**Brussels, Belgium** – In a significant diplomatic manoeuvre, Cyprus and Greece are actively advocating for a new stipulation within the European Council’s upcoming discussions to preclude Turkey from benefiting from funds earmarked for Ukraine’s defence. The proposal, spearheaded by President Nikos Christodoulides and Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, aims to ensure that financial assistance directed towards bolstering Ukraine’s security primarily flows through the European Defence Industry or from third countries not posing a demonstrable security threat to European Union member states.
The impending European Council meeting, scheduled for Thursday, is expected to centre on crucial economic support mechanisms for Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict. However, Athens and Nicosia are intent on introducing a critical amendment that would safeguard the integrity of these funds, preventing their potential diversion to nations perceived as antagonists or occupiers of European territory. President Christodoulides articulated this stance emphatically, stating, "We want to ensure something discussed at the European People’s Party: any economic aid from the European Union, especially for matters of Ukraine’s defence and security, cannot be spent in countries that have European territory under occupation or threaten EU member states." This assertion directly targets Turkey’s current geopolitical positioning and its territorial disputes with EU members.
Furthermore, Greece intends to champion a policy that ensures Ukraine's arms procurement decisions remain aligned with the specific national security priorities of individual EU member states. This nuanced approach seeks to prevent a one-size-fits-all procurement strategy, allowing for the consideration of each nation's unique defence requirements and strategic interests.
Beyond the immediate defence funding debate, the Cypriot delegation also registered positive developments concerning other critical issues. President Christodoulides expressed considerable satisfaction with the Danish Presidency’s conclusions on EU enlargement, particularly commending the appointment of Johannes Hahn and the Union’s proactive role in fostering a renewed dialogue. European Council conclusions are reportedly set to incorporate references to the foundational principles for resolving the long-standing Cyprus issue, alongside reiterations of United Nations resolutions pertaining to the enclosed district of Varosha. This inclusion is viewed as a significant step towards revitalising efforts to find a lasting solution.
In parallel, President Christodoulides welcomed a missive from the European Commission President concerning migration. The letter acknowledged Cyprus's substantial progress in achieving full Schengen membership and highlighted its effective strategies for managing migratory flows. The Cypriot leader proudly noted the tangible results of these policies, stating, "Our country has increased returns by over 60%, whilst simultaneously reducing inflows by more than 80%." This advanced migration management model is increasingly being recognised as a benchmark for other member states grappling with similar challenges.
The collective push by Cyprus and Greece to influence the allocation of Ukraine's defence funding underscores a broader strategic objective: to ensure that EU solidarity does not inadvertently benefit those perceived as destabilising forces within the European neighbourhood. The potential exclusion of Turkey from this funding stream could have significant ramifications for Ankara's regional influence and its relationship with the EU, while simultaneously reinforcing the European Defence Industry and potentially accelerating the quest for a resolution to the Cyprus conflict.