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Mapped Out: Why Cyprus is NATO and Europe's hidden problem

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Grzegorz Szymanowski | Marie Joslyn
May 12, 2026

50 years after its division, Cyprus is back in the focus of the European Union, as Europe redraws its security strategy amid a changing world order. Could geopolitical tensions help unify the island?

Cyprus, long divided between Greek and Turkish communities, is gaining new geopolitical importance.

The island's unresolved conflict splits it into an EU-recognized south and a Turkish-backed north, separated by a UN buffer zone.

Now, energy discoveries, regional rivalries and shifting security alliances are raising tensions.

As Europe seeks stability, Cyprus has become a strategic flashpoint shaping relations between the EU, Turkey and the wider Middle East.

Grzegorz Szymanowski Reporter specializing on geopolitics and security in Central and Eastern Europe
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Mapped Out - Navigating a changing world

Do you find it hard to steer through a complex world mired in border disputes, land conflicts and wars over resources? You're not alone. Let's explore all things geopolitical together and chart possible solutions.

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