Greek farmers blocked major highways in northern Greece, including key routes near the town of Siatista, as part of a nationwide protest over delayed European Union subsidy payments and opposition to the EU–Mercosur trade agreement. Using tractors, protesters halted freight transport while allowing passenger vehicles and buses to pass. Farmers argue that cheaper imports from Mercosur countries and Ukraine are entering the EU without meeting the same environmental and plant-protection standards required of European producers, making local products less competitive. They also accuse Greek and EU authorities of imposing costly regulations while failing to ensure fair trade conditions. The protests come amid an investigation into alleged fraud involving EU agricultural subsidies, with payments temporarily reduced while claims are verified. Farmers warn that further action, including targeted freight blockades, may follow as pressure mounts on both national and EU leaders.
