Tensions persist in Pyla buffer zone as UN steps up presence

The situation in the UN-controlled buffer zone near the bicommunal village of Pyla remains tense, with an increased presence of peacekeeping forces and continued monitoring by authorities on the ground.

According to information, vehicles belonging to the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (Unficyp) remain stationed along the Green Line in the area. Vehicles linked to the Turkish Cypriot police are also reported to be present.

In an effort to prevent further escalation, the UN has reinforced its presence in a move that had already been signalled in recent days. Well-informed sources said a UN vehicle is positioned near a specific location where enclosures belonging to Turkish Cypriots are situated. On Wednesday morning, a vehicle associated with the Turkish Cypriot police was also observed parked in close proximity.

The Republic of Cyprus’ foreign ministry has taken charge of handling the situation and is closely monitoring developments on the ground, CNA reported, while taking all necessary diplomatic steps.

Unficyp spokesperson Siddique Aleem told the Cyprus Mail that “we remain vigilant and are working closely to maintain calm.”

He added that “there are no military assets inside the buffer zone, just sports utility vehicles.”

Concerning the Turkish flag he stated that “there is no Turkish flag inside the buffer zone – the Turkish flag is on the so called territory of the TRNC.”

According to an Unficyp post on ‘X’ “Unficyp is patrolling the area and continuing to monitor the situation closely.” It added that “the Special Representative of the Secretary General and Head of Unficyp, Khassim Diagne urges calm and restraint in Pyla respecting Unficyp mandate.”

Meanwhile, concerns have also been raised by livestock farmers in the area, who say the ongoing tensions are affecting essential veterinary work.

The president of the Pancyprian Association of Cattle Breeders Demetris Epaminondas said that during preparations for a second round of foot and mouth vaccinations, farmers managing nine cattle and sheep units advised the veterinary services not to proceed.

“They told us not to come because the occupation forces would create problems,” he said, adding that the United Nations had also warned “they could not guarantee the safety of those involved”.

He stressed that the vaccination schedule allows for a six-week window, but only one week now remains, raising concerns about the health of the animals if access to the area continues to be restricted