Newsroom
By Elizabeth Georgiou
When police staged a mock terrorist attack at Ayia Napa Marina in November, it wasn’t just an exercise; it was a dress rehearsal for one of the biggest security challenges Cyprus has faced in years. The island is preparing to take over the European Union Council Presidency in the first half of 2026, and authorities say security planning is already at an advanced stage.
The anti-terror drill, part of the European HECTOR project, brought together fire crews, ambulances, port police, the air wing, and rapid response units to test coordination and response under pressure. Police spokesperson Vyronas Vyronas called the exercise a “particularly successful” demonstration of the force’s readiness.
“Some services may be on the front line, but the entire police force will be involved in its own way,” Vyronas said, highlighting the all-hands-on-deck approach.
Planning for every threat
Vyronas said the police have nearly completed preparations for the six-month EU Presidency, covering everything from security at high-profile meetings to participation in working groups. Threats are not only physical: cybersecurity, international risks, and the flow of political and technical missions to the island are all being factored into detailed plans.
“International threats, whether online or otherwise, have been taken into account. We’ve made our predictions and carried out exercises,” Vyronas said, stressing that the force has all operational tools needed to handle incidents.
Teamwork and lessons from the past
Cyprus’ police have established several working groups for the Presidency, including crime prevention and press coordination, with officers already collaborating with European authorities in Brussels.
The international landscape has shifted significantly since Cyprus last held the EU Presidency in 2012, Vyronas noted. Conflicts in Ukraine and Palestine, increased traffic from foreign residents, and heightened cyber threats have all required updated planning.
With months to go, police say the island is ready and that every drill, every working group, and every plan is aimed at keeping officials, visitors, and the public safe during the upcoming high-stakes presidency.
*Read the Greek version here.
