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Kyiv Rejects Pressure to Surrender More Donbas Territory

  The Ukrainian delegation on the first day of the third round of the trilateral talks (with the US and Russia) in Geneva. Ukraine has firmly dismissed suggestions that it should concede additional territory in the Donbas region, despite reported pressure from the United States to consider territorial compromises as part of potential negotiations with Russia. Ukrainian officials reiterated that any settlement requiring the country to relinquish more land is unacceptable and incompatible with the principles of sovereignty and international law. Kyiv maintains that yielding territory would reward aggression and undermine long‑term security not only for Ukraine but for Europe as a whole. Ukrainian leaders argue that Russia’s continued military operations demonstrate that concessions would not bring peace, only encourage further demands. The U.S. has not publicly confirmed any push for territorial compromise, though some American officials have reportedly floated negotiation scenari...

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Cyprus: 50 Years of Division and Reflection

 

On July 20, 2024, Cyprus marked the 50th anniversary of the Turkish invasion, a pivotal event that has left the island divided ever since. The day was observed with a mix of solemn commemorations and celebratory events, reflecting the deep-seated divisions between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots.

At dawn, air raid sirens wailed across Nicosia and other cities, a stark reminder of the invasion that began on this day in 1974. Greek Cypriots mourned the loss and displacement caused by the invasion, with memorial services and moments of silence held to honor the fallen. President Nikos Christodoulides emphasized the importance of reflection and the pursuit of peace, urging for renewed dialogue to resolve the ongoing division.

In contrast, Turkish Cypriots in the north celebrated what they view as a liberation from Greek Cypriot control. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan attended a military parade in northern Nicosia, marking the event as a "peace and freedom operation". The celebrations included a display of military strength, symbolizing the enduring presence and support of Turkey in the region.

Despite recent improvements in relations between Greece and Turkey, the Cyprus issue remains a sensitive and unresolved matter. The island’s division continues to evoke strong emotions and differing narratives on both sides. Efforts for reunification have repeatedly stalled, with the last significant attempt collapsing seven years ago.

As Cyprus reflects on this significant milestone, the hope for a peaceful resolution remains, albeit tempered by the complexities of the past and present.



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