Overview
- Cyprus formally began its six‑month presidency of the Council of the European Union on January 1.
- President Volodymyr Zelensky congratulated President Nikos Christodoulidis, pressed for Ukraine to remain a top priority, and shared new details of contacts with U.S. partners.
- Foreign Minister Konstantinos Kombos pledged a "new approach" to Ukraine's accession talks and highlighted defense and migration as core files.
- Cyprus says it will also elevate issues tied to the broader Middle East, reflecting its regional outlook and experience.
- An official opening ceremony is scheduled for January 7 in Nicosia, as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed the presidency's focus on strengthening European autonomy and competitiveness.