The US State Department expressed its disappointment over the aggressive rhetoric adopted by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan toward Greece, in a statement on Monday.

Greek press questions pertained to an Anadolu News Agency report quoting Erdogan as saying that he would not hesitate to deploy Tayfun ballistic missiles against Athens if, as he says, Greece continues to arm the Aegean Islands.

Responding, the State Department spokesperson said that at a time when unity is more necessary than ever among US allies, the United States expresses its regret over the escalation of provocative statements, and urged allies to avoid threats and such rhetoric.