Averof Neophytou calls for lifting of energy sanctions on Russia

On October 16, 2026, former Democratic Rally (DISY) leader and presidential candidate Averof Neophytou held a press conference in Strovolos to address the rising cost of living in Cyprus. Breaking a week-long silence following the withdrawal of Annita Demetriou from the party's internal presidential nomination race, Neophytou shifted the focus toward economic policy. He argued that temporary relief measures are insufficient and urged President Nikos Christodoulides to press for the reconsideration and lifting of European Union energy sanctions against Russia at the upcoming European Council summit, citing the precedent set by U.S. policy easing on Russian diesel as evidence that Europe should show political realism.

Neophytou emphasized that while he remains committed to the Democratic Rally, his proposals are those of an active citizen and presidential candidate. The DISY party leadership subsequently issued a statement distancing itself from Neophytou’s position, clarifying that it remains fully aligned with the European People's Party and the 27 EU member states' common policy regarding Russia, while stressing the need for coordination with Greece. Neophytou declined to provide details on his own internal party candidacy status, promising to address those matters in the coming week, though he confirmed he has secured the necessary 500 signatures.