Tensions mount at roadblocks as Greece warns farmer protesters

The Greek government issued a dual message to protesting farmers as tensions at roadblocks escalated, rather than easing, following what officials described as “aggressive” behaviour by a farmer toward police in Thessaloniki.

According to Greek media reports, authorities emphasised that while communication channels with farmers must remain open, there are “red lines” regarding acts of violence and attempts to seize critical state infrastructure, including customs posts, ports, and airports.

“The state will not show tolerance for delinquent behaviour. The law will be enforced, without asterisks,” government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis said.

Officials indicated that the government’s approach toward farmers will remain measured for now, maintaining a restrained tone until the next round of basic support payments is issued. However, they stressed that any attempts to occupy infrastructure essential to state operations—or any acts of violence—would trigger a tougher response. The government cited a recent incident in which a tractor driver allegedly tried to reverse over a police officer.

Marinakis reiterated the warning of zero tolerance, referencing an attempt by a group of farmers to approach Thessaloniki’s Makedonia Airport with the aim of blocking it. He added that while the government supports dialogue with farmers and has already implemented decisions “for the benefit of the overwhelming majority” of lawful farmers and livestock breeders, dialogue “cannot take place at a time when serious incidents occur,” including attacks on police that have left one officer injured.

Deputy Minister for Citizen Protection Giannis Lampropoulos told Parliament that it would be inappropriate “to close the roads, to stop the transport of products, to prevent people from travelling ahead of Christmas,” or to shut down ports, airports, customs, and other entry points.

He also confirmed that all subsidies will be paid by the end of December.

By Tamilla Hasanova