Dialogos

Ustel Calls Cyprus Republic 'Spoiled Child of Europe'

Published March 16, 2026, 17:01
Ustel Calls Cyprus Republic 'Spoiled Child of Europe'

The self-proclaimed “prime minister” of Northern Cyprus, Unal Ustel, strongly criticized the Republic of Cyprus, labeling it the “spoiled child of Europe” during a speech in Istanbul. He accused the Greek Cypriot side of exploiting the situation in the Middle East to strengthen its defense collaborations with countries such as Germany, France, Israel, and the United States, thereby putting pressure on Turkish Cypriots. He reiterated the Turkish position on the events of 1974, claiming that the Turkish intervention brought “freedom” to Turkish Cypriots. Furthermore, he referred to the increased Turkish military presence in the occupied territories, with the deployment of F-16 fighter jets and the activation of air defense systems. Ustel asserted that the occupied territories are now “one of the safest countries,” while claiming that the Greek Cypriot side is concerned due to developments in the region. In parallel, he expressed his sorrow for the situation in Gaza, blaming the international community for its silence.