"Greek farmers protesting delayed EU subsidy payments opened the barriers at the Makrychori toll station near Larissa on Sunday, allowing drivers to pass through for free as nationwide mobilisations continued to escalate. Footage showed demonstrators from the Nikaia blockade controlling the toll gates, waving motorists through while handing out organic farm products in a symbolic gesture of solidarity with daily commuters. “We are not intimidated by the threats, repression, and violence,” said Theodosis Georgadakis, president of the United Federation of Agricultural Associations of Magnesia. “The government would do well to respond to our demands, because as you can see, we have escalated our actions.” Farmers stressed that unity remains strong after more than a month of protests. “We are as strong as ever [...] We will continue until the just demands of farmers, breeders, beekeepers, and fishermen are met,” Georgadakis said, warning that Greece’s primary production sector is at risk if the government fails to act. The protests are driven by delays in EU Common Agricultural Policy subsidy payments, which authorities say were slowed amid an investigation into alleged fraud involving falsified land and livestock declarations. Officials estimate false claims could exceed 30 million euros. Deputy Minister of Rural Development and Food Christos Kellas said payments were reduced while claims are verified, a move farmers reject as collective punishment. Protest leaders warned the next phase of mobilisations could include targeted blockades of freight transport while allowing private citizens to move freely. The demonstrations also come against the backdrop of the proposed EU-Mercosur trade agreement, submitted by the European Commission earlier this year. Farmers across Europe oppose the deal, arguing it would expose them to unfair competition from lower-standard agricultural imports from South America."