Archive · 7 Jan 2026
Cyprus Begins EU Presidency with High-Profile Attendees
Cyprus started its six-month term as the leader of the European Union.
A big meeting happened in Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, with important leaders like the President of Ukraine, the head of the European Commission, and the leader of the European Council.
Cyprus wants to be a connection between Europe and the Middle East, so they invited leaders from that region too.
The President of Ukraine talked about working towards Ukraine's membership in the EU.
Cyprus has been supporting Ukraine in its war with Russia, even though Cyprus used to have close ties with Russia.
This is the second time Cyprus has been in charge of the EU.
Cyprus began its six-month EU presidency on January 7.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy attended the event in Nicosia.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa were also present.
A ceremony included Middle Eastern leaders, highlighting Cyprus's role as a bridge between Europe and the region.
This is Cyprus's second time holding the EU presidency.
- Who
- Cyprus, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, Ursula von der Leyen, Antonio Costa, Joseph Aoun
- What
- Cyprus assumes EU presidency
- When
- January 7
- Where
- Nicosia, Cyprus
- Why
- To lead the EU for a six-month term and foster connections between Europe and the Middle East
Cyprus's Stance
Historical Ties
Russia Relations
Cyprus's Stance
Cyprus has fully backed sanctions on Moscow and supports Ukraine's sovereignty.
Historical Ties
Cyprus traditionally had close political and cultural ties with Russia.
- Country
- Cyprus
- Event
- EU Presidency Assumption
- Date
- January 7
- Location
- Nicosia, Cyprus
- Key Attendees
- Volodymyr Zelenskiy, Ursula von der Leyen, Antonio Costa, Joseph Aoun
- Duration
- Six-month term
- Cyprus's Role
- Bridge between Europe and the Middle East
