Tear Gas and Shots Fired at Migrants trying to enter Greece, Locals Burn Migrant Welcoming Center
Greek officials have fired tear gas at migrants trying to cross the border into Greece from Turkey, and have fired shots at boats full of migrants trying to enter the country.
Greek border agents fire warning shots, and tear gas at the more than 150,000 refugees that are lining up at the border.
Locals on the Island of Lesbos burn down a UNCHR Migrant Reception Center.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced earlier this week he was opening up his borders to let the refugees in, stating in a televised message “It’s done, the gates are open. You will have your share of this burden now.”
He said his country, which has more than 3.5 million Syrian refugees, is unable to cope with a new wave and demands Europe’s support.
Greece has made it clear that their borders are closed, and that they view the massive influx of refugees as a security threat. Military forces have reacted in kind with slight force, using tear gas and water cannons as a deterant.
A stern warning from Greek officials said they would do “whatever it takes” to protect its borders.
Greece was the primary point of entry for asylum seekers into Europe during the 2015-2016 migrant crisis and tens of thousands remain in squalid conditions in crowded camps on the Aegean islands, according to Reuters.
Greek officials have accused Ankara of aiding and abetting the migrants, with deputy defense minister Alkiviadis Stefanis telling Skai TV “Yesterday there were 9,600 attempts to violate our borders, and all were dealt with successfully … not only are they not stopping them, but they are helping them.”
