As Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis plans to introduce stricter gun control measures following a violent shootout between feuding families on Crete, a senior government official praised the “American model” of gun possession.
Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis, also a vice president of the ruling New Democracy party, expressed his admiration for the American approach where citizens can “defend their freedom.”
“I like the American model. Generally, I like it for people to be ready to fight and to be able to defend their freedom. And freedom needs to be defended.”
He clarified that his views do not represent the official government stance, stating, “We’re not a Stalinist party at New Democracy, thankfully, and we can have our own personal opinions.”
Reflecting on the deadly violence in the Cretan village of Vorizia, where two people died last Saturday, Georgiadis expressed his surprise that parts of Greece remain “stuck in the 19th century.” He identified illegal firearms as the main driver behind gun-related violence.
The tragic feud in Vorizia, Iraklio, is one among several recent events in Greece that have intensified debate over existing gun laws and control mechanisms.
Author's summary: A government minister endorses individual gun rights for self-defense amid plans for tougher gun regulations following lethal family feuds in Crete, while condemning illegal weapons.