France is deploying anti-missile systems, anti-drone defenses, and a frigate to Cyprus to bolster the island’s defense capabilities following recent drone attacks. According to reports, Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides was briefed early Tuesday (03.03.2026) by French President Emmanuel Macron — with whom he had held two phone calls on Monday — during which Christodoulides formally requested assistance for Cyprus.
Escalating Regional Tensions
The island has faced drone attacks in the wake of escalating hostilities in the Middle East. Macron informed Christodoulides that France would dispatch the aforementioned defense systems and one frigate immediately, with a second frigate expected to follow shortly.
Germany Also Expected to Contribute
Christodoulides also raised the request for naval support with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during their Monday phone call. Merz responded positively, and a formal decision from the German government is expected imminently.