Alpha News

Ukraine Issue a Trap for the Cypriot Presidency

Published January 3, 2026, 19:19

Cyprus is preparing to assume the Presidency of the European Union at a critical moment, with the Ukrainian issue being the biggest challenge. International media report that the EU must prove whether it can act as a strategic force or remain hostage to unresolved conflicts. Foreign Minister Konstantinos Kombos discussed with his Ukrainian counterpart the process of Ukraine's accession to the EU and the priorities of the Cypriot Presidency. However, the Ukrainian issue poses a challenge for Nicosia, as Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to seek European support again, without having referred to the Turkish occupation. It raises questions about the stance of the Cypriot Presidency towards a leader who sees Erdogan as his savior. There is fear that Cyprus will be in a difficult position if it supports a solution that legitimizes the occupation of Ukrainian territories. Zelensky has requested a quadrilateral meeting with Ursula von der Leyen, Antonio Costa and Nikos Christodoulides, while he will inform the EU about his meeting with Donald Trump. At the same time, Erdogan will have a telephone conversation with Trump, where issues such as Russia, Ukraine and Palestine will be discussed. Turkey appears to be gaining ground in Washington and Brussels, leading Turkish media to conclude that the Cypriot Presidency will face difficulties if it attempts to confront Turkey. The situation is considered very favorable for Turkey, especially in relation to the dispute between Ukraine and Russia.