Alpha News

Cyprus Talks Stall: From Embraces to Frostiness

Published January 28, 2026, 19:18

Negotiations on the Cyprus issue appear to have reached a standstill following a meeting between the leaders of the two communities and the UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy, Maria Angela Holguin Cuéllar. Ms. Holguin stated that there are currently no plans to hold the five-party conference next month, confirming the prevailing chill. Mr. Erhurman, the Turkish Cypriot leader, proposed meetings between the leaders without the mediation of Ms. Holguin, emphasizing the need for direct dialogue. President Christodoulides agreed with the prospect of continuing discussions and suggested that the negotiators arrange a meeting within the next two weeks. Today's meeting, lasting two hours, differed significantly from previous ones, where the atmosphere was warmer. The absence of a joint statement and photos, as well as the lack of embraces, reflects the prevailing disappointment. Ms. Holguin's statement was general, stating that the leaders shared proposals for starting substantial negotiations and examined the Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs). Despite the common recognition of the importance of CBMs to revitalize the process, no progress was made regarding the checkpoints that have been discussed for some time. President Christodoulides reiterated his willingness to proceed with the announcement regarding the Ledin checkpoint, however, the other four points (Atheenou, Kokkina, Mia Milia and Louroujina) remain in a deadlock package, with no agreement reached. The situation appears to be creating a suffocating atmosphere in an issue that urgently needs a solution.