Turkey Condemns U.S.-Cyprus Defence Co-operation Agreement

Turkey has condemned the newly signed roadmap for defence co-operation between the United States and the Republic of Cyprus. The agreement comes as the United Nations attempts to restart peace negotiations between Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities on the divided Mediterranean island. Turkey claims the U.S. stance threatens regional security.

Turkey has voiced strong disapproval of the recent defence co-operation agreement signed between the United States and the Republic of Cyprus. This development occurs amid ongoing United Nations efforts to revive stalled peace talks between Greek and Turkish Cypriots on the divided island.

The Turkish Foreign Ministry criticized the U.S. for undermining the security of Turkish Cypriots and compromising the United States' traditionally neutral position on the Cyprus issue. 'These steps ... make it more difficult to reach a just, lasting and sustainable settlement,' the ministry's statement said.

The deal, signed on Monday in Nicosia, was reaffirmed in a joint statement by the U.S. and Cypriot defence ministries emphasizing their commitment to addressing international security concerns. The island has been split since a 1974 Turkish invasion following a Greek-led coup, with failed peace talks last held in 2017.

(With inputs from agencies.)