EU defence plan needed for crisis response
President of the Republic Nicos Christodoulides has called for an EU defence plan to set out a clear operational framework on how the European Union should respond in the event of an attack against a member state, during an interview with the Associated Press.
He stressed that while Article 42.7 of the EU Treaties provides for mutual assistance, the bloc still lacks a detailed mechanism defining how that support would be implemented in practice.
“We have Article 42.7, but we do not know exactly what will happen if it is activated,” he said, adding that an EU defence plan should include a structured “road map” with clear procedures and response options.
Article 42.7 and security coordination
The President said discussions among EU leaders are increasingly focused on how to operationalise Article 42.7 as part of a broader EU defence plan. The provision obliges member states to assist any country facing armed aggression, but its practical application remains undefined.
He noted that the issue has gained urgency following a recent drone strike near a British base in Cyprus, which led to the deployment of naval forces from Greece, France and Spain to strengthen regional security.
Christodoulides also highlighted the need for better coordination between the EU and NATO, particularly for countries belonging to both organisations, raising questions about how obligations under Article 5 of NATO would align with an EU defence plan.
Wider geopolitical priorities
Beyond security, the President underlined the importance of strengthening EU ties with the Middle East through initiatives such as the “Mediterranean Pact”, as well as advancing strategic connectivity projects like the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
He also referred to the Great Sea Interconnector project linking Cyprus, Greece and Israel, stressing the need for concrete steps towards its implementation.
On energy, Christodoulides said recent regional tensions, including the war involving Iran, highlight the urgency of diversification and energy security. He added that Cyprus could play a role through its natural gas reserves, while noting that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is expected to present proposals on energy costs and autonomy.
EU enlargement concerns
The President also criticised delays in EU enlargement decisions, warning that they risk undermining the Union’s credibility. He described enlargement as a key geopolitical tool that must be accompanied by timely and concrete action.
He reiterated that a coherent EU defence plan, combined with stronger geopolitical and energy strategies, is essential for the Union’s long-term stability and credibility.
Also read: Christodoulides: FBI team expected in Cyprus over “Sandy” case
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