Protest in Larnaca Against the Use of Cyprus as a Military Base

Over the weekend, hundreds of people in Cyprus participated in a demonstration opposing the transformation of the island into a military base. The protest took place near the U.S.-sponsored CyCLOPS Security Training Center in Larnaca.

Protesters carried banners with slogans such as “Neither the U.S. nor NATO—Cyprus is not a protectorate,” “Cyprus is a bridge for peace and cooperation among nations, free of foreign armies and bases,” and “No Cyprus in NATO, no NATO in Cyprus.” The participants marched from the Larnaca Castle to the training center.

The event was organized by the Cyprus Peace Council and other civic groups, with an estimated turnout of around 500 people. Since the demonstration was peaceful, the police on standby did not need to intervene.

• "We oppose the continued militarization of our country and its transformation into a staging ground against neighboring, traditionally friendly nations. We are here because we cannot accept the surrender of our sovereignty and independence to foreign powers," said Tassos Kosteas, President of the Cyprus Peace Council.