New U.S. ambassador arrives in Cyprus

John Breslow, the designated United States ambassador to Cyprus, arrived in Nicosia on September 5, 2026, as confirmed by the U.S. Embassy. His primary task in the coming days is to present his official credentials to the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, a formal step required to commence his duties.

Breslow, a businessman and former Nebraska state auditor, was nominated by U.S. President Donald Trump and confirmed by the U.S. Senate on August 7, 2026. His appointment marks a historic shift in U.S.-Cyprus relations, as he is the first non-career political appointee to hold this position. Previously, the role was exclusively held by members of the professional diplomatic service. Senate Foreign Relations Committee chairman Jim Risch highlighted during the April confirmation hearings that this selection represents a significant advancement in bilateral ties.

Originally from Lincoln, Nebraska, Breslow spent most of his professional career in the private sector, notably as the head of the industrial gas company Linweld. He also served as the state auditor of Nebraska between 1991 and 1999. Following the formal submission of his credentials to President Christodoulides, Breslow will officially begin his diplomatic mission in the country.