Newsroom
When Uncle Sam says ''build a road,'' Cyprus listens...even if that road cuts straight through years of environmental red tape.
The United States is pressing Cyprus to create a second access route to Paphos International Airport and the neighboring Andreas Papandreou air base, calling it a matter of national security. The plan, which has been shot down for two decades over environmental concerns, is suddenly back in play.
Washington argues that an alternative road is vital in case of emergencies. The U.S. Air Force’s 435th Emergency Response Wing, based in Germany, has already made two trips to Cyprus, inspecting the base and offering technical blueprints.
Cyprus’ Ministry of Defense has begun briefing stakeholders and is preparing to present the proposal to the Cabinet. Officials say the new road could be included in a “dual-use” strategy, meaning it would serve both military and civilian purposes.
The catch? The route would likely affect the Ezousa River estuary, part of the EU’s Natura 2000 network of protected habitats. Environmental authorities have consistently rejected similar plans, warning of irreversible damage.
The government is now caught between two heavyweights: safeguarding Cyprus’ fragile ecosystems or answering the call of its most powerful ally. One thing is clear: the road to a decision won’t be smooth.
