EU leaders have pledged to support Cyprus in pursuing an open discussion with the UK over the future of British military bases on the island, which have become targets amid the Middle East crisis. The Akrotiri and Dhekelia bases, covering 256 square kilometres, remained UK sovereign territory after Cyprus gained independence in 1960.
Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides said he wanted 'an open and frank discussion with the British government' regarding the bases, describing them as 'a colonial consequence'. He declined to specify whether he sought their removal, stating Cyprus had 'a clear approach' and would not negotiate publicly.
The call for talks follows an incident on 2 March when an unmanned drone, believed to have been launched by Iranian proxy Hezbollah from Lebanon, crashed into the runway at RAF Akrotiri. Two other drones were intercepted the next day heading towards the base. Cyprus has grown increasingly concerned that the bases make it a de facto target for Iran.
At an EU summit on Thursday, leaders endorsed a text acknowledging Cyprus's intention to initiate discussions with the UK and offering EU assistance. The language, a victory for Cyprus which holds the EU's rotating presidency, had not appeared in earlier drafts. France has already deployed air defence systems, a frigate, and the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle in response to Cyprus's request for military assistance.
