Cypriot defense minister clarifies status of Greek military presence

Cypriot Defense Minister Vasilis Palmas stated on Monday that there are no current plans for a permanent presence of Greek F-16 fighter jets or the frigate Elli in Cyprus. While four F-16s and the frigate remain in Cypriot territory, their stay is temporary and linked to regional stability, specifically following tensions that emerged in March. Palmas noted that the government is evaluating the situation daily in coordination with Greece. He clarified that neither the recent military agreement with France nor other current arrangements stipulate a permanent foreign military base. Meanwhile, the minister is scheduled to travel to Paris on Tuesday to inaugurate the Cypriot pavilion at the Eurosatory 2026 defense exhibition. During his trip, he plans to hold bilateral meetings, including discussions with the Brazilian Deputy Minister of Defense. The minister emphasized that future decisions regarding military deployments will be based on evolving security conditions.