Limassol, Cyprus. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the European Union stands “collectively, firmly, and unequivocally” with Cyprus after a drone hit the island’s British Akrotiri air force base shortly after midnight. She said the Republic of Cyprus was not the target.
Von der Leyen’s call with Christodoulides
Von der Leyen said she spoke with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, who briefed her on what she described as a single incident shortly after midnight involving an unmanned aerial vehicle targeting the British base in Akrotiri. She said the EU stands “collectively, firmly, and unequivocally with our member states in the face of any threat”.
Response at the British bases
Personnel on the British bases were informed shortly after 1am that a “small drone” had “impacted the airfield” and that the bases’ authorities were responding. The authorities instructed personnel to remain in place and await further instruction, warning that there may be additional impact.
Damage and local reports
It was confirmed there were no casualties, but minor damage was caused. Explosion and siren sounds were heard in nearby Limassol.
What impact could this incident have on security measures in Cyprus?
