Turkey Warns US Against Steps That Could Undermine Trust in Cyprus

Turkey’s Foreign Ministry said the Greek Cypriot side had been increasing pressure on the Turkish Cypriot people in all areas and harming regional stability through intensive arms build-up, stressing that the security of the Turkish Cypriot people would be guaranteed under all circumstances.

Full statement by the Turkish Foreign Ministry:

“It has been announced that the decision by the United States to lift its arms embargo on the Republic of Cyprus has been extended for another year, until September 30, 2027. We share the views expressed in the statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) on this matter.

“At a time when the Greek Cypriot side is increasing pressure in all areas on the Turkish Cypriot people, who are joint owners of the island, and undermining regional stability through intensive arms build-up, we once again emphasize that steps that could further erode trust between the two sides on the island should be avoided.

“Motherland and guarantor Turkey will continue to defend the legitimate rights and interests of the Turkish Cypriot people while ensuring their security under all circumstances, and will remain determined in its efforts to ensure that the TRNC takes its rightful place in the international community.”