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Livestock farmers protest against mass animal culling due to foot-and-mouth disease

On April 23, 2026, livestock farmers organized a protest at the Rizoelia roundabout to demand an end to mass animal culling caused by a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. Represented by Stella Petrou, the farmers argue for selective culling, citing European Regulation 2020/687, though veterinary authorities refute this interpretation. The outbreak has resulted in 102 cases and the culling of 57,000 animals, affecting over 10% of the livestock population across areas from Larnaca to western Nicosia. While farmers threatened to escalate protests if they do not receive a response from President Christodoulides by 14:00, they stated their intention was to inform the public rather than cause major disruption. Police spokesperson Byron Byronos confirmed that security measures are in place to ensure the protest does not interfere with the Cyprus EU Presidency activities. The Parliamentary Agriculture Committee is holding an emergency meeting to address compensation and disease control measures. Meanwhile, General Director of the Ministry of Agriculture, Andreas Grigoriou, stated that compensation rates are being finalized and urged farmers to implement strict biosecurity protocols.

Original Sources

FMD spreads to over 100 farms, third pig unit hit
Cyprus Mail · 21 April 2026, 18:32
Foot-and-mouth outbreak: Third pig farm infected
Sigmalive English · 21 April 2026, 16:41