Amid Sanctions Battle, Russia Courts Cyprus

Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades met with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, in Moscow on Feb. 25 and the two countries updated their bilateral military agreement. This agreement allows Russian naval vessels to use Cypriot ports for resupply and maintenance. Anastasiades said that Cyprus is Russia's most reliable partner in the European Union and criticized EU sanctions on Russia.

This meeting highlights Cyprus' need to balance between Russia and the West. It also showcases Moscow's interest in keeping good ties with strategic members of the European Union. While the Russian government understands that Cyprus has limited influence on European affairs, Moscow is counting on several EU members to provide support to end the sanctions against it. As the sanctions start to expire in March, Russia will need as much political support as possible.