Blinken asks Greece to hand over soviet air defense systems to Ukraine in exchange for new F-35s

Kathimerini reports.

Antony Blinken sends a letter to the Greek Prime Minister proposing six steps to expand cooperation, including support for Ukraine. "We continue to be interested in the defense capabilities that Greece could transfer or sell to Ukraine. If these opportunities are of interest to Ukraine, and until the U.S. government assesses their status and value, we can explore the possibilities of additional funding for Greece's armed forces of up to $200 million," the letter reads.

These are weapons that are no longer used by the Greek army but are very much needed in Ukraine. Greece possesses Soviet air defense systems, including Tor, Osa, S-300, and anti-aircraft installations ZU-23-2, according to DW.

At the same time, the U.S. is accommodating Athens and ready to meet the needs of the Greek army with 40 new F-35 aircraft. This was Greece's primary request to the United States. 

As revealed in the published letter from Blinken to Mitsotakis, the Greeks will also have the opportunity to receive American aircraft Hercules, patrol boats Protector, BMP Bradley, aviation engines, and spare parts.

• On January 5, it was reported that US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken would visit Greece to discuss support for Ukraine.