Feverish speculation that Russia wants military base in Cyprus
Sergei Lavrov
FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE • Wed, Jul 25, 2012
The Foreign Minister has sharply rejected rumours that Nicosia has offered Russia a military base in exchange for a 5 billion euro bailout.
"There's no way that's going to happen," said Erato Kozakou-Marcoullis when asked about the possibility of a permanent Russian naval presence on the island's southern coast following a meeting with her Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov.
Last week Russian warships docked at Limassol port, leading to feverish speculation that Cyprus may be considering allowing Russia a military foothold on the island.
Despite the governments move to quickly to quash the rumours, international media continue to report on Moscow's growing interest in Cyprus for military purposes.
With the fragile situation, the future of Russia’s naval base at the Syrian port of Tartus seems uncertain, with some commentators suggesting that Moscow is attempting to hold on to its influence in the region.
However, some Western and Arab countries are likely to remain jumpy over Moscow's intentions, especially the British which maintains two large military bases on the island.
The Russian government extended 2.5 billion euros of debt to Cyprus last year in an earlier tranche of financial assistance.
— Copyright © Famagusta Gazette 2012 All comments are now moderated
Well I suggest we give russia the space. Infact why doesn't she start at Cape Apostolos Andreas .... lol
Well I suppose this would be the best time, because poor tofoui wont be likely to be voted in next year.
