Türkiye Warns Cyprus Over Security Threats, Confirms Ongoing Eurofighter Talks with UK

In a strong statement Thursday, Türkiye’s Defense Ministry declared it will not hesitate to exercise its guarantor rights in Cyprus to safeguard the security and stability of Turkish Cypriots, following inflammatory Easter remarks by Greek Cypriot Archbishop Georgios. The archbishop accused Türkiye of “expansionism” and called for unification efforts with Greece, sparking a harsh response from Ankara.

Defense sources emphasized that Türkiye would act against any provocations or threats from the Greek Cypriot administration, particularly in light of the recent declaration of an anti-Turkish militant group in southern Cyprus—a group said to echo the ideology of EOKA, the paramilitary group responsible for historic massacres of Turkish Cypriots.

“This fanatical rhetoric is one of the clearest signs of the mindset that has obstructed peace on the island for decades,” officials said.

Türkiye: “Peace Exists Thanks to Our Presence”

The ministry highlighted Türkiye’s 1974 military operation, often referred to as the Peace Operation, noting that it was launched after the overthrow of then-president Makarios III and ethnic violence against Turkish Cypriots. The statement reaffirmed Türkiye’s role in maintaining peace and preventing further bloodshed.

Türkiye also reiterated its support for a two-state solution based on sovereign equality, while rejecting what it calls unrealistic plans to transform Cyprus into a fully Greek Cypriot island.

“Cyprus has never been and will not become solely a Greek Cypriot island,” the statement asserted, inviting the Greek Cypriot leadership to adopt “common sense over hostility.”

Eurofighter Typhoon Negotiations Continue with UK, Not Germany

Turning to military procurement, Turkish officials clarified that negotiations for Eurofighter Typhoon jets are being conducted directly with the United Kingdom, not Germany—despite reports of a German veto on the sale.

“We’ve had no talks with Germany. British authorities have not communicated any obstacles in the process. Talks continue smoothly,” Defense Ministry sources confirmed.

Earlier reports by German outlet Handelsblatt claimed that Berlin had blocked the deal due to political concerns—chief among them, the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoğlu. Germany’s caretaker government reportedly expressed concerns over Türkiye’s adherence to democratic norms.

However, Ankara firmly rejected allegations of political persecution in the Imamoğlu case, maintaining that the Turkish judiciary acts independently.

Türkiye Eyes 40 Eurofighters After F-16 Frustrations

Türkiye’s interest in acquiring up to 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets follows ongoing delays in securing U.S. approval for F-16 fighter jets. The Eurofighter program involves Germany, the UK, Italy, and Spain, and requires unanimous approval for exports.

Despite potential hurdles, Türkiye remains optimistic, leveraging its partnership with the UK to bypass broader political friction with other consortium members.

Strengthening Domestic Defense Industry Amid Western Blocks

Faced with frequent arms embargoes, Türkiye has significantly expanded its indigenous defense production, including combat drones, missile systems, and naval vessels. As NATO’s second-largest military, Ankara aims to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers, even as it navigates complex defense partnerships with key allies.