Tensions escalate in Cyprus waters

March 2020

France further intensified its strong military presence in the Eastern Mediterranean on Wednesday, in an effort to send a clear message of military might to all those who provoke Cyprus regarding its sovereign rights in the region.
The flagship of the French Navy, aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, escorted by six accompanying vessels and carrying a number of Rafale fighter jets, military helicopters and drones, sailed to block number eight in Cyprus’ Exclusive Economic Zone.
Block 8 has come under the spotlight in the last two weeks since it is the area where Turkey’s state-owned ”Yavuz” drillship is blatantly violating Cyprus’ continental shelf, drilling in search for natural gas resources.
Turkey, however, is not only violating Cyprus’ sovereign rights in the area but also infringes upon the rights of French and Italian energy giants ”Totale” and ”ENI” which have legal licenses granted by Nicosia to conduct drilling there.
Diplomatic tensions between Paris and Ankara have grown significantly over the recent period since the two nations are on opposing sides on many geopolitical developments in the broader region.
This move comes after the recent announcements by French President Macron and Greek Premier Mitsotakis that the two countries will soon work toward forming a defense pact which will further strengthen the already-excellent relations between Athens and Paris.
The ”Charles De Gaulle”, the largest aircraft carrier in Europe, docked at the port of Limassol in Cyprus last Thursday.
Other nations involved with their fleets around the island of Cyprus are, the United States, Italy, Great Briatain and Russia.

Greek Tribune