President Nikos Christodoulides assured the public that the government is taking all necessary measures to safeguard the country and its citizens after a drone struck the British military base at Akrotiri shortly after midnight, causing minor damage.
In a televised address, Christodoulides said he chose to speak directly to the public to explain the events of the previous night. He said the incident involved a Shahed‑type unmanned aerial vehicle that crashed inside the base at 12:03 a.m.
The president said all relevant state services were placed on full alert and operational readiness immediately. He convened the National Security Council to assess the situation, and the body remains in continuous consultation.
Christodoulides said he is in ongoing contact with European leaders and counterparts from other countries as developments unfold. He noted that Cyprus lies in a region of significant geopolitical instability and is facing an unprecedented crisis.
He stressed that the Republic of Cyprus is not participating in any military operation and does not intend to become part of one. He said Cyprus remains committed to the humanitarian role it has played throughout the crisis, acting as part of the solution rather than the problem.
Christodoulides concluded by saying the government will continue to act with responsibility.
