Turkish research vessel heightens tensions

The statement by Prodromos Prodromou, spokesperson for DHSY party and a close associate of Cypriot president Nikos Anastasiadis, is indicative of the mood: “this provocation is worse that Imia [the Imia crisis of 1995]. Imagine what would have happened if Cyprus was some other country and had sent her navy to the spot. We would have war.”

The Turkish vessel reached 20 nautical miles off Kavo Graco and the course it was following showed it was conducting seismic research. Cypriot authorities remain on alert against any possibility.

The Barbaros Hayreddin Paşa is being escorted by two support vessels Bravo Support and Deep Supporter, while being shadowed by the Turkish navy frigate Gelibolu sailing just outside the Cypriot EEZ. The two escort ships were included in the Navtex issue by Ankara.

Earlier the Barbaros had turned about, but Turkish flagged Deep Supporter continued on its course, indicating Barbaros would soon again change course, The second support ship Norwegian flagged Bravo Support is following behind at a distance of 2 nautical miles.