Interview with Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the Republic of Cyprus M.M.Zyazikov,

published in the newspaper “Simerini” on March 16, 2025

Main theses

On anti-Russian sanctions and the conflict in Ukraine

• We have repeatedly stressed that support for illegal anti-Russian sanctions, even for reasons of “Euro-Atlantic solidarity,” is disappointing.

• As the situation develops, Moscow makes adjustments to relations with states that have joined the “unfriendly” camp, either on their own initiative or under pressure from circumstances. At the same time, we always remain open to restoring constructive dialogue on equal and mutually respectful terms.

About the situation in Syria

• We consider it extremely important to stop the bloodshed in the country.

• In the difficult conditions of the transition period, maintaining national harmony and ensuring the security of all Syrian citizens, their rights and legitimate interests, regardless of nationality and religious affiliation, are of paramount importance.

Russia and the Eastern Mediterranean countries

• Our country is developing multi-format partnerships with all world capitals, which are open to establishing and maintaining them, and are ready to engage in constructive dialogue on a wide range of topics, taking into account the national interests of the parties.

• The emergence of new gas suppliers will not significantly change Russia’s strategic role in the European energy market.

• The countries of the region will have to focus on their own growing needs for natural gas and the development of national energy infrastructure.

Celebrating the 80th anniversary of Victory in Cyprus

• The Second World War became one of the greatest tragedies in the history of mankind. In Cyprus, we always feel the sincere support and deep understanding from our compatriots and local residents of the true meaning of the Victory over fascism.

• The Embassy and the Russian Center for Science and Culture in Nicosia, together with organizations of compatriots, are successfully implementing a range of thematic memorial, scientific, educational and cultural events aimed at honoring the landmark date for all of us – May 9th.

On the prospects of Russian-Cypriot relations

• Regular public opinion polls in Cyprus confirm the fact that the overwhelming majority of Cypriots are opposed to the imposed anti-Russian Western mainstream.

• Close historical, cultural and spiritual ties, as well as feelings of sincere mutual sympathy between our peoples, will eventually allow our countries to move to a qualitatively new stage in the development of constructive bilateral cooperation at all levels and in all areas within the framework of the emerging just multipolar world order, taking into account current geopolitical changes.

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https://cyprus.mid.ru/ru/press-centre/news/intervyu_simerini_16032025/