European Union reaffirms support for Greece and Cyprus amid Mediterranean tensions

On October 8, 2026, European Commission Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto addressed the European Parliament during a session focused on rising tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Aegean Sea. Fitto stated that the European Union remains committed to defending the interests of its member states, specifically Greece and Cyprus, while advocating for a sustainable de-escalation of regional conflicts.

During the session, Fitto emphasized that the Eastern Mediterranean is a region of critical geostrategic importance for the EU, serving as a primary migration route and a vital corridor for trade and energy interconnections. He explicitly addressed Turkey, calling for responsibility in the negotiation process regarding the Cyprus problem, and reiterated that regional stability is a prerequisite for improving EU-Turkey relations. Cypriot Members of the European Parliament also intervened during the debate, urging the European Union to adopt a more proactive role in fostering diplomatic progress and ensuring stability in the area.

The European Union maintains that it will continue to stand by its member states to address ongoing challenges. While the session highlighted the persistence of Turkish provocations, the EU continues to prioritize a diplomatic path for regional security and the long-term resolution of the Cyprus issue.