tensions continue to escalate between Nato allies. Turkish Air Forces intercepted six F-16 Greek fighters over the Mediterranean Sea. Greece media reported the news as 'Turkey harassed the jets'.

Greece-Turkey Dispute: Turkish intercepts six F-16 Greek fighters over Mediterranean Sea

Germany on Thursday called for an end to naval exercises in the eastern Mediterranean Sea to allow space for talks between Greece and Turkey, at odds over gas resources and maritime borders.

EU foreign ministers meeting in Berlin are discussing tensions in the area, where the two NATO members are locked in a standoff observers fear could accidentally tip into conflict.

Turkey on Thursday announced new "gunnery exercises" at the edge of its territorial waters in the northeastern corner of the Mediterranean, after Greece -- joined by France, Cyprus and Italy -- staged its own war games.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/turkey-versus-greece-a-long-history-of-disputes-323392#cyprus-323383">Have a look|&nbsp;Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes</a>

"We need a diplomatic solution to this conflict... The preconditions for these talks are that these manoeuvres in the eastern Mediterranean, are stopped," German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, who has tried to mediate between the two countries, told reporters in Berlin.

"For sure the parties will not sit down at the table when warships are facing each other in the eastern Mediterranean."

The EU has long been angered by Turkey sending ships on exploratory missions to drill for gas in waters claimed by Cyprus and earlier this year imposed sanctions on two Turkish nationals involved in the work.

The bloc's diplomatic chief Josep Borrell will present ministers with a "range of options" for dealing with Turkey, officials say, though he has been keen to stress the importance of keeping dialogue with Ankara going.

But there is pressure from some quarters for tough action on Turkey, and while the Berlin meeting is an informal one, with no decisions to be taken, EU leaders will focus on the issue at a summit next month.

"Europe's credibility is at stake. The European Union, a union of 27 member states, must stand up for international values, for a global international order based on the values and principles of the European Union," Cypriot Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides said as he arrived for the talks in Berlin.

"EU solidarity must be real and substantial."

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His Austrian counterpart Alexander Schallenberg said the eastern Mediterranean was an "ever-growing powder keg" where the number of naval vessels made incidents "almost inevitable"

"Turkey disregards all conventions... international law cannot be negotiated," he added.

Ahead of the Berlin talks, a senior EU official said Borrell wanted ministers to consider the bloc's relationship with Turkey in its entirety, stressing that whatever difficulties there might be, Ankara remained a "very important neighbour" that had to be managed.

Germany on Thursday called for an end to naval exercises in the eastern Mediterranean Sea to allow space for talks between Greece and Turkey, at odds over gas resources and maritime borders.

Germany on Thursday called for an end to naval exercises in the eastern Mediterranean Sea to allow space for talks between Greece and Turkey, at odds over gas resources and maritime borders. EU foreign ministers meeting in Berlin are discussing tensions in the area, where the two NATO members are locked in a standoff observers fear could accidentally tip into conflict. Turkey on Thursday announced new "gunnery exercises" at the edge of its territorial waters in the northeastern corner of the Mediterranean, after Greece -- joined by France, Cyprus and Italy -- staged its own war games. Have a look| Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes "We need a diplomatic solution to this conflict... The preconditions for these talks are that these manoeuvres in the eastern Mediterranean, are stopped," German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, who has tried to mediate between the two countries, told reporters in Berlin. "For sure the parties will not sit down at the table when warships are facing each other in the eastern Mediterranean." The EU has long been angered by Turkey sending ships on exploratory missions to drill for gas in waters claimed by Cyprus and earlier this year imposed sanctions on two Turkish nationals involved in the work. The bloc's diplomatic chief Josep Borrell will present ministers with a "range of options" for dealing with Turkey, officials say, though he has been keen to stress the importance of keeping dialogue with Ankara going. But there is pressure from some quarters for tough action on Turkey, and while the Berlin meeting is an informal one, with no decisions to be taken, EU leaders will focus on the issue at a summit next month. "Europe's credibility is at stake. The European Union, a union of 27 member states, must stand up for international values, for a global international order based on the values and principles of the European Union," Cypriot Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides said as he arrived for the talks in Berlin. "EU solidarity must be real and substantial." × His Austrian counterpart Alexander Schallenberg said the eastern Mediterranean was an "ever-growing powder keg" where the number of naval vessels made incidents "almost inevitable" "Turkey disregards all conventions... international law cannot be negotiated," he added. Ahead of the Berlin talks, a senior EU official said Borrell wanted ministers to consider the bloc's relationship with Turkey in its entirety, stressing that whatever difficulties there might be, Ankara remained a "very important neighbour" that had to be managed.

Mediterranean war games must stop to allow talks: Germany

Turkey's Recep Tayyip Erdogan is provoking neighbours and claiming disputed territory in the Mediterranean. Greece and Turkey are conducting military drills. May fear that the dispute could trigger a military conflict. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Are Greece and Turkey on a war path?

What explains Recep Tayyip Erdogan's aggression in Eastern Mediterranean? Erdogan is junking old treaties and provoking through the military. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you how the Turkish President is following China's playbook of expansionism.

Gravitas: Erdogan is following China's playbook of expansionism

Athens is ready for a "significant de-escalation" in the Eastern Mediterranean provided Turkey halts its "provocative actions", Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said Wednesday.

Mitsotakis made the comments during a phone call with US President Donald Trump, as the row between the two neighbours over gas and maritime borders ratcheted up another notch.

Earlier,&nbsp;Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu had said&nbsp;Turkey was ready for talks with Greece&nbsp;without any preconditions.

"We are in favour of negotiations for fair sharing but nobody should lay down preconditions. This cannot happen with preconditions laid down by Greece."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mediterranean-row-turkey-says-ready-for-talks-with-greece-without-preconditions-323121">Mediterranean row: Turkey says ready for talks with Greece without 'preconditions'</a>

Greece and its EU allies held war games in the Mediterranean Wednesday while Turkey conducted drills with the US navy nearby, as the row between the two neighbours over gas and maritime borders ratcheted up another notch.

The convergence of a growing number of warships on an energy-rich but disputed patch of sea between Cyprus and Crete came as NATO and a host of European officials called for cooler heads to prevail.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-says-conducted-mediterranean-exercise-with-us-323260" hreflang="en">Turkey says conducted Mediterranean exercise with US</a>

Tensions ratched up another notch when Turkey sent the Oruc Reis research vessel accompanied by warships to disputed waters on August 10.

EU powerhouse Germany is spearheading efforts to avoid an outright military conflict that could imperil Europe's future access to newly-discovered energy reserves.

Greece's maritime claims are backed by the entire European Union, but the bloc has so far held back from heavily sanctioning&nbsp;Turkey, fearing possible retaliation from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Maas shuttled between Athens and Ankara on Tuesday in a bid to get the sides to temper the rhetoric and re-enter direct talks.

After both visits were over, Maas conceded that the dispute had entered a "very critical" phase.

Cavusoglu praised the German mediation effort but said Ankara made a good faith gesture by announcing a pause to its exploration activity last month.

He argued that&nbsp;Turkey&nbsp;felt it had to resume its work when Greece signed an agreement with Egypt to set up an exclusive economic zone on August 6, violating a general sense of goodwill.

On Sunday,&nbsp;Turkey&nbsp;announced a decision to extend its exploratory ship Oruc Reis's mission by an extra four days to Thursday, which prompted an immediate Greek response to carry out naval exercises nearby.&nbsp;

Athens is ready for a "significant de-escalation" in the Eastern Mediterranean provided Turkey halts its "provocative actions", Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said Wednesday.

Athens is ready for a "significant de-escalation" in the Eastern Mediterranean provided Turkey halts its "provocative actions", Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said Wednesday. Mitsotakis made the comments during a phone call with US President Donald Trump, as the row between the two neighbours over gas and maritime borders ratcheted up another notch. Earlier, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu had said Turkey was ready for talks with Greece without any preconditions. "We are in favour of negotiations for fair sharing but nobody should lay down preconditions. This cannot happen with preconditions laid down by Greece." Also read: Mediterranean row: Turkey says ready for talks with Greece without 'preconditions' Greece and its EU allies held war games in the Mediterranean Wednesday while Turkey conducted drills with the US navy nearby, as the row between the two neighbours over gas and maritime borders ratcheted up another notch. The convergence of a growing number of warships on an energy-rich but disputed patch of sea between Cyprus and Crete came as NATO and a host of European officials called for cooler heads to prevail. Also read: Turkey says conducted Mediterranean exercise with US Tensions ratched up another notch when Turkey sent the Oruc Reis research vessel accompanied by warships to disputed waters on August 10. EU powerhouse Germany is spearheading efforts to avoid an outright military conflict that could imperil Europe's future access to newly-discovered energy reserves. Greece's maritime claims are backed by the entire European Union, but the bloc has so far held back from heavily sanctioning Turkey, fearing possible retaliation from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Maas shuttled between Athens and Ankara on Tuesday in a bid to get the sides to temper the rhetoric and re-enter direct talks. After both visits were over, Maas conceded that the dispute had entered a "very critical" phase. Cavusoglu praised the German mediation effort but said Ankara made a good faith gesture by announcing a pause to its exploration activity last month. He argued that Turkey felt it had to resume its work when Greece signed an agreement with Egypt to set up an exclusive economic zone on August 6, violating a general sense of goodwill. On Sunday, Turkey announced a decision to extend its exploratory ship Oruc Reis's mission by an extra four days to Thursday, which prompted an immediate Greek response to carry out naval exercises nearby.

Greek Prime Minister offers 'de-escalation' if Turkey eases off in Eastern Mediterranean

Turkey and Greece are NATO allies but, they have mobilized their navies against each other. Both sides have been at odds over a host of issues.

Now, a spark, triggered by Recep Tayyi̇p Erdogan is pushing Turkey and Greece closer to a military confrontation.

Turkish and Greek ships are sailing in waters of geopolitics in the eastern Mediterranean.

The differences are old. But some have turned into disputes, threatening to engulf the whole of Europe.

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A battle for gas reserves could push Turkey and Greece into a military confrontation. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan refuses to budge, he said: "We are determined to do whatever is necessary in military, politic and economic sense. We invite our counterparts to get it together and avoid mistakes that would bring their destruction."

What explains Erdogan's assertiveness?

The Turkish president has consolidated power at home. He now wants to make Turkey a superpower.

That's the promise he made to the voters of Turkey in 2018.

These territorial claims and new-found aggression are a message to the people of Turkey.

In 2017, Erdogan challenged a hundred-year-old Lausanne treaty and revived the territorial dispute.

In 2019, Turkey claimed that northern Syria is part of the Turkish homeland.

Erdogan backed his words with his military posturing to assert control over the region. He even intervened militarily, alongside its proxy --- the Syrian national army. As of today --- they control several parts of northern Syria.

Here is the pattern of Erdogan's moves.&nbsp;

1. Rejection of mutually agreed treaties

2. Military adventurism

3. Claiming disputed territory

4. And bullying neighbours

Which country has mastered this playbook?

These are the hallmarks of Chinese expansionism and this is how China approaches territorial disputes.

Beijing has been sailing its ships in the disputed South China sea. Staking claim to territory that belongs to others, or is disputed.

Rejecting old treaties-- like the Simla accord and the McMahon line. These are used by India to define its boundary with China.

On Tuesday, the Turkish navy held a drill in the eastern Mediterranean. Erdogan declared Turkey will not make any concessions.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan said: "Turkey, in the Mediterranean, Aegean and Black sea will get what is its right. In the same way we don't have our eyes on someone else's territory, sovereignty, interests, we will not give any concessions on that which is ours."

The Turkish president wants to appear strong at home and the blue motherland plan --- a pitch by Erdogan to turn Turkey into a real maritime power -- is a step in that direction.

But unlike China, it does not have the firepower to back its territorial claims and it's up against some formidable navies in the Mediterranean.

Turkey and Greece are NATO allies but, they have mobilized their navies against each other. Both sides have been at odds over a host of issues. Now, a spark, triggered by Recep Tayyi̇p Erdogan is pushing Turkey and Greece closer to a military confrontation.

Turkey and Greece are NATO allies but, they have mobilized their navies against each other. Both sides have been at odds over a host of issues. Now, a spark, triggered by Recep Tayyi̇p Erdogan is pushing Turkey and Greece closer to a military confrontation. Turkish and Greek ships are sailing in waters of geopolitics in the eastern Mediterranean. The differences are old. But some have turned into disputes, threatening to engulf the whole of Europe. A battle for gas reserves could push Turkey and Greece into a military confrontation. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan refuses to budge, he said: "We are determined to do whatever is necessary in military, politic and economic sense. We invite our counterparts to get it together and avoid mistakes that would bring their destruction." What explains Erdogan's assertiveness? The Turkish president has consolidated power at home. He now wants to make Turkey a superpower. That's the promise he made to the voters of Turkey in 2018. These territorial claims and new-found aggression are a message to the people of Turkey. In 2017, Erdogan challenged a hundred-year-old Lausanne treaty and revived the territorial dispute. In 2019, Turkey claimed that northern Syria is part of the Turkish homeland. Erdogan backed his words with his military posturing to assert control over the region. He even intervened militarily, alongside its proxy --- the Syrian national army. As of today --- they control several parts of northern Syria. Here is the pattern of Erdogan's moves. 1. Rejection of mutually agreed treaties 2. Military adventurism 3. Claiming disputed territory 4. And bullying neighbours Which country has mastered this playbook? These are the hallmarks of Chinese expansionism and this is how China approaches territorial disputes. Beijing has been sailing its ships in the disputed South China sea. Staking claim to territory that belongs to others, or is disputed. Rejecting old treaties-- like the Simla accord and the McMahon line. These are used by India to define its boundary with China. On Tuesday, the Turkish navy held a drill in the eastern Mediterranean. Erdogan declared Turkey will not make any concessions. Recep Tayyip Erdogan said: "Turkey, in the Mediterranean, Aegean and Black sea will get what is its right. In the same way we don't have our eyes on someone else's territory, sovereignty, interests, we will not give any concessions on that which is ours." The Turkish president wants to appear strong at home and the blue motherland plan --- a pitch by Erdogan to turn Turkey into a real maritime power -- is a step in that direction. But unlike China, it does not have the firepower to back its territorial claims and it's up against some formidable navies in the Mediterranean.

Turkey and Greece mobilize their navies; come close to military confrontation

Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes

Turkey said Wednesday it had conducted exercises with a US navy destroyer in the eastern Mediterranean, hours after its rival Greece began war games with France and EU allies nearby.

"Turkish frigates TCG Barbaros and TCG Burgazada have conducted maritime training with American destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill in the eastern Mediterranean on 26 August," the defence ministry announced in a tweet.

The ministry also released photos of three warships, two of them Turkish and one flying the Turkish and US flags.

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It did not specify the military drills' location or other details.

The Turkish announcement came in the heat of an escalating row over maritime borders and rights to large natural gas reserves that has pitted Turkey against its old rival Greece and the rest of the European Union.

Greece began three days of exercises with France, Italy and Cyprus on Wednesday in an area south of Crete.

Turkey said Wednesday it had conducted exercises with a US navy destroyer in the eastern Mediterranean, hours after its rival Greece began war games with France and EU allies nearby.

Turkey said Wednesday it had conducted exercises with a US navy destroyer in the eastern Mediterranean, hours after its rival Greece began war games with France and EU allies nearby. "Turkish frigates TCG Barbaros and TCG Burgazada have conducted maritime training with American destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill in the eastern Mediterranean on 26 August," the defence ministry announced in a tweet. The ministry also released photos of three warships, two of them Turkish and one flying the Turkish and US flags. × It did not specify the military drills' location or other details. The Turkish announcement came in the heat of an escalating row over maritime borders and rights to large natural gas reserves that has pitted Turkey against its old rival Greece and the rest of the European Union. Greece began three days of exercises with France, Italy and Cyprus on Wednesday in an area south of Crete.

Turkey says conducted Mediterranean exercise with US

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