Cyprus steps into EU presidency amid Ukraine war and Middle East turmoil

Cyprus has been an EU member since 2004 but remains divided since the 1974 conflict between Greek and Turkish Cypriots. The island is split by a UN-patrolled buffer zone, including through the capital, Nicosia. Despite its distance from Brussels, Cyprus holds strategic importance in the eastern Mediterranean. Regional instability, including the war in Gaza and tensions in Lebanon and Syria, has increased its security role. Cyprus has positioned itself as a hub for humanitarian aid, energy cooperation and regional security ties. It also faces challenges from the war in Ukraine, migration pressures and strained EU-Turkey relations. As it takes on the EU presidency, Cyprus must navigate these crises while managing divisions within the bloc. Al Jazeera’s Sonia Gallego reports. Subscribe to our channel: bit.ly
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