Greek Cypriot leader attacks Türkiye, urges EU to ‘take action’

The leader of the Greek Cypriot administration, Nikos Christodoulides, launched a scathing attack on Türkiye during a speech to the Greek parliament, calling on European and international bodies to intervene, as Israel’s project to turn Cyprus into a “satellite state” in the Eastern Mediterranean gains momentum.

‘Biggest crime of post-war Europe’

Christodoulides claimed that Türkiye continues to occupy 37% of the island, alleging that “one of the biggest crimes of the post-war European era is being committed.” He said: “For 52 years, Türkiye has been violating international and European law. Cyprus is being occupied, colonized, and fundamental human rights are being violated.” He also rejected a two-state solution, stating: “A two-state solution cannot exist even as a thought. We will never accept the legitimization of illegality.”

Turkish Cypriots reject Greek Cypriot claims

Christodoulides called for the reunification of the island under a federal model, a position long rejected by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), which advocates for a two-state solution based on equal sovereignty. His remarks come as Türkiye has submitted its “Blue Homeland” doctrine to parliament for legislation, asserting its maritime rights in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Israel’s growing footprint in Cyprus

The Greek Cypriot leader has increasingly aligned with Israel and Greece. In December, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, along with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Christodoulides, held a joint press conference targeting Türkiye. Netanyahu declared: “For those who dream of building empires over our lands, forget it. That will not happen.” Following that alignment, Israel’s presence in Cyprus has expanded, with reports last week that Israeli entities purchased a long-abandoned village in the south, raising concerns among local communities. Türkiye has repeatedly warned against any steps that threaten the rights and security of Turkish Cypriots and has vowed to protect their interests in the Eastern Mediterranean.