Cyprus Times

Reactions Continue Over Metsola's References to EOKA in Occupied Territories

Published March 20, 2026, 10:07
Reactions Continue Over Metsola's References to EOKA in Occupied Territories

Reactions continue in the occupied territories following European Parliament President Roberta Metsola's references to EOKA during her visit to Cyprus. The president of the People's Party, Kuddret Ozersay, accused Metsola of "honoring" an organization that caused violence and terrorized both the British and Turkish Cypriots, claiming that EOKA sought union with Greece rather than Cypriot independence. Ozersay also criticized Metsola's choice to meet with the Greek Cypriot leader and observe the "TRNC" from the roadblock, considering it a disregard for Turkish Cypriots. Meanwhile, the president of the KEE and "prime minister" of the occupied territories, Unal Ustel, reacted to photos of the Cypriot Minister of Defense, Vasilis Palmas, with weapons and to statements by the Archbishop regarding Greek warships, characterizing these actions as an expression of a mentality that disrespects the existence of Turkish Cypriots. Ustel accused the European Union of a lack of logic, while also praising the "terrorist organization EOKA" and describing its members as "heroes." He considered these statements and behaviors unacceptable and called for unity between the government and the opposition to defend the interests of Turkish Cypriots. Ustel emphasized that the existence of the Turkish Cypriot "people" is at stake and that all other issues are secondary. This crisis highlights the strong disagreements and lack of trust between the two communities in Cyprus.