Nicosia, Cyprus. French soldiers completed an amphibious exercise in Cyprus over the weekend as part of technical training involving French and Cypriot personnel. The drill took place while the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle and its carrier strike group remain deployed in the region.
Exercise and stated aims
The French army said the exercise involved sailors and soldiers from both France and Cyprus. It described the activity as an opportunity to strengthen cooperation, conduct joint training to enhance the ability to operate together, and ensure solidarity among European allies for collective security.
Carrier strike group deployment
The Charles de Gaulle and its carrier strike group were deployed to the eastern Mediterranean following the outbreak of the conflict in the Middle East at the beginning of this month. The group includes Italy’s Federico Martinego frigate, Spain’s Cristobal Colon frigate, and the Netherlands’ HNLMS Evertsen.
Dutch timeframe and reporting
No timeframe has been published for an eventual end to the group’s deployment. Dutch newspaper De Volkskrant reported last week that the Dutch government said the deployment of its frigate would be limited and defensive in nature, both geographically and in terms of time, and that the ship would remain in Cypriot waters until the beginning of next month.
Macron’s visit and remarks
French President Macron visited the Charles de Gaulle earlier this month after paying a joint visit to Cyprus alongside Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Macron said during that visit that the Charles de Gaulle is close to Cyprus to contribute to the overall defence picture and ensure it in the long term. He also said France wishes to ensure freedom of navigation and maritime safety in the eastern Mediterranean and in the Red Sea.
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