European Prosecutors Investigate €1.9B Cyprus-Greece- Israel Power Cable Project

European prosecutors have opened a criminal investigation into the 1.9 billion euro EU-funded Great Sea Interconnector project, a subsea electric cable linking Greece, Cyprus, and Israel, amid concerns over its cost, viability, and management of EU funds. Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides confirmed the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) initiated the inquiry following complaints, without specifying targets, while emphasizing the importance of protecting Cyprus's international reputation. The project, which aims to be the world's longest and deepest high-voltage cable, has faced multiple delays and financial disputes, including Cyprus's refusal to release approved funding, raising diplomatic tensions with Greece. Cyprus's Finance Minister declared the project not viable under current terms, exacerbating uncertainty about its future, while Greek officials stressed the need for shared costs and a clear commitment from Cyprus to proceed. The probe and financial disagreements have put the strategic energy link, part of a broader Mediterranean energy grid plan, at further risk, with calls for clarity and cooperation from all involved parties. Both Cyprus and Greece affirm the project's strategic importance, but the investigation and internal disputes have created significant obstacles to its completion.