Turkish Cypriot leader criticizes EU over Cyprus policy and Article 42.7

Unal Ustel, the leader of the Turkish Cypriot community, publicly criticized the European Union's informal summit, characterizing the bloc's approach to the Cyprus issue as biased and unfair. His comments followed recent efforts by Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides to invoke Article 42.7 of the Treaty on European Union, which involves mutual military assistance. Ustel alleged that the Republic of Cyprus is attempting to draw the EU into regional disputes and militarize the island through new defense agreements. He rejected accusations that Turkey or the Turkish Cypriot administration are responsible for regional instability. Instead, he argued that the Republic of Cyprus is engaging in a rapid military build-up. Ustel reiterated his commitment to a two-state solution model, which is supported by Turkey. He emphasized that the Turkish Cypriot side remains firm in its stance, viewing the issue as a defense of its sovereignty and security.