European Solidarity in Action for the Security of Cyprus
European solidarity: Macron and Mitsotakis Stand with Christodoulides in Paphos to Defend Cyprus. On March 9th, 2026, the leaders of France, Greece, and Cyprus gathered at the “Andreas Papandreou” Air Base in Paphos. French President Emmanuel Macron, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides stood shoulder to shoulder. They delivered a powerful message: when Cyprus faces attack, all of Europe faces attack. This “Three Musketeers” moment—one for all, all for one—demonstrated European solidarity in its most tangible form.
Macron: “When Cyprus Is Attacked, It Is Europe That Is Attacked”
President Macron did not mince words during the joint press conference. “I am here to tell you that when someone attacks Cyprus, they attack Europe,” he declared. The French leader emphasized that the defence of Cyprus represents a crucial issue not only for the island nation but for Greece, France, and the entire European Union .
Macron detailed France’s immediate military response following the drone and missile attacks on the British base in Cyprus. France deployed a Mistral air defence section and the frigate Languedoc within days of the assault. Furthermore, the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle and its strike group now operate close to Cyprus, contributing to the island’s overall defence posture . “Behind these signed texts,” Macron stated, “there is the solidarity of nations and their armed commitment”.
Mitsotakis: Cyprus Is Not and Will Never Be Alone
Prime Minister Mitsotakis reinforced the message of unwavering support. “From here, from Cyprus, together with President Nikos Christodoulides and the President of France Emmanuel Macron, we are sending a joint, clear, strong, and decisive message of unity and solidarity,” he said. He stressed that the Republic of Cyprus, as a member of the European family, “is not and will never be alone”.
European solidarity: Greece acted immediately, making the security of the island a key national priority. Two Greek frigates, including the state-of-the-art Belharra frigate Kimon, now patrol Cypriot waters alongside four armed F-16 Vipers stationed at the Paphos air base. Mitsotakis noted the historical symbolism: Kimon, an Athenian general and admiral, now lends his name to a vessel defending Cypriot skies.
A Collective European Effort
The European solidarity extended beyond France and Greece. Mitsotakis pointed out that Italy and Spain also contributed to the defensive effort. He framed this collective action as the embodiment of the mutual defence clause in Article 42(7) of the Treaty on European Union . “This, in turn, confirms that Europe remains a responsible power, capable of shaping global developments,” he asserted.
The leaders also highlighted Operation ASPIDES, the European Union’s maritime security operation coordinated by Greece, which protects shipping lanes and ensures freedom of navigation.
Cyprus’s Clear Position: Humanitarian, Not Belligerent
President Christodoulides made Cyprus’s stance unequivocally clear. “The position of the Republic of Cyprus is clear. We are not involved in any military operation. We remain committed to the humanitarian role we have served this entire time,” he stated. Cyprus, having suffered invasion and occupation for 52 years, understands the cost of war and acts as a bridge for cooperation, never as part of the problem. He expressed deep gratitude to Greece and France for transforming written agreements into tangible military support.
A Message to the Region and the World
The trilateral meeting in Paphos sent a clear signal across the Eastern Mediterranean and beyond. Europe stands united, determined to safeguard its member states and contribute to stability and peace. Mitsotakis addressed the Greek Cypriot people directly: “Our brothers and sisters, I am here today, together with all Greek women and men throughout the world. We would be present even if we were alone. But we are not alone at your side today”.
The Three Musketeers—France, Greece, and Cyprus—demonstrated that European solidarity is not merely a principle but a living, armed commitment. One for all, all for one.
