The government publicly expressed strong dissatisfaction with the United Kingdom on Monday over the absence of what it described as “clear and timely assurances” that the British bases on the island would not be used for any purpose other than humanitarian activity, following the overnight drone strike at the Akrotiri base.

Speaking after an extended meeting of the national council, government spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis said Nicosia had expected unequivocal clarification from Whitehall, particularly after statements made by the UK prime minister, but found the messaging insufficient.

“It is something that we view with dissatisfaction,” Letymbiotis lamented.

“Despite the assurances given in yesterday’s address by the prime minister of the United Kingdom, there was no clear clarification that the British Bases in Cyprus would not under any circumstances be used for any reason other than humanitarian.”