Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus has formally complained to the United Nations over what it described as an extensive series of airspace and maritime violations by Turkey. The Republic submitted a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday covering incidents recorded in the final four months of 2025.
Letter to UN cites air and naval incidents
In the letter, Cyprus said it sought to draw attention to a long list of violations of Cyprus’ national airspace, international air traffic regulations in the Cyprus FIR, its territorial waters, and the illegal use of closed ports and airports.
According to the document, Turkish air and naval forces carried out 921 air violations and 40 naval violations between September and December 2025.
Breakdown of reported air violations
Of the air incidents cited, 388 involved Turkish unmanned military aircraft, while 151 were attributed to armed fighter jets.
The letter also referred to what it described as unauthorised military exercises in violation of the national airspace of the Republic of Cyprus.
Cyprus describes sovereignty concerns and broader pattern
Nicosia said the incidents amounted to a serious breach of sovereignty and territorial integrity and reflected what it called Turkey’s complete disregard for the United Nations charter and international law.
It said the actions formed part of a broader pattern of behaviour, citing almost daily violations by the Turkish occupation forces of the military status quo on the island and the continued upgrading of military infrastructure in the north.
“These actions reflect the continuous aggressive behaviour of the occupying power,” the letter said, adding that they “seriously undermine the sense of security of all Cypriots”.
Ports and airports in the north
The communication also referred to the continued operation of ports and airports in the north, describing their use as illegal under international law.
Support for UN engagement
The government said it reaffirmed its full support and unwavering commitment to the continued engagement of the secretary-general and his personal envoy.
What impact do you think this complaint could have on UN engagement over Cyprus-related issues?
