4 September 2025 - The illegal detention of the 5 Greek Cypriots as a result of the unresolved Cypriot case
Volt expresses its deep concern about the recent developments in the case of the five Greek Cypriots, that is clearly politically motivated, and their illegal detention, with the current detention of the Turkish Cypriot lawyer. Innocent citizens have been caught up in a political confrontation, a result of the long-standing non-resolution of the Cyprus problem.
Beyond the main case, the process concerning the “illegal crossing”, with the number of witnesses and the exaggerated accusations, defies all logic. It is no coincidence that many Turkish Cypriots are also reacting to this set-up and have openly expressed their disagreement through social media platforms against the pressures surrounding freedom of expression.
Volt is closely following the cases and is physically present, standing by the families, being careful not to harm the five Greek Cypriots and their families with our public stance. At the same time, we salute the courageous people who did not hesitate to show their solidarity from the very beginning, especially journalist Pinar Barut, who is a source of crucial information on the issue.
We unequivocally condemn the illegal detention and ongoing unfair trials of five of our fellow citizens by the occupation regime. This development is yet another stark proof that the Cyprus issue must be resolved immediately, as such political maneuvers demonstrate the vulnerability of the so-called status quo, as well as the absence of international law from the northern part of the island.
We emphasize that the Republic of Cyprus is a member state of the European Union. All its citizens, whether living in the north or the south, are EU citizens, and the entire territory of the island is European. International protocols require fair, transparent and proportionate judicial procedures.
Everything we see unfolding is neither proportionate, nor fair. Volt calls on the EU, the Council of Europe and the United Nations to closely monitor the case and demand the immediate release of the detainees.
Volt will continue to react to any form of injustice stemming from the unresolved Cyprus problem and to work tirelessly for a just and sustainable solution to the Cyprus problem, which will ensure peace and justice for all citizens of the island.