Turkey reacts to extension of US arms sale lift for Cyprus

On September 17, 2026, Turkish officials voiced strong opposition to the United States' decision to extend the removal of restrictions on defense equipment sales to the Republic of Cyprus for another year, until September 30, 2027. The Turkish Ministry of Defence stated that this extension threatens the island’s sensitive security balances and the climate of trust, urging third parties to maintain a fair and impartial stance that does not ignore the Turkish Cypriot community.

Ünal Üstel, the leader of the National Unity Party (UBP) and 'prime minister' in the occupied territories, characterized the decision as a security threat to Turkish Cypriots and the Eastern Mediterranean. He declared that Turkey’s role as a guarantor power is non-negotiable and that the presence of Turkish soldiers on the island will not be subject to discussion. In parallel, the Turkish Defence Ministry criticized a visit by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to Kastellorizo, claiming that the presence of military forces on the island violates the 1947 Paris Peace Treaty.

Turkey continues to assert that it will take all necessary measures in cooperation with Turkish Cypriot authorities to ensure regional security. No immediate changes to the U.S. policy are expected, as the extension remains in effect through late 2027.