Former DISY leader calls for EU to lift energy sanctions on Russia

On October 16, 2026, former President of the Democratic Rally (DISY) party and 2028 presidential hopeful, Averof Neophytou, held a press conference in Nicosia to address rising inflation and energy costs in Cyprus. Neophytou argued that rising energy prices are placing an unsustainable burden on households and urged President Nikos Christodoulides to press for a review and lifting of EU energy sanctions on Russia at the ongoing European Council summit. He cited a recent decision by the United States to ease restrictions on Russian diesel as a precedent, stating that Europe should show political realism rather than damaging its own economy.

Following his statements, the DISY leadership issued formal declarations distancing the party from his proposal. The party emphasized its commitment to the European People’s Party positions and the collective policy of the 27 EU member states, stating that Neophytou’s suggestion was a personal opinion expressed within the context of public debate. DISY officials, including party vice-president Savia Orphanidou, stressed the necessity of maintaining alignment with European partners and Greece, while critics argued that high energy prices in Cyprus are largely driven by geopolitical instability in the Middle East rather than existing sanctions.