Strikes and demonstrations are set to occur in Greece on February 28, 2025, marking the two-year anniversary of the Tempi train disaster. The U.S. Mission in Greece has issued a demonstration alert for Athens, Thessaloniki, and other locations across the country.
The Federations of Public and Private Sector Employees have announced their participation in a 24-hour general strike on that day. Strikes will affect various sectors including taxis from 10:00 to 13:00, airport air traffic controllers participating in a nationwide strike leading to flight cancellations by Aegean Airlines and Olympic Airlines, trains halting operations for the entire day, as well as ferry and boat employees.
Demonstrations are planned at Syntagma Square in Athens and at the Venizelos Statue on Egnatia Street in Thessaloniki at 11:00 a.m. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid these areas due to potential violence during demonstrations. In previous years, some protests have escalated into violence resulting in property damage with police possibly using tear gas if necessary.
U.S. citizens should "avoid areas of demonstrations" and "exercise greater caution around universities," Hellenic Train offices, city squares, government buildings or any other common protest sites.
The public is encouraged to monitor www.apergia.gr as well as local media for updates regarding strikes and demonstrations.
For assistance or further information:
- U.S. Embassy Athens can be reached at +(30) 210-721-2951 or via email at AthensAmericanCitizenServices@state.gov.
- U.S. Consulate General Thessaloniki is available at +(30) 2310-376-300.
- State Department – Consular Affairs can be contacted at (888) 407-4747 or (202) 501-4444.
Additionally, individuals can enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security updates.