Russian jets granted use of Greek Cypriot airbase if in ‘difficult situation’

ATHENS – Anadolu Agency

AFP photo

Greek Cypriot President Nikos Anastasiades has said Russian fighter jets in Syria could use military bases and other airports in Greek Cyprus if caught in a “difficult situation.” 

In Athens for a three-way talk with Greece, Egypt and Cyprus, Anastasiades said Russian warplanes and ships could take on supplies from the country and use its military airbase or other airports in case of need. 

“In critical situations, Russian ships or aircrafts are allowed to take supplies. This is not with an aim to [facilitate] attacks but as aid,” said Anastasiades on Dec. 9. 

“If Russian warplanes are in a difficult situation they can use the Andreas Papandreou military base or the other airports,” he added. 

Anastasiades said the deal reached with Russia was to provide the same conveniences Greek Cyprus provides to Germany and France.  

Two days before Anastasiades’ remarks, Greek Cypriot Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides said there was a “dialogue between the governments of Cyprus and Russia on the matter of facilities for humanitarian and emergency purposes,” which would allow Russian warplanes carrying out strikes in support of Syria’s president to use its airports in case of emergencies.

Cyprus was obliged by law to offer similar facilities to other countries in emergency situations, particularly when lives are at risk, Kasoulides said, citing their arrangement with France.

“International law requires that help is given in an emergency situation and there is agreement. With Moscow there is a legal drafting process for an agreement also,” he added.