Alexis Tsipras criticizes Greek government over energy crisis

Alexis Tsipras, president of SYRIZA, has launched a sharp critique against the Mitsotakis government regarding the energy crisis and the rising cost of living in Greece. In a series of interviews, Tsipras argued that the government has failed to implement a concrete plan to address high fuel and natural gas prices, despite the predictable pressures caused by the war in Ukraine and instability in the Strait of Hormuz.

Tsipras highlighted the high costs of gasoline and heating oil, accusing the government of failing to intervene effectively. He also alleged the existence of ‘cartels’ in various economic sectors, including supermarkets and refineries, noting that refineries recorded significant profits recently. He suggested that the government has the tools to intervene, such as capping profit margins or adjusting VAT and excise taxes, but has chosen not to use them.

In response, government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis dismissed Tsipras's claims as an ‘old trick’ to gain votes, arguing that the current administration operates under much more favorable economic conditions than the previous government. Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis also refuted the allegations of a refinery cartel, characterizing the rhetoric as an attempt to exploit public frustration through economic envy.