Nikos Christodoulides

France and Cyprus will sign a defense agreement allowing French troops to be stationed on Cyprus for humanitarian purposes, with the deal expected to cover military coordination, technology, and joint exercises. The Turkish Cypriot administration has rejected the agreement, arguing it disregards their rights and lacks authority.

Cyprus' parliamentary election saw a rise in support for the far-right parties, marking a significant setback for three centrist parties that had backed President Nikos Christodoulides. The outcome reflects shifting voter preferences away from centrist coalitions.

EU leaders agreed to develop a blueprint for using the EU's mutual assistance pact in response to foreign attacks, as Donald Trump's criticism of NATO intensifies amid the alliance's worst crisis. The European Commission will prepare the plan under the leadership of Cyprus, which is hosting the talks.

The European Union is increasing crisis preparedness tests, citing concerns over U.S. President Donald Trump's shifting security priorities. EU leaders will develop an operational plan in Cyprus and conduct exercises to simulate collective aid under Article 42.7 in response to potential aggression, such as a Russian invasion.

Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides urges EU leaders to create a clear operational plan under Article 42.7 for assisting member states under attack, following a recent drone strike on a British base in Cyprus. The plan aims to address coordination challenges between EU and NATO obligations.