Spain and Poland withdraw from joint military exercise

Source: Kathimerini

In a surprising turn of events, Spain and Poland have decided to withdraw from a joint military exercise involving Turkey and the Pseudo- state. This decision comes after the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus made diplomatic efforts to address concerns surrounding the exercise.

The military exercise, titled 'Phoenix of Anatolia - 2023,' was being hosted by Turkey. The Foreign Ministry of Cyprus emphasized that Turkey had been systematically and unilaterally attempting to include the illegal breakaway entity in the occupied territories in this exercise. This raised serious concerns and prompted immediate action from Cyprus.

Collaborating with the Diplomatic Office of the President of the Republic and the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched diplomatic representations at various levels. Through these efforts, it was discovered that the participating states, Spain and Poland, were not aware in advance of the inclusion of the illegal secessionist entity. As a result, both Spain and Poland swiftly communicated their decision to withdraw from the exercise to the relevant authorities.

President Christodoulides also addressed the matter during the 55th Pancyprian Congress of ETYK. When questioned about the joint exercise, he revealed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had initiated inquiries into the situation. According to the initial information received, Turkey had organized the exercise and extended an invitation to the Pseudo-state.

Highlighting the recurring nature of such incidents, President Christodoulides emphasized the importance of caution for states invited to Turkey's exercises, including those organized within NATO. He urged them to thoroughly investigate in advance which other participants will be involved. The president warned that Turkey's actions were aimed at purportedly enhancing the status of the Pseudo-state, a matter of concern that must not be overlooked.

The withdrawal of Spain and Poland from the joint military exercise has undoubtedly sent shockwaves through the participating countries. It remains to be seen how this development will impact the dynamics and future of the exercise. As tensions rise and diplomatic efforts continue, the international community will closely watch the unfolding situation and its implications for regional stability.

[This article was translated from its Greek original]