2022---russian-influence-on-the-monastic-republic-of-mount-athos -

: Following the February invasion, the Greek government and the Ecumenical Patriarchate (the spiritual authority over Athos) viewed the peninsula as a potential "listening post" for Russian intelligence.

The year 2022 marked a critical turning point for the , as the Russian invasion of Ukraine intensified scrutiny of Moscow’s long-standing religious, financial, and political influence on the Holy Mountain . Overview of Russian Presence : Following the February invasion, the Greek government

: The Greek Interior Ministry strengthened the police presence on the peninsula to monitor arrivals and departures, aiming to prevent monasteries from being used for "geopolitical games". Institutional Stance and Conflicts : Following the February invasion

: In April 2022, Greece expelled 12 Russian diplomats, citing activities on Mount Athos as a primary factor in the decision. Greece expelled 12 Russian diplomats