"Ohi" Day: How Greece Said "No!" to Fascism

October 28 Cyprus, along with Greece, celebrates "Ohi" Day (Greek: Επέτειος του «Όχι») — a commemorative date symbolizing resistance to fascism.

Exactly 85 years ago, on October 28, 1940, the Italian government led by Benito Mussolini issued an ultimatum to Greece: allow Italian troops to pass through the country’s territory to conduct military operations in the Balkans. Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas responded with a single word — “Ohi!” (“No!”). Within a few hours, the Italian army attacked Greece but encountered fierce resistance.

Despite the numerical superiority of the enemy, Greek forces managed to halt the advance and launch a counterattack. By early November, the Italian army was pushed back, and its elite Alpine division "Julia" suffered heavy losses.

Cyprus, then under British administration, unconditionally supported Greece — a six-thousand-strong Cypriot regiment fought alongside the Allies against Italian forces.

In the spring of 1941, Greece was attacked by Nazi Germany. Despite heroic resistance, the country was occupied, but the struggle continued within the ranks of the Greek resistance movement.

Today, October 28 is a national holiday and an official day off in Cyprus. Parades, religious services, and commemorative ceremonies are held across the country, honoring the people who resolutely said "no" to fascism.