TRNC FM: Visit of US Guided Missile Destroyer to Limassol Shows Support

The visit was purportedly conducted to "ensure freedom of navigation in the Eastern Mediterranean" and "support crisis management in the region." However, the Foreign Ministry emphasized that it is part of the increasing "strategic partnership" between the US and Southern Cyprus, highlighting the military support the US is providing to Southern Cyprus.

The ministry's statement also noted that the USS San Juan, a US Navy submarine, has made several "port visits" to Southern Cyprus' ports over the past two years. The continued deployment of US Navy warships to the island, despite calls and warnings, is seen as escalating tensions rather than serving any constructive purpose.

Lifting of the Arms Embargo

The US lifted its arms embargo on Southern Cyprus completely in 2022. Subsequently, on August 18, 2023, the US State Department extended this decision for another year starting October 1, 2023. The Foreign Ministry's statement underlined that with the support from the US, Southern Cyprus has continued its aggressive stance.

Threat to the TRNC

The statement also asserted that the military cooperation between the US and Southern Cyprus is perceived by Southern Cyprus as a means to threaten the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). The Foreign Ministry declared, “In response to this situation, we would like to express that as the TRNC, we will not hesitate to take all necessary steps in cooperation with our Motherland Turkey to ensure the security of the Turkish Cypriot people.”