Government confirms mandatory culling of livestock due to foot and mouth disease

Veterinary services confirmed on April 20, 2026, that the total culling of animals in farms affected by foot and mouth disease remains a non-negotiable legal obligation under EU Regulation 2020/687. Officials dismissed requests from livestock farmers to halt mass culling in favor of selective culling, stating that as a category A disease, total depopulation is required to protect public interest. While some farmers protested and threatened to block the Rizoelia roundabout, authorities maintained that protocols were followed correctly in areas like Pergamos and Pyla. Veterinary officer Sotiria Georgiadou stated that new scientific data indicates the virus may have circulated for at least 15 days before the first official cases were recorded. Regarding economic impact, the government reported that a 28 million euro financial package has been approved for compensation, with payments ongoing since March. Farmers whose animals were culled before Easter have received advances, while others are scheduled for compensation in April. The state is also evaluating methods for restoring the livestock population.