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UN Report: Guterres Proposes UNFICYP Mandate Renewal - 146 Violations Recorded, 112 by Turkish Forces

Published January 6, 2026, 07:17
UN Report: Guterres Proposes UNFICYP Mandate Renewal - 146 Violations Recorded, 112 by Turkish Forces

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is proposing a renewal of the UNFICYP mandate for another 12 months, until January 31, 2027. In his report, he expresses concern about violations within and around the buffer zone, particularly the construction of military installations aimed at changing the military status quo, as well as the situation in the fenced-off area of Varosha. Mr. Guterres notes a new, albeit cautious, dynamic in the Cyprus issue, due to the assumption of duties by the new Turkish Cypriot leader and the strengthening of communication between the leaders. However, he points out that no substantial progress has been made in de-escalation and that the military build-up along the ceasefire line continues. The report states that the National Guard has marginally increased the number of surveillance devices, while Turkish forces have proceeded with new towers and devices. Additionally, concern is expressed about the concealment of military positions within civilian structures, a practice considered problematic. UNFICYP continues to play a critical role in maintaining stability, but its effectiveness is limited by the lack of full cooperation from both sides. The report also refers to the stalemate in the issue of the Pyla plateau, calling on the parties to cooperate to find a solution.