cyprus defence — cyprus defence — France has firmly rejected Turkish allegations that its recently signed defence agreement with Cyprus breaches international law. French officials emphasise that this arrangement is a technical framework for military cooperation, not an establishment of a French military base on the island.
In response to Ankara’s criticism, French diplomatic sources conveyed to the Turkish news outlet Türkiye Today that the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) outlines the legal framework for the presence of French military personnel in Cyprus. This agreement is designed to facilitate humanitarian operations in the Levant.
The French government clarified that such agreements define the legal status of armed forces from one country while operating in another, particularly with countries that are outside multilateral defence structures like NATO.
Since Cyprus is not a NATO member, France stated that a bilateral arrangement was necessary to regulate military cooperation. The agreement, signed on June 8 by French Armed Forces Minister Catherine Vautrin and Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas, simplifies procedures governing French military stopovers, overflights, and deployments. These measures are especially pertinent during operations aimed at evacuating civilians from conflict zones, such as those undertaken in the Estia programme.
France also highlighted its previous use of Cyprus in June 2025 to facilitate the evacuation of French nationals from Israel, framing the agreement as part of broader efforts to enhance regional crisis response capabilities.
Turkey has been vocal in its criticism of the accord. Defence Minister Yasar Guler stated earlier this month that the agreement “lacks legitimacy, disrupts delicate balances, and violates international law.” Turkish officials have also expressed concerns that the agreement poses a threat to the security of Turkish Cypriots, warning that Turkey’s armed forces are prepared to respond decisively to any perceived threats.
In the face of these accusations, Paris has reiterated that the agreement “is not directed against Turkey” and is intended solely for humanitarian and operational purposes. A French diplomatic source further noted that France has supported Turkey during recent regional crises and is ready to respond to requests from allies in line with its international commitments.
