Cyprus not a target, government repeats

Cyprus is operating under full operational readiness after two unmanned aerial drones heading towards the British bases at Akrotiri were intercepted, government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said on Monday, stressing that the republic itself is not a target.

“Aall necessary measures are being taken and there is full operational readiness and coordination of all competent services,” he said.

Information received shortly before noon indicated that two drones were moving towards the British bases at Akrotiri and that all relevant protocols were immediately activated.

Letymbiotis also underlined the importance of accurate public information, warning that speculation and unverified reports could heighten public anxiety.

Government sources said the intelligence was shared through established regional and European cooperation channels, allowing authorities to respond rapidly.

The alert followed a drone strike shortly after midnight on the runway of RAF Akrotiri, which caused minor material damage but no injuries.

The explosion was heard in surrounding areas, prompting base authorities to instruct personnel to remain indoors and away from windows.

Civil defence and police were mobilised, access roads were sealed and aircraft movements were observed in the immediate aftermath.

British bases authorities confirmed that the drone was small and unmanned, emphasising that there were no casualties.

Messages were sent to base personnel and their families advising them to remain in sheltered areas until further instructions were issued.

Following the detection of the two additional drones on Monday afternoon, authorities proceeded with precautionary evacuations of Akrotiri village.

Letymbiotis said the decision followed the British bases command’s move to evacuate non-essential personnel from the base.

“The Republic of Cyprus acted prudently and preventively,” he affirmed.

“These measures are not an indication of panic but of preparedness. Our priority is the safety of citizens.”

Residents were temporarily relocated to facilities in Limassol, including community centres and hotels, while local authorities coordinated with civil defence to provide transport and basic support.

Officials stressed that evacuations were voluntary and precautionary, and that no threat had been identified against civilian areas.

Temporary precautionary measures were also taken at Paphos Airport, where operations were briefly adjusted.

Letymbiotis said Cyprus remains in constant coordination with the United Kingdom, the United States, France and Greece on aviation and civilian safety.

“At the moment, Cyprus’ airspace is operating normally,” he said, while acknowledging that some airlines have cancelled flights due to wider regional developments.

Aviation authorities said the adjustments were limited and precautionary, aimed at ensuring maximum safety during periods of heightened alert.

Passengers were advised to check with airlines for updated schedules, particularly for routes affected by airspace closures elsewhere in the region.

Addressing the origin of the drones, Letymbiotis said information is under evaluation and will be announced once verified.

He dismissed reports suggesting ballistic missiles had been launched towards Cyprus.

“The confirmed information concerns two unmanned drones,” he said.

“Cyprus has never been, and is not, a target.”

Security sources indicated that the drones were likely launched from Lebanon and were flying at very low altitude, complicating detection.

Letymbiotis confirmed that the drone which struck the base overnight was small and low-flying, presenting interception challenges.

“These are the challenges modern security environments pose,” he admitted.

“This is why our systems are on full operational readiness and why close cooperation with partners is essential.”

Officials explained that low-altitude drones can evade traditional radar systems, requiring layered air defence and rapid information sharing.

Letymbiotis confirmed that President Nikos Christodoulides had spoken to Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, agreeing on additional preventive deployments.

Greece will send two navy frigates to Cyprus, including the frigate Kimon, as well as assets carrying the Kentaurus anti-drone system, while two F-16 from the Hellenic air force will also be deployed.

Letymbiotis thanked the Greek government for its immediate response, while clarifying that operational details regarding deployment locations and rules of engagement would not be made public for security reasons.

Letymbiotis also confirmed contact between Christodoulides and French President Emmanuel Macron, with France expected to provide assistance of a similar nature.

“Our air defence systems, including recent assets acquired from Israel, are fully operational and actively deployed,” Letymbiotis said.

Responding to concerns over public anxiety, he urged calm, stressing that contingency plans are activated and reviewed daily.

He said the National Security Council met and all services, including civil defence, police and the national guard, remain on heightened alert.

Authorities also acknowledged concerns raised by residents regarding warning systems and public alerts.

Letymbiotis said communication procedures are under continuous review to ensure timely and clear information reaches communities in the event of any future incidents.