Cyprus asks EU to put mutual defense back on the agenda
“Given the gravity of the challenges we face, Cyprus would welcome the resumption of discussions," the country's president wrote in a letter seen by POLITICO.
The president of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, has written to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, urging the EU to resume discussions on the mutual defense clause. In a letter dated October 20, Christodoulides emphasized the significance of this provision for the EU and its member states, particularly in the current era of geopolitical uncertainty.
Article 42.7 of the Lisbon Treaty stipulates that if an EU member faces "armed aggression," other members must offer "aid and assistance by all the means in their power." This clause has gained prominence due to escalating geopolitical threats, such as U.S. President Donald Trump's weakening of the transatlantic alliance, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and hybrid warfare against the EU.
Christodoulides expressed his welcome for the resumption of talks on the clause, requesting an update on the proposals under consideration and a timeline for the next steps. Earlier this year, the EU simulated the clause's practical application through exercises. Cyprus, which held the presidency of the European Council for six months, gave the issue top priority following Iranian drone attacks on a British base on Cypriot soil in March.
However, the topic has largely been sidelined as the EU focuses on negotiating its seven-year, nearly €2 trillion budget and providing additional funding for Ukraine. An EU official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that Article 42.7 is not slated to be discussed at any upcoming European leaders' summits.
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