Turkey Slams France–Cyprus Troops Deal, Calls It Illegal

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Turkey strongly rejected the new defence cooperation deal between France and Cyprus, that allows for the possible deployment of French troops and increased military ties on the island, calling the action ‘illegal’ and unacceptable.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that the deal violates Turkish Cypriots' rights and risks raising tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. He warned that Ankara will respond ‘clearly and harshly’ to any actions that endanger its interests or those of the Turkish Cypriot community.

The France-Cyprus agreement, reached earlier this week, reportedly includes provisions for French military deployment, joint exercises, and greater defence coordination, as part of Europe's increasing security role in the region.

Turkey contends that the internationally recognised government of Cyprus lacks the ability to sign agreements impacting the entire island without the participation of Turkish Cypriots. Ankara claims that such agreements contradict current political balances on the divided island and risk destabilising regional security.

Cyprus, an EU member, has increased defence cooperation with France and other European allies in recent years, citing security concerns in the Eastern Mediterranean.