ELAM Slams Turkish F-16 Deployment, Claims ‘Violation of Sovereignty’

According to reports in Politis, Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides criticized the deployment of Turkish General Dynamics F‑16 Fighting Falcon jets to Ercan, suggesting the move was a response to Europe’s message that “the security of Cyprus is also the security of Europe.”

Christodoulides said that regardless of Turkey’s actions or the military equipment it brings to the island, it “remains an occupying force in Cyprus.”

Meanwhile, the far-right Greek Cypriot party National Popular Front (ELAM) condemned the deployment, claiming that northern Cyprus is territory of the “Republic of Cyprus” and that the move constitutes a violation of sovereignty.

In a written statement, ELAM called for the issue to be immediately raised with the United Nations, the European Commission, and the European Union. The party also argued that the defense and security of the “Republic of Cyprus” should be strengthened through the permanent presence of Greek air and naval forces.

Greek Cypriot newspaper Fileleftheros and daily Alithia also reported on the development, highlighting reactions from the Greek Cypriot administration and political parties regarding the arrival of the Turkish jets at Ercan.