Nicosia: Cyprus’ unwavering support for Ukraine and concerns over peace negotiations were expressed by members of the House Standing Committee on Foreign and European Affairs during a meeting in Nicosia with a delegation from the Ukraine-Cyprus Friendship Group of the Ukrainian Parliament.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Cypriot MPs highlighted that the outcome of negotiations on Ukraine could set a precedent that Cyprus, as a nation that has experienced invasion and ongoing occupation, might have to confront in the future. The head of the Ukrainian delegation, Oleksandr Tkachenko, appreciated Cyprus’ steadfast partnership with Ukraine.
The announcement stated that Committee Chairman and President of the Cyprus-Ukraine Friendship Group, Harris Georgiades, along with Vice Chairman Marios Mavrides and other members, met with the Ukrainian delegation during their two-day visit to Cyprus. The Ukrainian delegation included President of the Friendship Group Oleksandr Tkachenko and members Valerii Dubil, Volodymyr Kozak, Valerii Bozhyk, Ihor Murdii, and Roman Babiy.
Georgiades, welcoming the delegation, referred to the strengthened ties between Cyprus and Ukraine due to Ukraine’s recent challenges. He emphasized that Cyprus stood by Ukraine from the onset of the Russian attack, providing political support by aligning with EU sanctions against Russia and offering humanitarian aid by accepting Ukrainian refugees.
He underlined that Cyprus understands the impact of foreign invasion and occupation, having experienced it since 1974. Georgiades noted that Cyprus comprehends what it means to be targeted by a neighboring country through military threats, aiming to undermine sovereignty.
Tkachenko expressed gratitude for Cyprus’ consistent support, noting that the visit reaffirmed the strong ties of friendship and cooperation between the two countries. He appreciated Cyprus’ immediate solidarity with Ukraine and highlighted the significance of Cyprus’ EU Council Presidency in 2026 for Ukraine’s EU membership aspirations.
Referring to the US peace proposal, Tkachenko emphasized Ukraine’s desire for peace but noted the harsh terms from Russia, making a just solution challenging. He expressed hope for positive outcomes from President Zelenskyy’s upcoming visit to Washington.
During the discussion, Cypriot MPs emphasized support for Ukraine’s independence and sovereignty while criticizing Turkey’s violation of similar principles concerning Cyprus. They highlighted the economic impact of aligning with EU sanctions against Russia but stressed Cyprus’ commitment to its European obligations. They also criticized Turkey’s neutral stance on the Ukraine issue, arguing it benefits economically from applying no sanctions against Russia.
The Cypriot MPs reiterated full support for Ukraine and expressed concern about the peace negotiations’ outcome, noting the potential future implications for Cyprus. They emphasized efforts to safeguard and strengthen Ukraine’s European perspective during Cyprus’ upcoming EU Council Presidency.