EU leaders vow to support Cyprus in talks over future of British bases

EU leaders have pledged support for Cyprus as it seeks discussions with the UK regarding the future of British bases on the island. Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides aims for an "open and frank discussion" with the UK government about the bases, which he describes as a "colonial consequence," especially given rising Middle East tensions. Cyprus fears the bases, used by the UK for training and regional operations, make the island a target, highlighted by a recent drone attack on RAF Akrotiri. The EU Council acknowledged Cyprus's intention to discuss the bases with the UK and offered assistance. Cyprus, the EU's easternmost member, seeks stronger support from the UK amid regional instability.

Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides stated that the UK's military bases on Cyprus are a "colonial consequence" and require future discussion. The UK maintains sovereignty over bases at Akrotiri and Dhekelia since Cyprus's independence in 1960. Recently, RAF Akrotiri was targeted by drones, believed to be fired from Lebanon by Hezbollah, leading to protests and concerns that the bases make Cyprus a target. While the bases haven't been used for US operations against Iran, the UK has granted the US permission for specific defensive operations. Christodoulides emphasized the responsibility for the 10,000 Cypriot citizens within the bases and acknowledged the complexity of any negotiations due to the multiple parties involved in the founding agreements.