The Republic of Cyprus remains in continuous contact with the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) following a reported violation of the buffer zone north of Pyla, government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said on Wednesday.
In a written statement, Letymbiotis said occupation forces had entered the buffer zone in the Plati area, describing the move as a breach of the established status quo and international law, and warning it appeared aimed at creating new faits accomplis on the ground.
He said the government was acting in full adherence to international law and had been in communication with UNFICYP from the outset, supporting efforts to de-escalate the situation.
The spokesman also pointed to the UN’s response, noting that UNFICYP had reacted immediately and publicly to the incident, and expressed the expectation that the peacekeeping force would continue taking all necessary measures to prevent further escalation.
The developments come amid heightened tension in the buffer zone around Pyla, where UN peacekeepers have increased patrols and maintained a visible presence following what they described as unauthorised activity in the area.
UN officials said the situation remains under close monitoring, with peacekeeping vehicles stationed along the Green Line and efforts focused on maintaining calm and preventing further incidents.
The incident is understood to have been triggered by a dispute over access for Republic of Cyprus veterinary services to livestock farms in the buffer zone, with occupation forces moving to block inspections and subsequently increasing their presence in the area.
UNFICYP has reiterated that any unauthorised entry or activity within the buffer zone constitutes a violation of its mandate and stressed that maintaining stability in the area remains its highest priority.
The government has described the developments as serious violations that risk increasing tensions and undermining ongoing efforts to restore calm.
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