Newsroom
In recent years, Cyprus and the United States have significantly strengthened their ties, with Joe Biden's administration taking bold steps to solidify the relationship. However, as Donald Trump prepares to return to the presidency in January 2025, many are wondering whether this progress will hold or falter under the weight of his unpredictable policies and his known affinity for Turkey.
Biden’s “Gifts” to Cyprus
According to an article by Yiannis Ioannou, President Biden has been instrumental in deepening the partnership between Cyprus and the U.S. This effort culminated in the Republic of Cyprus formally joining three major U.S. defense cooperation programs last week: Foreign Military Sales, Excess Defense Articles, and Title 10 security assistance. These programs pave the way for the modernization of Cyprus' National Guard, aligning it with NATO standards. While the move represents a leap forward for Cyprus, it’s part of a broader U.S. strategy to enhance the role of Eastern Mediterranean allies amidst growing regional instability.
The relationship has been nurtured for years, dating back to Biden's time as vice president under Barack Obama. Biden's 2014 visit to Nicosia and subsequent initiatives, such as lifting the decades-long U.S. arms embargo on Cyprus, have been key milestones. These efforts have not only cemented Cyprus as a vital player in the Eastern Mediterranean but also underscored Washington's recognition of the island’s strategic value in a region increasingly marked by crises, from Ukraine to Gaza.
Trump’s Return Brings Uncertainty
While the Biden administration has strengthened U.S.-Cyprus ties, Donald Trump’s return to power poses significant challenges. Trump’s close relationship with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and his past praise of Ankara have raised concerns in Nicosia about how his foreign policy may shift. Cyprus has long relied on U.S. support to counterbalance Turkey’s influence in the region, especially in matters related to the unresolved Cyprus problem and territorial disputes.
Nicosia fears that Trump, who often operates outside conventional diplomatic norms, might deprioritize the Cyprus issue or align more closely with Turkey. The upcoming international conference on the Cyprus problem in March 2025, which many see as a last chance for a solution, will serve as an early test of Trump’s stance.
Broader Implications for the Region
Trump’s return comes at a time when the Eastern Mediterranean is at a crossroads. The fall of the Assad regime in Syria, the ongoing war in Gaza, and the fallout from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine have created a volatile environment. Cyprus, situated at the center of these crises, has sought to carve out a role as a mediator and regional stabilizer.
However, Trump's foreign policy could derail these efforts. For example, Biden’s defense programs have given Cyprus unprecedented access to U.S. military resources, but Trump’s approach might leave these initiatives in limbo or deprioritize Cyprus in favor of broader realpolitik goals.
What’s Next for Cyprus?
Cyprus must tread carefully in the coming months. While the Biden administration’s moves have elevated its regional and international standing, Nicosia must brace for a potential shift in U.S. policy under Trump.
Cyprus will likely intensify its lobbying efforts in Washington, relying on the Greek-American community and bipartisan support in Congress to keep the Cyprus issue on the U.S. foreign policy agenda. Meanwhile, the Cypriot government must also navigate the delicate balance between benefiting from U.S. defense programs and maintaining its autonomy, particularly as it seeks to modernize its military.
As Cyprus prepares for the challenges of Trump’s presidency, one thing is clear: the island nation has come a long way in its relationship with the United States. But sustaining this progress in the face of uncertainty will require diplomatic agility and a clear-eyed strategy for dealing with both Washington and Ankara.
*To read more of Yiannis Ioannou's'article and gain full access to in-depth reports (in Greek), subscribe now to Kathimerini's print edition and stay informed with comprehensive coverage on this and more!
