Cypriot livestock farmers protest against foot-and-mouth disease culling

On Sunday, livestock farmers in Cyprus staged protests in Nicosia to oppose mass culling of animals due to a recent foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. Demonstrators gathered at the GSP stadium and marched to the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment before blocking the intersection of Limassol and Athalassa avenues for a short period. Participants submitted a formal memorandum to the Director of Veterinary Services, Christodoulos Pipis, demanding an immediate end to the culling of healthy animals and a clear, fair compensation framework. Farmers reported significant financial distress, noting that current compensation offers, such as 113 euros per animal, are insufficient compared to the estimated 600 euros needed to raise an animal. Complaints were also raised regarding inadequate notification, the handling of infected versus healthy livestock, and the lack of consistent measures in occupied areas. The Animal Party of Cyprus expressed concern over the management of the crisis, calling for more sustainable and ethical methods. Authorities restored traffic flow shortly after the protest, though farmers have threatened further actions at airports and ports if their demands remain unaddressed.