Christodoulides: EU is capable of independent defense

Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides criticized the position of NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, stating that the European Union is capable of developing its defense potential independently. Speaking at the DEFEA 2026 exhibition in Athens, he emphasized that the EU possesses both the resources and the political will to strengthen its own security. According to him, a defense-independent EU would become a stronger partner for NATO, rather than its weak link.

Christodoulides also signaled that Cyprus is ready to consider the possibility of joining NATO if the appropriate conditions are met. He noted that within the framework of the presidency of the Council of the European Union, defense has become a priority, including the development of military mobility and the removal of bureaucratic barriers. Additionally, he pointed to a funding potential of 1.2 billion euros under the SAFE program and highlighted the growth of the country's defense industry, which already involves dozens of companies and European programs.