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Cyprus found itself at the center of European attention Wednesday as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived on the island to attend the official inauguration of the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
It was Zelensky’s first visit to Cyprus, and his presence underscored both the growing international role of the small Mediterranean nation and the continuing global focus on Ukraine’s war with Russia.
A video of Zelensky's arrival in Larnaca, Cyprus. https://t.co/2MagJqSWXB pic.twitter.com/uXtQF5IYXJ
— NOELREPORTS (@NOELreports) January 7, 2026
At a meeting at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia, Zelensky told President Nikos Christodoulides that he hoped “many steps forward” would be made during their talks, signaling a push to bring Ukraine closer to EU support and integration. Christodoulides welcomed the Ukrainian leader, highlighting Cyprus’ own experiences with occupation and conflict, and reaffirming the island’s commitment to support Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
“We are very happy to have you here on this very important day for Cyprus,” Christodoulides said. “As the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU, we are ready to support the international community’s efforts for a just and sustainable peace in Ukraine.”
Zelensky expressed gratitude for Cyprus’ humanitarian aid to Ukraine and said he would brief Christodoulides on his recent meetings with American and European leaders. For both leaders, the discussions emphasized solidarity, practical support, and the shared understanding of the stakes involved in conflicts that threaten territorial integrity.
Zelensky also made a point to meet with Cyprus Archbishop George III.
The visit places Cyprus squarely on the map at a high level of European diplomacy, highlighting the small island nation’s ability to host influential leaders and play a visible role in EU decision-making.
On social media, Christodoulides described the meeting as “substantial and constructive,” noting that Ukraine will remain a central priority for Cyprus’ six-month EU presidency. “Every effort will be made to continue the EU’s multifaceted support at all levels,” he wrote, stressing that Cyprus “stands firmly by Ukraine’s side for a just and sustainable peace, fully based on the United Nations Charter.”
Zelensky’s attendance at the inauguration, alongside European Commission and Council leaders, also signals Cyprus’ growing visibility and influence within EU circles, putting the island alongside other capitals that host major international events.
Bottom line, Zelensky’s visit to Cyprus was more than ceremonial. It highlighted the island’s strategic and symbolic role in Europe, emphasized solidarity with a nation at war, and projected Cyprus as an active player on the international stage during its EU Council Presidency.
