Cyprus Deputy Minister on EU Presidency, Russian Assets, and Gaza Plan

Cyprus's EU Presidency and Ukraine Support

• 🇨🇾 Cyprus, preparing for its EU presidency in January 2026, pledges unequivocal and steadfast support to Ukraine on all fronts: political, economic, and humanitarian.
• 🇪🇺 The deputy minister emphasizes that supporting Ukraine is a "top priority" and a "litmus test" for the European Union, crucial for European security architecture and autonomy.
• ⚖️ Cyprus supports new sanctions against Russia, implementation, and combating sanction circumvention, which undermines efforts and Ukraine's accession negotiations.

Addressing Russian Assets and Sanctions Loopholes

• 💰 Cyprus has frozen €1.2 billion in Russian assets and is discussing proposals for using frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine, emphasizing the need for legally sound and economically viable measures.
• 🚢 The issue of the "Russian shadow fleet" circumventing oil embargos is a significant concern, with Cyprus committed to addressing these loopholes and becoming more effective in combating circumvention.
• 📈 Cyprus asserts it has "completely turned the page" on Russian money flowing through the country, with independent reports verifying this shift and a strong presence of American companies now in Cyprus.

Cyprus's Maritime Corridor and Gaza Plan

• 🚢 Cyprus proposed the Cyprus Maritime Corridor as a humanitarian lifeline to Gaza, supported by the EU and regional partners, which has delivered a significant portion of humanitarian aid.
• 🕊️ Cyprus has put forward a six-point plan to facilitate the implementation of a broader plan for Gaza, focusing on humanitarian assistance, reconstruction, and security, aiming to increase the EU's footprint in the region.

Cyprus Reunification Prospects

• 🤝 The election of a new, pro-European Turkish Cypriot leader is viewed as a positive development, offering readiness to resume negotiations for a bizonal, bicommunal federation based on UN resolutions.
• 🇪🇺 The EU is ready to support progress on the Cyprus question, which is seen as crucial for regional stability and EU-Turkey relations.