Christodoulides’ insistence on Cyprus joining NATO is problematic and dangerous

 

6 March 2026, AKEL C.C. Press Office, Nicosia

In an interview with Greek television station ‘SKAI’, President Christodoulides chose to reiterate that he is preparing Cyprus’ accession to NATO. Mr. Christodoulides’ insistence on this issue is problematic and dangerous from every point of view.

First of all, there is the question of the democratic legitimacy of such a choice, given that Mr. Christodoulides not only failed to put it before the people when he sought their vote in the Presidential elections, but, on the contrary, he argued against NATO’s involvement on the Cyprus problem.

In essence, NATO membership does not address the issue of Cyprus’ security in relation to the principal threat it faces, which is the occupation and aggression of Turkey, a NATO member state. However, Cyprus’ accession to NATO would lead to the definitive breakdown of the Republic of Cyprus’s relations with permanent members of the UN Security Council, something our country cannot afford.

Finally, at this critical moment for our country and region, preparing to join an aggressive military alliance is tantamount to playing with fire.

AKEL calls on Mr. Christodoulides to consider the dangers and consequences of pursuing NATO membership. In any case, AKEL will oppose any plans and machinations for our country’s accession to NATO.

06.03.2026