Cyprus will keep working with the European Commission and the EU member states to reach consensus on the twentieth package of sanctions against Russia, Foreign Minister Konstantinos Kombos said on Monday morning as he arrived at the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels.
Kombos noted that although all items on the agenda are important, the discussion will focus on Ukraine ahead of the fourth anniversary of the Russian invasion. He stressed that “tomorrow marks four dark years since the Russian act of aggression against Ukraine”, an aggression that continues and has shaken the continent. He highlighted the resilience and sacrifices of the Ukrainian people, describing their stance as admirable and heroic.
Regarding the EU’s role in future negotiations, he underlined that the Union has already done much but can do far more, beginning with finding a way to be present at the negotiating table. He added that it is time for action to make this possible.
Kombos emphasised that Cyprus, as a country that has experienced invasion and ongoing occupation, fully supports Kyiv. “Cyprus, itself a victim of invasion and continuing occupation, stands fully by Ukraine, its territorial integrity and its sovereignty”, he said. He added that the EU must reaffirm that it remains steadfastly on Ukraine’s side.
The twentieth sanctions package
Kombos described the twentieth sanctions package as ambitious and strong, containing innovative elements. Unfortunately, he said, consensus has not yet been reached. However, the Presidency will continue its efforts. “It will not be easy, it never was, but we must not give up”, he noted.
Cooperation with the Peace Council
Responding to a question about the Peace Council and the participation of former UN diplomat Nikolay Mladenov, appointed by US President Donald Trump to lead the Council, Kombos said that direct and regular cooperation already exists. He noted that they have met several times and that Mladenov represents the executive side of the Peace Council.
He stressed that there is currently only one plan in force and that direct dialogue is necessary, which is why Cyprus requested his invitation and participation at the meeting.
Progress on the twenty point plan
Kombos said significant progress has already been made on the twenty point plan. He stressed the importance of the EU being present in the dialogue, listening to how it can help and finding coordinated ways to offer support.
At national level, he said that Nicosia has long been actively involved, submitting various ideas and proposals to contribute to an issue of crucial importance for the region and global security.
On discussions about a potential EU representative for dialogue with Russia
Asked about discussions on giving a mandate to an EU representative to begin direct dialogue with Russia, Kombos was cautious about handling the matter publicly. He noted that he had been informed earlier about statements by several colleagues and that differing views clearly exist. In his view, the issue should first be discussed privately and behind closed doors before becoming a matter of public debate.
He concluded by saying that great care is needed in handling such matters, as there are many sensitivities and differing approaches. The shared goal, he said, must be to support Ukraine and the overall negotiation process.
Source: CNA