Turkish officials respond to US arms sales to Cyprus and Greek military presence in Kastellorizo

On September 17, 2026, the leader of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), Unal Ustel, criticized the United States' decision to extend the lifting of the arms embargo on Cyprus for another year. Ustel argued that this move facilitates the militarization of the island, threatens the security of Turkish Cypriots, and destabilizes the Eastern Mediterranean. He reiterated that the Turkish security guarantee and the presence of Turkish troops on the island are non-negotiable.

Separately, the Turkish Ministry of Defense addressed the recent visit of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to Kastellorizo. During a weekly briefing, Ministry spokesman Zeki Akturk stated that Turkey is closely monitoring Greek military activity in the region, asserting that the presence of forces and warships on Kastellorizo violates the 1947 Paris Peace Treaty status. The Ministry also mentioned the relocation of the 51st Commando Brigade to Soke, a move authorized in June. These developments occur against a backdrop of increasing regional instability and escalating military tensions throughout the Eastern Mediterranean.