Greek Farmers Protest: Tractors Storm Athens Streets

Greek farmers drove tractors into central Athens to protest rising production costs and foreign competition, demanding better government support. Despite recent aid disbursements and promises of cheaper fuel, many farmers report inadequate compensation and continue their fight for survival amid livestock disease outbreaks and economic challenges.

In a striking demonstration of unity and defiance, Greek farmers rallied in central Athens on Friday, driving dozens of tractors to demand more government support amid soaring production costs and foreign competition.

Farmers like Stavros Kozoutzis from Komotini worry about the upcoming summer cultivation period, citing insufficient funds to plant crops. The protest follows weeks of blockades over delayed farm aid payments, despite recent government announcements of disbursed funds and forthcoming support measures.

Rizos Maroudas, head of the Larissa farmers' union, emphasized the farmers' struggle, noting unmet demands such as compensation for last year's losses and investments in infrastructure. These challenges are compounded by recurring livestock disease outbreaks, with stringent biosecurity measures seen as tractors assembled in Athens.

(With inputs from agencies.)