Friend forever — unfriend forever: Russia and Turkey as seen by modern Greeks

Abstract

Greece today is unique among EU countries. Entirely European, it preserves simultaneously some characteristic Balkan features, including its traditions, Orthodox Christianity, and a special, historically determined approach to Russia and Turkey. Stereotypical images of these countries in Greece are based on the long relationship history between the three nations, and little can be done to change them, even today: neither attempts to conduct warm neighbourly dialogue between Greece and Turkey nor the neutral position of the Greek government towards Russia have had any effect. This is confirmed by the results of numerous opinion polls. Nowadays, the majority of Greeks still believe that Russia is a friend and helpmate, while Turkey is a dangerous neighbour that Greece can be at peace with, but never fully trust.