Farmers protest in Nicosia over foot-and-mouth disease culling

On April 19, 2026, approximately 200 farmers held a protest in Nicosia to oppose the government's management of a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak and the associated mass culling of livestock. Protesters gathered at the GSP stadium, marched to the Ministry of Agriculture, and later blocked the road at the 'Kalispera' traffic lights. The farmers submitted a memorandum of their grievances to the Director of Veterinary Services, Christodoulos Pipis, and some reports state it was also addressed to the President and the Minister of Agriculture. Demonstrators raised concerns regarding the methods of euthanasia, specifically the use of gas in containers, and questioned the necessity of culling entire herds when only a small percentage of animals tested positive. Additionally, participants alleged that veterinary services previously allowed the transfer of animals from infected areas, contributing to the disease's spread. The protest concluded peacefully, and road traffic in the area was restored by police. Farmers have threatened further action in Rizolia if their demands for ending mass culling are not addressed by Monday.