Politics Greece strengthens coast guard - focus on Crete
In view of increasing migration movements via the route from Libya to Crete, Greece is planning to increase the number of personnel in its coastguard.
20.04.2026, 16:01
SDA
In addition, the Greek Minister for Shipping and Island Policy, Vassilis Kikilias, announced the procurement of four aircraft and two drones to be deployed in the sea area south of Crete. The island is a "top priority" for the Greek government, Kikilias told ERTNews.
Crete is around 300 kilometers from the Libyan port city of Tobruk. Migrant smugglers use this route to release migrants into the open sea without adequate supplies or navigation facilities. This repeatedly leads to accidents. According to official figures, around 20,000 people reached the popular vacation island in 2025.
