Nicosia: The United Nations Secretary-General has recommended that the mandate of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) be extended for an additional year, until January 31, 2027. In his report, the Secretary-General expressed strong concern over ongoing violations in and around the buffer zone and reiterated his worries about the situation in the fenced-off area of Varosha.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Secretary-General's observations point to a cautious momentum in the Cyprus peace process, attributed to the new Turkish Cypriot leader's assumption of office and increased engagement between the two leaders. This development has rekindled hope for advancing the Cyprus issue. However, despite the improved atmosphere, there has been a lack of substantive progress on de-escalation, with no advancements in reversing the military build-up along the ceasefire lines.
The Secretary-General highlighted violations following the construction of military installations in and around the buffer zone, which aim to alter the military status quo permanently. Although there was a slight slowdown in installing surveillance systems, these developments remain a serious concern due to their potential destabilizing effect. The National Guard and Turkish Forces have both increased their surveillance capabilities, adding to the complexity of the situation.
UNFICYP's role in maintaining stability is underscored, with the Secretary-General emphasizing the Mission's essential role in de-escalating tensions and preserving the buffer zone's integrity. However, the effectiveness of UNFICYP remains limited without full cooperation from both sides. The Secretary-General also noted the stalemate over the Pyla plateau and unilateral actions that risk reigniting tensions, particularly in Varosha.
The report covered the period from June 12 to December 15, 2025, noting increased political engagement alongside persistent militarization trends. Despite enhanced dialogue and new confidence-building measures, military violations and restrictions on UNFICYP's freedom of movement continue to pose challenges. The UN's fiscal crisis has also impacted the Mission's operations, leading to personnel reductions and delayed intercommunal activities.
The Secretary-General's report documented 146 military violations by November 2025, primarily attributed to Turkish Forces. Surveillance systems along the buffer zone continue to be a major concern for UNFICYP. In Varosha, no measures have been taken to reverse actions since 2020, with restrictions on UNFICYP's access remaining significant.
The report also detailed humanitarian efforts, facilitation of intercommunal activities, and the work of the Committee on Missing Persons. Despite challenges, UNFICYP continues to enforce the UN's zero-tolerance policy on misconduct, with no allegations of sexual exploitation or abuse received during the reporting period.