Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides has called for an “open and frank discussion with the British government” regarding the future of UK military bases on the island, describing them as a “colonial consequence”. Speaking at the European Council summit in Brussels on Thursday, he highlighted the responsibility towards the 10,000 Cypriot citizens living within the bases amid escalating Middle East tensions.
The demand follows a drone strike on RAF Akrotiri earlier this month, which raised security concerns. The Iranian-made drone, launched by Hezbollah in Lebanon, caused minimal damage and no casualties, but prompted the Ministry of Defence to temporarily relocate families from the base. Christodoulides said the Cypriot government has a “clear approach” on the bases’ future but declined to negotiate publicly.
Despite the criticism, Christodoulides acknowledged that cooperation between the UK and Cyprus is “extremely positive”. His remarks come as Defence Minister Al Carns insisted in the House of Commons that the bases’ future is “not in question”, citing strong defence ties. The Prime Minister’s spokesperson echoed this, noting that military cooperation has “never been closer” and emphasising the bases’ role in protecting British citizens and allies.
The British bases, established under the 1960 independence deal, serve as a key hub for UK operations in the Middle East. The debate adds pressure on Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who faces criticism over the Chagos Islands deal, which includes a leaseback of Diego Garcia base.
