Livestock farmers protest mass animal culls amid foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in Cyprus
Farmers in Cyprus have held prolonged protests, blocking the Rizoelia roundabout and access to the Larnaca port, to demand an immediate halt to the mass culling of livestock caused by a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. On April 24, 2026, representatives held a meeting with the Minister of Agriculture, Maria Panayiotou, to discuss compensation, where officials indicated that compensation amounts will be increased. The Veterinary Services maintain that culling is a necessary measure under EU regulations to contain the virus. Authorities have issued eight administrative fines totaling 45,000 euros for transport violations, while six further cases have been referred to the police. Farmers are now seeking a formal meeting with President Nikos Christodoulides to address their concerns, stating that if their demands for a halt to culling are not met, they will escalate their actions. Police management of the protests drew criticism after roadblocks caused significant traffic chaos and delays during an informal EU summit in Ayia Napa. Meanwhile, officials emphasize that control measures, including strict movement restrictions, are essential for animal health.