Quick Impressions: Nicosia, Cyprus

6 March 2026  

Klara Lindström  

Cyprus shows that it is possible to join the EU without full territorial control 

The Republic of Cyprus joined the European Union in 2004, but Protocol 10 suspends the EU acquis on territory not under governmental control. The Green Line regulation regulates trade between the two parts of the island.   

While accession with unresolved political conflicts is possible, as the Cyprus precedent shows, it might also complicate governance and entrench political division. Cyprus has still not joined the Schengen area, showcasing the difficulty of resolving issues of citizenship and the free movement of people. Over five decades have passed since the island was divided, yet prospects for settlement and reunification remain distant.  

Accession without full territorial control, therefore, requires not only institutional readiness and creativity, but also capacity to manage the legal and political complexities of contested territories. Cyprus could act as a proactive, technical facilitator for Ukraine on its accession path. Increased dialogue between the two countries, including at the highest political level, is a step in that direction.  

Russia’s persistent influence in Cyprus is not to be underestimated 

Just before it took over the EU-presidency, Cyprus had opened nine new visa centres in Russia. Cyprus is said to host around 143,000 registered Russian citizens and the Russian embassy is the largest in the country with nearly 300 diplomatic and administrative staff. Russian money, Orthodox Christianity and political and historical bonds strengthen Russia’s soft power and influence in Cyprus.  

Sober and strategic communication about Russia is therefore especially needed in this part of Europe. Russia’s antagonistic goals entail significant military, political and socioeconomic threats for Cyprus, at risk of being used as a platform where Russia could advance its strategic interests.  

It is just as vital to demonstrate how Ukraine can contribute with opportunities and security for all EU member states. Cyprus, with its unique geographical location and tax system, could become a hub to increase Ukrainian-Cypriot joint production of drones and strengthen strategic capabilities such as digitalisation and cybersecurity.