Averof Neofytou calls for review of energy sanctions against Russia amid inflation crisis

On Friday, October 16, 2026, former Democratic Rally (DISY) leader and presidential candidate Averof Neofytou held a press conference in Strovolos, Nicosia, his first public appearance in a week. Breaking his silence following the withdrawal of Annita Demetriou from the party's internal presidential nomination race, Neofytou focused primarily on the country's economic struggles rather than internal party affairs.

Neofytou highlighted that Cyprus has experienced the highest inflation rates in Europe over the past two months, warning that households will face severe financial difficulties during the upcoming winter. To address the mounting cost of living and energy prices, he urged President Nikos Christodoulides to formally advocate for the review and lifting of EU energy sanctions against Russia during the next European Council summit. Neofytou clarified that while he maintains his stance against the legality of the invasion in Ukraine, he believes Europe must adopt a more pragmatic approach to its energy policy to prevent further economic damage to its citizens.

The government is expected to evaluate the diplomatic implications of this proposal within the broader EU framework. Neofytou declined to provide details regarding his internal party candidacy, promising to address those issues in the following week.