Expanding U.S. Strategic Presence in Greece: A Move to Displace China from Mediterranean Logistics Infrastructure and Launch IMEC Routes

On February 5, 2026, the National Intelligence Service of Greece, in coordination with the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency, completed a four-month counterintelligence operation to neutralize a Chinese agent network aimed at undermining NATO security.

Within its framework, Colonel Christos Flessas of the Greek Air Force was detained; he had access to information on military developments and movements of U.S. aviation in the region, including from the airbase in Larissa—one of the key logistical hubs for supporting U.S. operations in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.

It is believed that in 2024, Flessas underwent espionage training during an undeclared trip to the PRC. Subsequently, he carried out the recording, encryption, and transmission of confidential materials to a special device issued by his Chinese handler.