Russian Foreign Policy towards Cyprus:

A Comprehensive Analysis of Contemporary Relations

Abstract

Cyprus is an important area for Russian foreign policy, as developments in the Eastern Mediterranean, where the island is located, affect Moscow’s strategic interests. This article analyzes and interprets the diplomatic, political, economic, energy, and geostrategic aspects of Russian foreign policy towards Cyprus. It identifies the motives behind Russian behavior towards the Republic of Cyprus (RoC) and concludes that, despite generally good diplomatic and friendly relations, the two states have differing geostrategic interests. Given that the defense of Russia’s national interests, in relation to Cyprus and the Eastern Mediterranean, is a priority for Moscow, the article concludes with assessments of future trends, including the developments in the Russian-Ukrainian war and its consequences, which have negatively affected the relations between the two states.