Russia and Cyprus sign defense and naval cooperation agreements

During a visit to Moscow by the President of Cyprus, Nicos Anastasiades, 11 bilateral agreements were signed, including a renewal of the defense cooperation pact. The agreement facilitates technical support and maintenance for Russian military equipment already present on the island, as well as cooperation in naval matters. It allows the Russian military limited use of Cypriot facilities, specifically the port of Limassol, for humanitarian operations, emergency situations, or missions like anti-piracy efforts. The Cypriot Foreign Minister, Ioannis Kasoulides, explicitly denied reports that the deal involves the creation of permanent Russian military bases. He stated that the agreement is a continuation of long-standing arrangements, necessitated by the arms embargo placed on Cyprus by other nations. The move has drawn criticism from the United Kingdom and some other European countries. Russian officials confirmed that the agreements do not involve a permanent military presence or staff stationed on the island.