Athens, Greece. Cyprus and Greece reviewed the presence of Greek military assets on the island and discussed Cyprus’ interest in acquiring the Kentavros defence system during a meeting between Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas and Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias.
Review of Greek military assets
Palmas thanked Greece for its swift deployment of military assets to Cyprus after a drone hit the Akrotiri base, including the Kimon and Psara frigates and four F-16 fighter jets. He described the move as forming a “protective umbrella” amid heightened regional tensions.
According to Greek media, Dendias said the ongoing Greek military presence in Cyprus will continue to be assessed based on prevailing conditions linked to the conflict in the Middle East.
Regional security and humanitarian readiness
Palmas said the two sides carried out a joint review of the situation in the Middle East and the eastern Mediterranean, noting potential for an enhanced role for Cyprus and Greece in the region.
He also said both countries are ready to undertake humanitarian missions or support peace initiatives aimed at restarting political dialogue. “The humanitarian role we can play together is strong and undeniable,” Palmas said, adding that both countries stand ready to contribute to efforts aimed at ending the conflict and stabilising the region.
Writing on X, Palmas said the discussion “focused on coordination between Cyprus and Greece to maintain and strengthen regional stability in the eastern Mediterranean, through closer cooperation and the undertaking of joint initiatives within the EU in response to ongoing geopolitical challenges”.
Kentavros system and upcoming events
The two ministers discussed bilateral ties and defence cooperation and are also scheduled to attend Greece’s March 25 independence day parade.
On the Kentavros defence system, Dendias said the matter was discussed and confirmed that Palmas is expected to visit the Hellenic Aerospace Industry for a presentation of the system.
Broader developments and energy prices
Dendias said talks also covered regional developments including the situation in the Middle East, Lebanon and Iran, as well as the economic impact of rising energy prices.
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