Pompeo to Kathimerini: ''Cyprus must stand firm with the West''

Pompeo to Kathimerini: Cyprus Must Stand Firm with the West

In a wide-ranging interview, former U.S. Secretary of State and current Executive Chairman of Impact, Mike Pompeo, discussed the importance of Western unity and the shifting geopolitical balance in Ukraine and the Middle East. He emphasized the challenge posed by China and the significant role Cyprus plays in an increasingly complex global environment.

During his visit to Nicosia for the annual Economist Conference, Pompeo highlighted that small countries like Cyprus need to carefully navigate the pressures from competing powers. He advised aligning with trusted partners to reinforce their security and economic resilience. His comments reflect growing U.S. interest in the Eastern Mediterranean, especially concerning energy, defense, and regional cooperation.

Shifts in U.S. Foreign and Trade Policy

"President Trump is working hard to restore the deterrence that was lost under Joe Biden, just as we did after the failed foreign policy of the Obama years. There’s strong continuity between the first and second Trump administrations on foreign policy, and the dramatic changes now unfolding in the Middle East are part of that same course."

Pompeo emphasized the continuity between the Trump administrations, noting efforts to reinforce deterrence. He pointed to the maximum pressure campaign against Iran and the elimination of Quds Force Commander Qasem Soleimani as actions that weakened Tehran’s regional influence.

Pompeo on Regional Security

Washington is focusing heavily on the Eastern Mediterranean's strategic areas: energy, defense, and regional collaboration.
Cyprus is encouraged to strengthen ties with Western allies to face geopolitical challenges.
The U.S. continues to pursue policies aimed at curbing Iran’s power projection capabilities.

Kathimerini — 2025-11-10