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Turkish Cypriots Displeased with Metsola's References to EOKA

Published March 20, 2026, 10:10
Turkish Cypriots Displeased with Metsola's References to EOKA

The leader of the People's Party, Kudret Ozersay, strongly criticized European Parliament President Roberta Metsola's reference to EOKA, calling it a disregard for the sensitivities of Turkish Cypriots and an indication of illogic from European institutions. He argued that EOKA was a terrorist organization that caused violence and terror in Cyprus, not for independence, but for union with Greece. Mr. Ozersay accused the EU of exacerbating xenophobia and nationalism in Cyprus with this biased attitude. He also criticized Ms. Metsola for choosing to meet with the Greek Cypriot leader and observe the “TRNC” from the checkpoint. Meanwhile, the “prime minister” of the occupied state, Unal Ustel, reacted to a post by the Greek Minister of Defense, Vasilis Palmas, and statements by the Archbishop of Cyprus, characterizing them as a threat to the existence of Turkish Cypriots. He also condemned Ms. Metsola's invocation of EOKA. Mr. Ustel called for unity between government and opposition to defend the security and rights of Turkish Cypriots, emphasizing that their existence is at stake.