Clarifying U.S. Troop Deployments to Cyprus Amid Coronavirus

Recently, a claim has circulated concerning the potential deployment of U.S. troops from California to Cyprus. This article seeks to clarify this rumor and provide accurate information regarding military movements and deployments.

1. The Freeze on U.S. Troop Movements

The primary reason underlying the claim is the temporary suspension of all U.S. troop movements due to the Coronavirus pandemic. On March 25, 2020, U.S. Defense Secretary announced a freeze on all troop movements, covering approximately 60 days. This directive has been widely reported in public media and emphasizes the precautionary measures taken to contain the spread of the virus.

Source: US Defense Secretary Orders Freeze on All Troop Movements Amid COVID-19

2. Reasons for No Military Deployment to Cyprus

There are several reasons why U.S. troops would not be deployed to Cyprus. The first is the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, which has prompted the suspension of all troop movements. Secondly, there is no strategic or military reason for U.S. troops to be sent to Cyprus. The island has been stable and secure due to its international status under the 1959 Zürich and London Agreements, which includes the presence of a United Nations Peacekeeping Force.

3. Official Channels for Military Announcements

Military deployments and movements are typically announced through official channels such as service newspapers and the Pentagon's public website. Services such as the Army Times, Air Force Times, Navy Times, and Marine Times are reliable sources for updates on troop movements and deployments.

Source: Army Times, Air Force Times, Navy Times, Marine Corps Times

4. United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Cyprus

While it is true that the United Nations has a presence in Cyprus, the U.S. does not volunteer troops for such missions. The U.S. policy is to avoid placing its troops under foreign command or the restrictive rules of engagement of UN peacekeeping missions. Additionally, the U.S. does not want its troops to be exposed to the jurisdiction of the UN Criminal Court.

The United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus currently consists of around 858 troops from various countries, including Argentina, Austria, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Ghana, Hungary, Paraguay, Peru, Serbia, Slovakia, and the United Kingdom.

5. Other Foreign Troops in Cyprus

In addition to the United Nations Peacekeeping Force, there are other foreign troops in Cyprus. The British military maintains presence in the Sovereign Base Areas, and there are also Turkish troops stationed in Northern Cyprus.

My thanks to Anthony Morgan for reminding us of the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Cyprus.

Source: UN Peacekeeping Forces in Cyprus

Conclusion

It is clear that no U.S. troops from California will be deploying to Cyprus in the near future. This decision is influenced by the global health situation and the U.S. policy of strategic military deployments.