Cyprus addresses foot-and-mouth disease outbreak amid cull controversy

As of March 9, 2026, health authorities in Cyprus have confirmed 34 livestock units affected by foot-and-mouth disease, all within the Larnaca district. The total number of culled animals stands at 14,166, comprising 269 cattle and 13,897 sheep and goats. Veterinary officials, including Sotiria Georgiadou, report that nationwide vaccination efforts are underway with over 238,000 total doses distributed, while a delivery of swine vaccines from Germany is being coordinated. Due to public outcry and pressure from producer groups, President Nikos Christodoulides has initiated diplomatic outreach to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The government is seeking to replace mandatory mass culling protocols with alternative measures like vaccination, despite initial resistance from the European Commission regarding existing safety directives. Legal action has been taken against individuals who attempted to obstruct culling procedures or circulated unauthorized videos of the process. Officials emphasize that all culling methods comply with veterinary legislation while the government works to support the affected primary sector. Future high-level discussions with Brussels are expected to define the next steps in crisis management.