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Foot-and-mouth disease outbreak management and agricultural compensation in Cyprus

The Republic of Cyprus is currently managing an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, with confirmed cases in 112 livestock units, including recent reports in Kokkinotrimithia and Paliometocho. President Nikos Christodoulides rejected claims of administrative chaos, stating that the government is in constant contact with agricultural organizations to address the crisis. The government has pledged significant financial support to affected livestock farmers, which the President described as exceeding European benchmarks by 150%–200%. However, critics have raised concerns regarding biosafety protocols, specifically alleging that the disposal of approximately 170 culled cattle near Paliometocho involved transporting carcasses 16 kilometers away, potentially risking further viral spread. Following negotiations led by the Presidential Palace, farmers have suspended planned protests at the Rizoelia junction to pursue official dialogue. A meeting between the Minister of Agriculture, Maria Panayiotou, and farmer representatives is scheduled for next Tuesday. Additionally, the government announced a 168-million-euro water infrastructure package to support the agricultural sector, aiming to further increase the utilization of reclaimed water.

Original Sources

Farmers threaten action over animal culling suspension
Sigmalive English · 5 May 2026, 09:22
Foot-and-mouth disease cases rise to 108 units
Sigmalive English · 30 April 2026, 09:47
Eradication of FMD in Cyprus still years away, farmers warn
Sigmalive English · 29 April 2026, 15:38
It may take four to five years to get rid of FMD
Cyprus Mail · 29 April 2026, 14:16
Rare Cypriot sheep breed at risk from foot-and-mouth disease
Sigmalive English · 28 April 2026, 14:19