Tensions have emerged within SYRIZA and between SYRIZA and New Left as the government’s defense program, particularly the fourth FDI Behlarra frigate, is discussed in Parliament today.
Although SYRIZA’s parliamentary leadership decided to vote in favour, the decision was challenging and accompanied by objections from party officials, including Secretary Stergios Kalpakis and Press Representative Kostas Zachariadis.
New Left remains firmly opposed to such policies, unwilling to compromise even amid a fluid geopolitical context. MPs like Giorgos Karameros emphasize that the frigate issue concerns national security rather than Europe’s Rearm agenda. At the same time, SYRIZA cannot ignore its established defense cooperation with France, as seen in previous programs, such as the Rafale aircraft purchases in 2021.
PASOK’s intention to also support the frigate vote further limits SYRIZA’s flexibility. New Left may request a roll-call vote to ensure their dissent is clearly recorded. The SYRIZA Central Committee meeting on Saturday is expected to address additional internal differences, in a process intensified by Alexis Tsipras’ absence.
The debate over the fourth Behlarra frigate highlights internal party tensions and the challenges in fostering a broader progressive dialogue, with the government closely monitoring the positions of all involved parties.
