Philenews

UN Envoy Pauses Cyprus Talks, Blaming Cyprus While Turkey's Role Remains Unaddressed

Published February 18, 2026, 09:15
UN Envoy Pauses Cyprus Talks, Blaming Cyprus While Turkey's Role Remains Unaddressed

The UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy, Maria Angela Holguin, has decided to pause efforts for the Cyprus settlement, responding to a request from the Turkish side. Turkey cites Cyprus's EU presidency and upcoming parliamentary elections as reasons for the postponement, claims that the Republic of Cyprus rejects. Criticism focuses on the fact that the UN official appears to place the blame primarily on Nicosia, while failing to mention the Turkish side's refusal to proceed with specific proposals, such as the one for the Athienou-Pyroi-Aglantzia crossing point. The behavior of Ms. Holguin has provoked reactions, with some defending her and others criticizing her approach. The case highlights a historical trend where efforts for Cyprus are frozen during elections in Turkey or the occupied territories, while the same does not happen when elections are held in Cyprus or Greece.