In an article for Politico today, Ivo Daalder, former U.S. ambassador to NATO, emphasises the strategic importance of Cyprus, arguing that the U.S. should start changing its perception of the island nation and start viewing it as a solution, not a problem.
He writes that historically, Cyprus has been perceived by the U.S. primarily as a conflict zone, a result of the island’s long-standing division and tensions between Greece and Turkey, both crucial U.S. allies.
However, as an EU member since 2004, Cyprus holds significant potential beyond its troubled past. “Cyprus,” he notes, “is an island of stability in an increasingly turbulent part of the world, providing a platform for political, economic, humanitarian and military reach at Europe’s intersection with the Middle East.”
Gaza war
He argues that this strategic importance was underscored on October 7 when Hamas launched its attack on Israel. In response, Cyprus emerged as a critical location for potential evacuations of Western citizens from Israel, Lebanon, and other areas. The Cypriot government provided its territory for U.S. military preparations and humanitarian operations.
Furthermore, President Christodoulides proposed a humanitarian corridor into Gaza, which Israel accepted, establishing inspection facilities on the island.
Initially, Daarder writes, international efforts to deliver aid focused on established routes from Egypt and Israel. However, as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsened, the need for alternative routes became evident.
Consequently, a corridor was established from Cyprus, with goods inspected on the island and shipped to Gaza and Ashdod, Israel, coordinated by the U.S. and French military.
Relationship with Russia
Beyond its humanitarian role, Cyprus has made significant strides in economic and institutional reforms since the 2012-2013 financial crisis, Daarder argues. He says that efforts to clean up its banking system and combat money laundering have distanced Cyprus from its former reputation as a haven for Russian money.
Collaboration with U.S. agencies has further strengthened these reforms. “The government in Nicosia has invited the FBI and U.S. Justice Department officials to help investigate money laundering and other criminal activities, opening its books, reforming its institutions and cooperating in FBI-instigated investigations — even of its own citizens.”
“Nicosia has also ended its long and cozy relationship with Moscow, taking a decisive turn toward the West — the U.S. in particular,” Daarder stresses.
Military cooperation
Although Cyprus is not a NATO member and faces obstacles due to potential Turkish vetoes, it has been pursuing stronger security and military ties with the U.S., Daarder notes. Recent developments include a bilateral security cooperation statement in 2018, the establishment of a Cypriot military attaché in Washington, and the lifting of a longstanding arms embargo.
He argues that the U.S. has begun to recognise the strategic value of Cyprus for military and humanitarian operations. There is potential for deeper cooperation, including modernising the Cypriot military and transferring its Russian-made artillery to Ukraine. However, access to the U.S. defence market remains limited due to the temporary nature of the lifted arms embargo.
A strategic partnership with Cyprus offers multiple benefits for the U.S. It could enhance relations with Israel, Egypt, and Palestine, counter Russian and Chinese influence in the eastern Mediterranean, and strengthen energy ties with regional partners. Additionally, it could improve trust between the U.S., EU, and NATO, potentially facilitating a resolution to the Cyprus conflict.
He writes “A strong U.S.-Cyprus partnership may well be the key to turning the Cyprus problem into the Cyprus solution”.
