Türkiye condemns US arms embargo lift on Greek Cyprus

Türkiye condemns a “grave mistake” by the U.S. for extending the arms embargo lift on the Greek Cypriot Administration for another year. The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticizes this decision, warning it could spark an arms race on the island and destabilize regional balances.

In a written statement, the Ministry highlighted that the U.S. first lifted the embargo in September 2020, expanded it in 2022, and is set to continue this policy until October 1, 2024.

“This grave mistake would lead to an arms race on the island and undermine the delicate balances in the region,” statement added.

“In the face of the increasing armament activities of the Greek Cypriot Administration, we believe that the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) will take all necessary measures to increase its defense and deterrence capability,” the statement added.

The Biden administration extended its decision to lift the embargo on Saturday.