As we witness the tragic events in Ukraine due to the illegal invasion by Russia, we remind everyone that the first invasion in Europe was July 20, 1974 by a pre-meditated invasion of the Republic of Cyprus by Turkey.
On the pretext of protecting the 18% Turkish minority, but in reality for geopolitical and military reasons, Turkey violated American law, UN Resolutions and unleashed a brutal invasion killing thousands, creating 200,000 refugees and 49 years later, still illegally occupies 36% of the territory of the Republic of Cyprus, a member of the European Union.
The double standard between world reaction of Ukraine and Cyprus has shaken our faith in Democratic principles, human rights and the effectiveness of the United Nations. We call on President Biden, leader of the free world, and UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, to finally hold Turkey accountable and end the 49 year occupation of 36% of the Republic of Cyprus.
Philip Christopher
President
