Biden Strengthens Defense Ties with Cyprus

President Joe Biden has issued a memorandum allowing Cyprus to receive U.S. defense articles and military sales, marking a significant strengthening of security ties between the two nations. This decision follows the lifting of a long-standing arms embargo on Cyprus and is seen as a strategic move to bolster regional stability amid rising tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. The United States is also facilitating Cyprus' participation in multiple defense programs aimed at modernizing its armed forces and improving interoperability with NATO. The memorandum, which emphasizes that this assistance will enhance U.S. security and promote world peace, has drawn criticism from Turkey, which is concerned about the implications for Turkish Cypriots. Analysts believe this policy shift aligns with U.S. efforts to enhance military cooperation with regional allies in response to geopolitical challenges. Furthermore, the improved relations are expected to benefit the Greece-Cyprus alliance, further solidifying their shared defense interests.