Farmers’ Fury Erupts in Greece Over EU Subsidy Delays

                                Protesting farmers push against riot police in Nikaia, near Larissa, Greece  

Greek farmers clashed with police on Sunday in central and northern regions of the country as anger mounted over the delayed payment of European Union agricultural subsidies. The protests, centered around Nikaia near Larissa, saw hundreds of farmers blocking highways with tractors and demanding immediate government action.

The unrest stems from an estimated €600 million shortfall in EU aid following a corruption scandal that has triggered investigations by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office. Authorities allege that some farmers falsified land and livestock ownership records to secure subsidies, leading to a freeze in payments while the probe continues.

Police responded with tear gas and barricades as demonstrators attempted to push through blockades. In Platykampos, scuffles broke out and at least one person was detained. Traffic disruptions spread across major junctions, including the E65 highway, as farmers vowed to escalate their protests until funds are released.

The demonstrations highlight the growing frustration in Greece’s agricultural sector, already burdened by soaring production costs and unresolved crises such as livestock disease outbreaks. Farmers’ unions have warned of nationwide roadblocks and port actions in the coming days, signaling that the standoff could intensify.

The conservative government faces mounting pressure to resolve the issue quickly, balancing the need to restore trust in subsidy distribution with the urgency of supporting farmers who rely on EU aid for survival.

In short: Greece’s farmers are demanding immediate payment of EU subsidies, clashing with police as corruption investigations stall funds. The protests are escalating into a nationwide movement that could challenge the government’s stability.