Support provided to Cyprus during recent regional tensions was described as a “gamechanger” by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Saturday, who said European allies acted collectively to assist a member state facing security threats.

Speaking alongside French President Emmanuel Macron during a visit to the frigate Kimon in Piraeus, Mitsotakis said that “we supported Cyprus at the time of threat, what we did with Cyprus was a gamechanger,” stressing that the response demonstrated Europe’s ability to act in practice.

He added that the intervention reflected a broader commitment to collective defence. “We put into practical application Article 42.7, on common defence, we need to take this article much more seriously.”

The remarks come after the deployment of Greek naval and air assets to Cyprus in March after a drone hit the British base of Akrotiri in Limassol.

The frigate Kimon, described by Mitsotakis as the ‘pride of the Greek fleet’, remained in Cypriot waters for over 40 days, according to its commanding officer, providing operational presence and contributing to regional security.

French support was also underlined during the visit, with Macron referencing joint defence cooperation and earlier assistance.

“We will be here for you should your sovereignty ever be threatened” he said.

Following the drone attack, a European armada formed around Cyprus as various countries sent warships.

Greek frigates, including Kimon and Psara, were deployed alongside fighter aircraft, forming a protective presence.

Mitsotakis framed the response as evidence of Europe’s evolving defence posture, pointing to long-standing concerns over burden-sharing within NATO.

“President Trump was right in 2017 when he said that Europe is not doing enough on defence,” he said, adding that Greece had “consistently maintained higher defence commitments” due to national security considerations.

Macron, for his part, stressed the need for Europe to strengthen its strategic autonomy while maintaining alliances.

“When Europe is united, it is a huge force,” he said, adding that the current global environment presents “a moment” for Europe to reinforce its role as a reliable partner.

Both leaders also referred to the importance of enhancing the European pillar within NATO and expanding cooperation beyond traditional frameworks.

Macron stressed that Europeans must “work together on joint operations”, including in regions such as the Eastern Mediterranean.