Greek farmers have escalated nationwide protests, using thousands of tractors to block major highways, border crossings, and even clashing with riot police while attempting to blockade the Thessaloniki airport. The farmers are primarily protesting severe delays in the payment of their European Union-backed agricultural subsidies, which are crucial for their livelihoods. These delays stem from an ongoing government review and investigation into a massive corruption scandal involving widespread fraudulent claims for the EU funds. Protesters argue that this amounts to collective punishment, leaving honest agricultural workers without necessary income to pay debts and purchase supplies for the upcoming planting season.
Date: December 5, 2025 Source: apnews.com