Newsroom
Germany has assured Cyprus that it will stand ready to help if needed, as regional tensions in the Middle East ripple into the Eastern Mediterranean.
Speaking Tuesday in Nicosia after meeting with Cypriot Foreign Minister Konstantinos Kompos, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said Cyprus was facing “an unprecedented situation” and praised the country for its calm, measured response. “If Cyprus really needs something specific and is concerned about its security, Germany will be here,” Wadephul said, calling the Mediterranean island “an important bridge between Europe and the Middle East.”
Kompos stressed that Cyprus is committed to diplomacy and peace, noting the island’s role as EU Council president and its geographic position. He highlighted ongoing efforts to protect citizens, including repatriating nationals from danger zones, and praised European partners who have already sent support. More than 99% of Cypriot citizens trapped abroad have returned home, he said, while 35 German nationals were among those evacuated.
Wadephul noted that Europe faces multiple crises, including the Middle East conflict and the war in Ukraine, but emphasized Berlin’s readiness to step in if Cyprus requested additional military support. “Burden sharing is crucial, and security must be perceived as a common responsibility of all of us,” he said.
Both ministers highlighted the economic and strategic stakes of the crisis, from energy prices to shipping routes, and called for diplomacy to reduce tensions. Wadephul underlined Germany’s commitment to the EU mutual assistance clause, while Kompos stressed Cyprus’ continued focus on peace and humanitarian operations.
“Cyprus is not a war zone,” Kompos said, “but we must remain prepared and coordinate with partners to protect our people, residents, and visitors.”
