No new incident reported
Cyprus air defence readiness remains at full operational capacity, with no new incident recorded within the Republic, Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis said on Tuesday.
Speaking on the “Protoselido” programme, Letymbiotis stressed that there was no official report of any incident in the Republic of Cyprus on the previous night, following citizen reports of explosions and flying objects in the sky, as well as drone-related incidents allegedly targeting the British Bases.
He emphasised that competent authorities are in continuous and close monitoring of all available data, while security measures remain heightened. Citizens were urged to rely exclusively on official government announcements and information issued by the relevant authorities, acknowledging that concerns are understandable but warning against the spread of rumours.
112 system and early warning mechanism
Referring to the 112 system, Letymbiotis clarified that the European emergency number is operating normally.
Regarding the national early warning system for the population, he explained that following complex and time-consuming procedures- including tendering-related issues- the aim is for it to become fully operational by this summer, provided no unforeseen obstacles arise. He described the tool as one of proven usefulness and said its completion remains a priority.
Drone incidents at British Bases
On the issue of drones, the Spokesperson confirmed that reports concerned incidents at the British Bases in Cyprus on Sunday evening, as well as two drones that were shot down the following day. He reiterated that there was no ballistic missile attack against the Republic of Cyprus.
Letymbiotis explained that unmanned aerial vehicles operate at low altitude and specific speed profiles, creating operational challenges. Even states with highly advanced defence systems, he noted, face difficulties in their immediate detection and interception.
Nevertheless, Cyprus air defence readiness has been at full operational capacity from the moment enhanced measures were adopted.
Contacts with the United Kingdom
Particular reference was made to contacts between the President of the Republic and UK officials. Initially, public statements indicated that the British Bases would not be used for operations related to the specific conflict.
However, Letymbiotis noted that it had not been clarified from the outset that facilities the United Kingdom would provide to the United States did not concern the bases in Cyprus. The clarification was officially provided the following day by the UK Prime Minister and the UK Foreign Secretary, highlighting- according to the government- the need for clear and timely coordination.
Regarding a possible review of the treaty governing the status of the Bases, the Spokesperson stated that nothing is excluded at this stage. However, priority remains the close monitoring of developments and the continuous assessment of measures by the National Security Council.
Greek and potential French support
Letymbiotis also referred to the presence of Greek assets in Cyprus, noting that four F-16 fighter jets of the Hellenic Air Force and two frigates are currently on or expected to arrive on the island, strictly within the framework of precautionary measures. One of the frigates has anti-drone capabilities aimed at enhancing surveillance and deterrence.
Developments are also expected regarding potential assistance from France, with final arrangements still underway.
Origin of the drones and National Council briefing
On the origin of the drones, the Spokesperson acknowledged that there are indications regarding their launch points, both for the recent incidents and those on Sunday, but refrained from providing further details pending full verification.
The matter was extensively discussed at the National Council, where incidents and measures taken were assessed. According to the government’s evaluation, the measures are considered necessary and sufficient, with the safety of the country and its citizens as the foremost priority.
Political leaders were also briefed on diplomatic contacts with partners in the European Union and third countries, as well as preparations for the repatriation of Cypriot citizens once conditions permit.
Connect2CY and regional instability
Letymbiotis once again called on Cypriots abroad to register on the Connect2CY platform of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to enable direct communication and organised repatriation when feasible.
He acknowledged that due to airspace closures in the wider region, immediate travel is currently not possible. However, coordinated actions with partners are ongoing.
Concluding, the Spokesperson underlined that Cyprus is situated in a region of longstanding geopolitical instability and that the current crisis is unprecedented in intensity. He stressed that the Republic maintains excellent relations with states in the region, seeking to play a stabilising and humanitarian role.
“Cyprus is part of the solution, not the problem,” he said, emphasising that the country’s stance is grounded in consistency, diplomatic responsibility, and adherence to international law.
Also read: Live: Cyprus on alert following drone strikes amid Iran crisis
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