
Tseri firing range set to close, defence minister says
The Tseri firing range is set to close, Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas said on Friday, although he did not specify when operations would cease.
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The Tseri firing range is set to close, Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas said on Friday, although he did not specify when operations would cease.

Greek F-16 fighter jets and a French C-130 transport aircraft were observed over the Kition-Perivolia area, causing alarm among residents, Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas confirmed.

Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas stated that the memory of the five military officers killed in the 2002 helicopter crash near Kouklia remains a lasting point of reference for both the Republic of Cyprus and the National Guard.

Cyprus Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas has reiterated that the allocation of new conscripts to their posts follows an objective, transparent, and fair procedure. He made the statement during the random allocation process at the Christos Samaras military camp.

Cyprus Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas stated that there have been no discussions about the permanent deployment of Greek F-16 fighter jets or a naval vessel in Cyprus, emphasizing that the current presence is temporary.

Cyprus Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas called for restraint in public discussion regarding the army careers of a terrorism suspect's children, emphasizing that family members should not be judged based on allegations against others.

Cypriot Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas attended a graduation ceremony for national guard's naval special forces at the Evangelos Florakis naval base in Mari, reaffirming Cyprus's commitment to regional security.

Cyprus Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas spoke at the 41st Marathon of Love for Missing Persons, reaffirming state support for families and emphasizing the ongoing relevance of the issue.

Cyprus itself was not the target of recent threats in the region, defence minister Vasilis Palmas said on Tuesday, clarifying that warnings instead related solely to the British bases. Speaking to Greek broadcaster ERT, Palmas asserted that the republic had not been directly threatened despite rising tensions linked to the regional conflict. “It was not […]

Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas is scheduled to meet with his Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias to discuss developments in the region in view of the ongoing war between the United States, Israel and…

The government tabled legislation on Thursday to substantially upgrade the institution of contract soldiers (Syops) extending their service life, improving pay and creating clear pathways for promotion, in a bid to stabilise staffing and operational readiness of the national guard. The bill was presented to the House defence committee by Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas, who […]

Cyprus Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas confirmed the initiation of procedures to shut down the Tserkezoi shooting range, though no specific timeline for completion was provided.

Cypriot Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas stated that those responsible for the wildfire that erupted at the Kalo Chorio firing range last month will be held accountable according to the law, following a National Guard disciplinary report.

Cyprus's Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas announced an increase in contract non-commissioned officer (NCO) positions within the National Guard from 250 to 400, citing growing personnel needs.

Cyprus is moving forward with its EU-backed defense plans, including base upgrades and military partnerships, with Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas asserting the republic's autonomy in defense agreements.

Cyprus Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas praised the EU Council's adoption of an agreement with Canada, which will integrate Canadian companies and products into the EU's €150 billion Security Action Plan for procurement.

Britain and Cyprus have reaffirmed their close defense partnership following talks in London between UK Defence Secretary John Healey and Cyprus Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas, focusing on shared security challenges.

Cyprus announced it will use €1.18 billion from the EU Safe programme over five years to cover its defense needs and enhance its role in the European security system, according to Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas.

The Cypriot cabinet has approved an increase in the special allowance granted to all contract soldiers (Syop), raising it from €100 to €150, as announced by Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas.

Defence minister Vasilis Palmas assured on Friday that Cyprus’ operational readiness remains high, yet cautioned that that no nation can guarantee absolute protection amid escalating regional tensions. Speaking on Sigma TV, Palmas said the republic relies on strong alliances, particularly with Greece and other EU member states. “Absolute protection does not exist, even in Israel, […]

Cyprus Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas has categorically denied reports that Iranian missiles were fired towards Cyprus, directly contradicting claims made by UK Defence Secretary John Healey.

Cyprus's Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas announced that the National Guard will punish personnel who 'did not do their job properly' regarding explosives that went missing during a training exercise, with police investigations ongoing.

Low-flying aircraft observed over the Kiti and Pervolia areas of Larnaca were identified as Greek F-16 fighter jets and a French C-130 military transport aircraft. Cyprus Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas confirmed these were part of routine activities.

Cyprus Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas affirmed that the National Guard remains the country's main deterrent against external threats and the foremost defender of its freedom and democracy, speaking at a swearing-in ceremony.

Akel Famagusta has urged Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas to re-evaluate the location of the 'Modestos Panteli' military camp in Liopetri, citing long-standing safety concerns from residents due to its proximity to homes and a primary school.

Cyprus's Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas inaugurated the Cypriot pavilion at the Eurosatory 2026 international defence and security exhibition in Paris, aiming to strengthen the international presence of its defence industry.

Cyprus Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas emphasized the importance of training, readiness, and personnel development during the final phase of the “Dimitra 2026” military exercise at the Kalo Chorio firing range in Larnaca.

Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas attended the annual Cyprus Forum London 2026 as part of his visit to London, ahead of a scheduled meeting with UK Defence Secretary John Healey.

Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas emphasized the importance of military readiness, modernization, and strategic alliances, confirming plans to upgrade key infrastructure during remarks marking the feast day of Saint George.

Cyprus's defense minister, Vasilis Palmas, highlighted strengthening defense capabilities and adapting to Middle East developments as key priorities, acknowledging the “unfortunate event” of TNT loss.

Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias arrived in Cyprus on Tuesday to meet President Nikos Christodoulides and his Cypriot counterpart Vasilis Palmas, following a drone strike on the British Bases at…

The Cypriot defence ministry is “taking all the necessary measures” in light of strikes carried out by the United States and Israel on Iran, minister Vasilis Palmas said on Saturday.