Before referendum on April 24, on April 21 2004, common resolution that have offered to United Nations’ Security Council by USA and Britain with the aim of guaranteeing implementation of Annan Plan regarding Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots was vetoed by Russian Federation. This veto demonstrated that essentially, Moscow’s role on Cyprus issue is more important than it appears. Although Russian Federation has potential for the playing important role in the solution of the Cyprus issue that is one of the prior sensitivity of Turkey, Russian Federation’s position has been ignored up to now and there is not any critical work about this issue even in academic level. Want of information about Moscow’s Cyprus politics leads to false valuation of its position. Actually, when this problem occurs, Soviet Union - predecessor of Russia – was despite being a global actor, it was isolated from Cyprus issue by leaving out the peace forces on the island. In the elapsed time, in the framework of this issue, Russia had no much more role except that commercial cooperation with Greek Cypriots and placement of the S-300 missiles on the Greek Cypriot part of the island. With the dissolution of the USSR and lost to global power status, Russian Federation has already deal with its own problems so; Cyprus problem has always been Russia’s edge and / or has been left. However, with Vladimir Putin who took over power from Boris Yeltsin on the last day of the 1999 and makes Russia a regional power, Moscow has started initiatives to play an active role in the solution of the Cyprus problem.

 

2004 has been a very active year for Cyprus issue regarding Moscow’s reengagement of this issue and global developments. While Annan Plan was submitted to two segments of plebiscite in 2004, with the rejection of the Greek Cypriots, Cyprus became a member of the European Union (EU).

 

Regarding Cyprus issue, initiatives between Russian Federation and Ankara started with official visit of Abdullah Gül, the minister of foreign affairs, to Moscow. In this visit of Gül, he was accepted by Igor Ivanov, the minister of foreign affairs, some members of the parliament as well as President Vladimir Putin. In this visit, the minister of foreign affairs, Abdullah Gül, wanted to support of the Russia for solution efforts in parallel with rapidly increase economic and commercial relations.   

 

In this visit that occurred before the referendum that would be held on 24 April 2004 at the same time in two parts of the Cyprus and Cyprus resolution that would be voted in United Nations’ Security Council on 21 April 2008, Russia’s support regarding Cyprus was wanted but this support did not come from Russia. Indeed, on 20 April 2004, the day before the voting in United Nation’s Security Council, minister of foreign affairs of Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus, Yorgo Yakovu met with minister of foreign affairs of Russian Federation, Sergey Lavrov in Moscow. Lavrov made a statement after the talks. In this statement, there were mutual exchange of ideas and they are in favor of the solution of this issue in the framework of mutual agreement and United Nations’ Security Council resolutions. In addition, Lavrov mentioned that’s EU membership was evaluated by virtue of many years of friendly relations between and Russia and which Cyprus would be member of the EU is important for Moscow. He declared that they are against taking any decision before referendum by signaling they would veto.

 

Although 14 members of 15 members of United Nations’ Security Council accepted Cyprus project, Russian Federation being as a permanent member of the united nations security council vetoed it.

 

Resolution that provides establishing a new UN peace force on the island in the framework of UN Secretary General Kofi Annan’s offer refers to 7^th section of the UN Permanent Status. Referring to 41^st article of the 7^th section arranges to activate decisions for any kind of communication of the region and to take measures to stop diplomatic relations partly and wholly; article of 42^nd signifies if these measurements are insufficient, Security Council can set going its air, land, and sea force. These referring articles in resolution pass the aim of guaranteeing applicability and practicability of Annan Plan and it means to accept warfare even integrity has not already provided on the island. On the other hand, this resolution discussed in the Security Council, Turkish Guarantor changing its form with the Annan Plan makes neutralize in accordance with this articles and makes Turkey inactive. Although that resolution would not make any changes the situation of Turkish Armed Forces that would remain on the island, it is a formal document that restricts mobility quality of Turkish Armed Forces. The resolution makes certain of guarantor statue and obligations of Turkey that was gained with London and Zurich Agreement (1959) would be transferred to UN Peace Forces before integrity on the island. Even though Foreign Minister of Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus, Yorgo Yakovu’s Moscow visit is believed to be effective on the veto decision; it should not be forget that Russia’s own reasons were enough to take this decision.

Different reactions have emerged regarding veto on Cyprus issue in the UN Security Council. Despite Russia’s veto on resolution regarding Cyprus issue in the UN Security Council, UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan said international society still supports to Cyprus plan. He said that “even if Russia would not participate in negotiations, Russia declared that this due to some technical reasons and it is not relevant to the content.” In addition, Annan said “I believe that international society presented by UN Security Council should give messages that they support the efforts to integrate the islands.

 

Bush administration that offered Cyprus decision to UN Security Council with Britain, noted that they annoyed due to Russia’s veto decision. However, Washington forced to vote although in the beginning Moscow declared its intention and claimed that messages given by 14 members of 15 members in the UN Security Council is important to take seriously by two parties on the island.

 

USA foreign ministry spokesman Boucher said they are worry about that one of the members of UN Security Council did not act in accordance with General Secretary and Russia hesitated to give guaranty regarding making ready to the security mechanism of the envisaged solution agreement before referendum on 24 April in Security Council. Spokesman declared on the basis of 14 members give this message clearly, “if Cypriots accepted this resolution on Saturday, a quick attempt would be initiated and embargo on arms on the island would be implemented and quick establishment of the UN commission that responsible for implementation of the agreement would occur.”

 

The British and American diplomats are most frustrated because of veto of the resolution. UN Permanent Representative Deputy of Britain, Adam Thomson said none of the countries including Russia are not oppose to content of the resolution, just there is a different ideas regarding procedures and timing. UN Permanent Representative Assistant of USA, James Cunningham declared that majority of the council members support the resolution and if positive decision is taken, Council would take security precaution regarding Cyprus.

 

Greek administration’s UN representative Greek Ambassodor Andreas Mavroyiannis claims that Moscow, Britain and America just try to smooth and save the interests of Turkey, for this reason they vetoed the decision.

 

Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) President declared that he was glad and Denktas said that “if Russia did not intervene, our end might be disaster. God bless Russia.” He added also that Russia showed that world is not unipolar by tricking of Britain and America.

 

TRNC prime minister assistant and foreign affairs minister Serdar Denktas said that he agrees with President and he evaluated Russia’s reaction positively.

 

Russia’s Athena Ambassador A. Dovin said that his country is ready to help both sides regarding Cyprus issue in the framework of Security Council.

 

After referendum on 24 April 2004, Russia Federation Foreign Affairs Ministry Cyprus special representative A.V. Yakovenko declared an explanation regarding financial aid to TRNC on 29 April 2004. In this statement, a need for financial aid to TRNC and lift up embargos on TRNC and eliminating the differences between the two sides was declared. Moreover, the need of solving Cyprus issue in the framework of UN principles was emphasized.

 

In the statement regarding referendum results by Russian Foreign Affairs Ministry on 26 April 2004, both of the two sides explained their democratic views and Russia accepts results respectively. Russian Federation Ministry of Foreign Affairs declared that it does not mean this referendum results would end UN mission on this issue.

 

Russian authorities declared that they see resolution regarding Cyprus issue as an initiative to affect the results’ so they vetoed it. Russia’s UN permanent representative assistant, Ambassador Gennadiy Gatilov supported that USA and Britain tried to have to make decision rapidly before 3 days from referendum in Cyprus; it could be done only after sides accepted the plan. Gatilov said Cyprus society should vote without any international intervention and pressure. He added resolution is very complex legally and technically and they need more time to investigate carefully. He made a statement and said that “… but those who offered resolution did not take into account our demand, so we have no choice another than using the technique veto.”

 

Ambassador Gennadiy Gatilov declared that resolution was vetoed for technical reasons not because of the political reason. Actually, Russia’s veto decision did not a surprise. This possibility was declared before by Russian authorities. Russia declared that UN Security Council’s decision before April 24, 2004 would be an intervention that might affect the results of the referendum.

 

On April 1, GKRY Moscow Ambassador met regarding Russia’s approach in Russian Federation Foreign Affairs Ministry. Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus is worry concerning moderate approaches of international community especially USA and Britain and Greek side saw the only escape way is Russia’s veto card. By this aim, Greek side Foreign Affairs Minister Yakovu visited Moscow in April 20 and met with Russian Federation Foreign Affairs Minister Sergey Lavrov. GKRY’s diplomatic relations with Moscow are also influential to Russia’s veto decision become clear. An interesting criticizing came from USSR former Ankara Ambassador Albert Cernisev. Çernişev said that they wanted to take our money in Southern Cyprus. Bringing project was not a step that is taken by Turkey. “Now, issue is humanitarian so we tried to explain. Our approach to Cyprus issue softened” he said. Russia has used veto rights and it was accused of initiation of saving its 40$ billion.

 

It should be realized that Russia did not use its veto right in 10 years and did not veto any resolution supported by USA but using veto “trump” for Cyprus issue cannot be due to technical reasons. Russia’s negative approach concerning Cyprus issue has economic, politic and military reasons.

 

It is possible to make comments and evaluations concerning reasons of Russia’s veto. However, the primary reasons might be warning other countries about need of consultation to Russia regarding Cyprus issue and Russia’s concern about any possibility to find similarities between Chechnya- Cyprus issues. Russia declared that it interprets decision as “fait accompli” and said it would veto before the decision is brought in Council. Nevertheless, decision is brought to UN agenda and it is perceived as Russia is taken seriously. Therefore, Russia used its veto “trump” because of Cyprus issue and also it said that “here I am” in international conflicts. Actually, it was risky that Russia uses its veto right in basic issues such as Iraq and Afghanistan and finds a place in international arena. A wrong move may be paid strategic prices. However, Cyprus issue is not a primary concern for Russia and Russia’s veto on Cyprus issue can be perceived as an indicator of Russia’s demand for being a global actor.

 

Another political reason of Russian veto is Orthodox ties and allies’ traditional relations with Greece and open support for Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus that tends to say no in referendum. If UN Security Council takes decision before referendum on April 24, create pressure on Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus administration both in its internal relations and also among global actors. Moscow saved its “historical allies from external pressure as a shield in their most difficult time by providing this support.” International Security Center President and history doctor Aleksey Arbatov’s evaluation is very interesting. Arbatov evaluates Russian’s veto decision: “if UN Security Council resolution is accepted, there would be possibility to pressure on Cypriots in April referendum. Cyprus Republic is fully entitled member of UN and this appropriate for Russia’s interests. It’s only alternative is Turkey’s control over Cyprus but there is no political or economic reason that Russia demands it. ”

 

Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus is become “port” for Russia’s finance aristocracy and Russia has almost 20 thousands Russian origin off-shore firms. Although not all high rate recorded firms are in action, treaty between Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus and Russia prevent double taxation make increase numbers of Russian origin firms thanks to this treaty. Russian firms in Cyprus did not give tax to countries in which it they are active. For that, Russian capital generally black money that accumulates in Cyprus turn back to the Russia as investment and for Russian economy especially Russian high level bureaucracy gained support. This illegal economic and trade relations may lead to giving support to Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus by Russia.

 

Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus that become the most popular center among Russian businessman, last July, it faces to lose its importance with an approval of its new tax reform by its parliament. New legislation that offers abandonment of implementation regarding Southern Cyprus’ off-shore accounts has been came into effective since January 1, 2003. It is the only condition to participate in EU in 2004. With the participation of Southern Cyprus in May 1, 2004, Russian capital intended to withdraw from Cyprus. New legislation not allow to movement of Russian capital in Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus. For this reason, the possibility of Russian firms moving on Turkish part of Cyprus where EU conditions would not be implemented from European part of Cyprus has emerged.

 

Russia is one of the primary countries that sell arms, it takes guarantee its own arm market by vetoing an armed embargo in the situation of a new integration in Security Council and resolution that has condition for security guarantee.

 

Cyprus tried to provide its security by military- technique so it cooperates with Russia. With the military treaty between Russia and Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus, Greeks have had Russian made tanks, armored vehicles, air defense systems and S-300 type missile systems that were placed on Crete island of Greece.

 

Despite being NATO countries, Cyprus and especially Greeks gave place to Russian arms and they are west countries that did not cut their warm relations with Russia because of the Orthodox ties. Moreover, S-300 Crisis that brings Turkey and Greek on the verge of a war indirectly began with selling of this missile system to Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus by Russia.

 

The resolution at the end of the negotiations offered for public opinion separately but synchronous on April 24, 2004 in TRNC and Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus.75.83 % of Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus rejected the plan and 64.91% of Turkish Cypriots said “yes” to plan despite of its difficulties. Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus leader Papadopulos’ address to people and his calling for people to say “no” and Greek leaders no company that has been organized by government support was influential to Greek side’s rejection to Plan. Thus, the plan that is supported by international organizations including UN and EU become invalid. After plan become invalid and attempts for integration of the island become without any result. Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus has become full member of EU under the name of “Cyprus Republic”.

 

Although Russia vetoed his declaration, in the face of “no” vote of Greeks “yes” is said by Turks in referendum in 24 April, the necessity to make some arrangements emerged in Moscow’s Cyprus politics. Russia encouraged Tasos Papadopulos who called society to use “no” vote on Annan Plan that laid down integration of the island. So, Russia has begun to attempt to determine a new politics regarding Cyprus issue. On June 2004, in the meeting between Russian Foreign Affairs Minister Sergey Lavrov on Turkish Foreign Affairs Minister Abdullah Gül, he would not prevent Russian firms that want to invest in TRNC. Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has changed its route by calling to economic financial help to Turkish Cypriot part.

 

Anadolu Agency asked Russian Federation Foreign Affairs Minister Sergey Lavrov that “What is the Russia’s approach to the solution of the Cyprus problem?” Russian Foreign Affairs Minister explained a new approach to Moscow as such. “Russia’s approach in Cyprus solution is stable.” We are ready to cooperation with both Cyprus side and other countries to provide comprehensive, sustainable and fair solution regarding UN decision and in the framework of UN General Secretary’s good intention mission.

 

We act voluntarily for the quest for recondition by taking in to account of both Greeks’ and Turks’ legitimate interests and concerns in Cyprus. Russia supports steps towards economic and financial aid to Turkish Cyprus. These aids should be provided under the condition that establishment of international mechanisms which will not violate UN decisions regarding Cyprus.  

 

 

 Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) had a strong call regarding removal of isolation implemented on Turkish Cyprus in Conference of Foreign Ministers in Istanbul between 14-16 Junes. In addition, OIC took decision to call TRNC “Turkish Cypriot State” rather than “Muslim Turkish Cypriot community”. In the 9^th paragraph of Cyprus part of Istanbul Declaration that published after the conference, explains that it decided to take measures to end unfair isolation implemented to Turkish Cypriot by other member countries and it called international community to act in this way.

 

First signals regarding changes in Russia’s Cyprus politics were given by Russia Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov who had been in Istanbul because of OIC’s 31^st term foreign ministers meeting. Russia Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov came to Turkey between 14-16 Junes and made written statement. Lavrov said” We act voluntarily for the quest for recondition by taking in to account of both Greeks’ and Turks’ legitimate interests and concerns in Cyprus. Russia supports steps towards economic and financial aid to Turkish Cyprus. These aids should be provided under the condition that establishment of international mechanisms which will not violate UN decisions regarding Cyprus.” Lavrov met TRNC Prime Minister Mehmet Ali Talat and Foreign Affairs Minister Serdar Denktas. Lavrov’s directly meeting with Talat and Denktas is important step for Russia’s perspective on Cyprus issue. Making this meeting is more important than what is discussing in this meeting. This meeting is as an indicator of change in Russia’s foreign politics that supports classically Cyprus Greek part. After that, different level of foreign affairs bureaucracy made statements regarding removal of economic embargos implemented on TRNC. Although in Greece and Greek Cyprus media, there is no news related to Russia’s policy change, Moscow’s new Cyprus policy’s lines were getting clear, after President Putin declared that they would not veto to Annan Plan and they formed a new policy towards TRNC. Lavrov’s these statement and attempts are important taking account to previous classic Russia foreign policy supports Greek Cyprus in all international arenas. Moscow changed its politics in favor of Turkish Cypriots.

 

Now, tending of Russia’s diplomatic activities to Turkish Cypriots and empowerment of Turkey’s place in OIC may change situation in divided island in favor of Turks. There are important reasons in Russia’s approach; Russia’s demand to strengthen its power and place in OIC and among Muslim countries. In addition, Russia’s demand befit when Turkey had powerful position in OIC so, Russia did not want to oppose to Ankara in this conjecture. Moreover, Russia came to meeting with Ankara’s special invitation and Turkey had important role and support for Russia’s observer status initiation. On the other hand, Russia has severe problems with Arab world due to Chechen issue and Russia needs support of Turkey that is powerful country in this period. In addition to that, Russia played important role in changing approach towards TRNC in UN decisions and international arena and recognition of TRNC as “Cyprus Turkish Republic” by OIC.

 

Russia’s UN Security Council Permanent Member status makes important Turkish-Russian relations regarding Cyprus issue. As known, Kremlin acts traditionally in favor of Greek Cyprus in their Cyprus politics, at the same time, Russia ground poll for policy changing in OIC meeting with the initiation of Foreign Affairs Minister. Turkey become gradually important place for Moscow’s viewpoint because of Russia’s diplomatic activities are toward Turkish Cypriots and Turkey’s more active foreign policy especially in Middle East region.

 

Actually, Russia’s political change towards Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus has emerged gradually. Russia’s first warning come from Sergey Lavrov who knows Cyprus issue very well in March 2004. Russia Foreign Affairs Minister appealed related to Annan Plan and said that they were disappointed because Greece and Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus accepted UN General Security top referee that submit pressure from British and Americans rather than Russia’s top referee.

 

Actually, after Cyprus’ UN membership and increase in Russian- Turkish economic and political relations accommodate to new economic and strategic data and forming more moderate point of view towards Turkish thesis, it is unavoidable development that mean establish new balances. However, the level of this changing and “whether Russia’s main thesis do change or not?”emerged to make it clear.

 

After EU gave a date to Turkey on December 17, 2004 and Eurasian Union discussions in Turkey’s agenda, views of Eurasian developers in Russian Federation changed seriously. Especially, international Eurasian Movement High Council and Geopolitics Investigation Center that depend on Russia’s Duma- President Aleksandr G. Dugin’s approaches towards Turkey and Cyprus drew attention from Turkey, Cyprus and Moscow.

 

After Russia’s veto, on April 22, 2004, Dugin explained reasons behind Russia’s veto decision on Eho Moskvi Radio and he explained clearly Russian Eurasian developer’s views towards Cyprus issue. In Dugin’s explanation, there are interesting things regarding to Turkish international affairs. According to Dugin, national forces in Turkey, gradually gets away from USA and EU accession perspectives. Globalization and unipolar world are two threats against Turkey’s sovereignty. Northern Cyprus issue and Kurdistan issue become most caustic for Turkey. Russia follows an advisedly and pioneer geopolitical approach with the veto decision. This veto is useful for Northern Cyprus and Rauf Denktas. Dugin said that Russia has supported Greek side up to now but now there is possibility to support Turkey because Cyprus issue and Caucasus issue have similar features.

 

Politics and Military Analysis Institute director and military academy academician Prof. Dr. Aleksandr Saravin and Dugin discussed Russia’s veto and Dugin’s statement was different from Russian Federation Foreign Affairs Ministry’s statements. Dugin said that I think Russia’s veto has geopolitics background. I want to draw your attentions, this solution is prepared by two Anglo- Saxon countries’ initiatives – USA and Britain and it carries an aim to reinforce unipolar society in the world especially in Mediterranean. This solution is an initiative to solve Cyprus issue according to American scenario.

 

 Referendum is not democratic it is democracy enforcing peace enforcing, peace enforcing. Narrator said that so, you do not agree with Foreign Affairs Ministry because they said that veto has not a political background. Dugin said that he wholly agrees with Foreign Affairs Ministry, all explanations have geopolitical reason but it is not gave voice in diplomacy. Military expert A. Saravin said that this is serious political issue and it obviously has political basis and this is not serious to explain it because of technical reasons. “Diplomacy is always diplomacy.” he said.

 

Dugin and Russian Eurasian developers sometimes visit Turkey and TRNC and declare their views on Cyprus issue and generally declare ideas close to Turkish thesis. Dugin has visited Cyprus and met with President Denktas and said that there have been some changes in Russian Federation politics regarding Cyprus issue. However, concrete implementations of these changes have not determined yet.

 

Aleksander Dugin led to worries of Greek side because of these speeches both in Turkey and in Cyprus. Especially, after Greek newspapers made this issue headlines, Southern Cyprus Russian Ambassador’s speaker have to make a statement. In this statement, embassy said that Russia’s view on solution of Cyprus issue did not change and “USA-Russia cooperation” news in Greek media is misinformation. Russian speaker said that Dugin is a politics analyzer who goes to Turkey by Turkey’s invitation to work in Europe- Asian Forum and views that he gave Turkish media are his personal views. According to Haravgi and other Greek newspapers, Alexander Dugin is not in Russia President Vladimir Putin’s advisor and he is not in Russian official delegations that have visited Turkey.

 

Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus fluttered because Turkish- Russian relations become closer and Russian signaled that it would implement politics supported TRNC in its Cyprus politics. Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus authorities initiated some provocateur actions to break Turkey- Russian relation in a flurry. For this purpose, Chechnya issue that is one of the most sensitive issue for Russia and “soft belly” for Turkey was selected. Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus Justice Minister Doros Teodoru interviewed with Greek Fileleftheros newspaper on September, 2004 and he said that international terrorists settled down and trained in Minister said that these Chechens are in TRNC Minister said that these Chechens are in TRNC because of illegal activities such as terrorism, training money laundering. Moreover, the terrorists who allocated to school in Northern Ossetia’s Beslan city might train in these camps. Teodoru wanted to a report by investigating Chechen illegal activities. This report would be prepared by Greek Intelligence Organization, police and Central Bank and after this report is submitted Council of Ministers, it would be sent to EU and USA. In addition, Teodoru said that they have information about attack plan for Russia’s Nicosia Embassy.

 

Teodoru is known “hawk wing” of solution for Cyprus issue and Teodoru’s claim for terrorist camps in TRNC was impugned by TRNC in a harsh language. TRNC President Rauf Denktas rejected these claims are propaganda and they try to camouflage Greek support for Kurdistan Workers’ Party. TRNC Prime Minister Mehmet Ali Talat said to Russian İzvestiya newspaper that the statement is about paranoia. It can be said that Teodoru’s claim about Chechen terror camps aim to put TRNC in a difficult position USA, Europe and especially in view of Russia. It is wanted to prepare a report for sending USA and EU official channels in order to affect their sensibility concerning terror issue.

 

Especially, after Greek newspapers made this statement headline Russia Embassy speaker had to make a statement. Especially, emphasizing on Chechen terrorists claim aims to prevent good relations between Russia and Turkey and Russia’s softened TRNC approach. Russia’s traditional Cyprus policy is to support Greek administration and see this administration in one administrations of the island and opposed to Turkey and TRNC. However, with Annan Plan that was American patent and EU support and Cyprus issues’ solution without Russia led to Russia’s realizing importance of Turk side (Turkey and TRNC) besides Greek side to made Annan Plan fail? Actually, Russia informed Turkey concerning its decision to veto in UN Security Council on April 24, 2004. Moreover, Russia President Vladimir Putin said in his statement in Turkish newspaper they took their decision after they had met with Ankara. Thus, when Russia declared its war on terrorism policy, Teodoru’s claim aims to prevent Russia’s soft approach towards TRNC and Turkey-Russian relations.

 

 

Russian President said that they think economic isolation on TRNC is not fair. Putin declared that we met with Kofi Annan regarding developing economic relations with Northern Cyprus and lefting up of embargo implemented for long term. Furthermore, mid of 90’s, Putin was visited TRNC so he is master of subject and he used Southern Cyprus- Turkish terminology instead of Cyprus Republic.

 

Although Putin made statements that please Turkey in Erdogan’s visiting, he abstains to make a clear statement about report regarding lifting up embargo towards Turkey. Putin abstains to give clear answer to Turkish journalists’ question about Russia’s vote in UN Security Council and say it depends on which text would be come to vote.  

 

Russian President declared that his country would cooperate with all sides including Turkey. This explanation firstly in Turkish media after Greek media began to discuss. In Turkish media, Putin’s call on UN General Secretary Kofi Annan is “surprising” development and it gave places to news related to Russia’s support for Turkey. However, if this issue was investigated more deeply, it would be understood that Russia had not a serious changed policy or Putin’s calling of Kofi Annan was not a surprise.

 

In the Russian president’s Ankara visiting between 5-6 December 2004, Recep Tayyip Erdogan wanted to Russia would not be against to lifting up embargos implemented towards Turkish Cypriots. Then Putin called Kofi Annan “behind closed doors” and said him they will support next attempts. For that reason, President Putin met with Annan because he gave promise in Ankara. Thus, there is no surprise.

 

After Putin’s Ankara visiting, Greece Prime Minister Kostos Karamanlis visited Moscow and this meeting Putin said similar expressions. He emphasized solution should satisfy both sides. In this meeting, Putin said that we declared our view regarding Cyprus in the framework UN Security Council decisions and plan offered by UN General Secretary. Putin declared Cyprus issue should be solved by realizing interests of both sides.

 

Before referendum in Cyprus, Putin made a statement regarding Russia’s veto right in UN Security Council. He also said Russia vetoed opposed and informed Turkey previously related to this issue. Russian President we did it consciously because of preventing any external effects to referendum not because of blocking to take decision.

 

Putin’s this statement shows that Russia informed Ankara to issue of Russia’s veto to resolution. Actually, similar statement came from Russia’s Ankara Ambassador Petr Stegniy. On August 2004, Stegniy said that Russia’s veto was wanted indirectly from Turkish government played carefully “Russia card” and wanted to Greek’s “no” to escape from Cyprus issue and open ways to EU. However, Russia’s April veto was useful for Turkey or Greek is discussable. Still, there are people those who supports this veto effects negatively and positively to Turkey and TRNC.

 

The most reactive response to Putin’s statements comes from TRNC President Rauf Denktas. Denktas declared that Russian president Vladimir Putin’s statements related to their supports to Annan Plan make to their supports to Annan Plan make Denktas surprise and sad at the same time. He said Annan Plan is removed because of Greek’s rejection and although Putin mentioned lifting up embargo and ending of isolation. He said they support Annan plan. This statement made us sad. Denktas said that Turkish sites acceptance of Annan plan should not be evaluated as giving up from state and sovereignty. We will integrate Greeks. Putin statement regarded support for Annan plan made us surprise said Denktas. Previously Putin said that Cyprus issue can be solved between two societies external intervention is not desirable and Denktas said this as a more realistic approach. He said to solve Cyprus issue, it would be said to Greeks that Turkish Cypriot has no government and would not be and people who live in the north are independent society. President Denktas said people who have sovereignty would not give up from their sovereignty. It is wanted from us. Turkish Cypriot people are also honorable society. They would not do that. TRNC president Rauf Denktas mentioned that his ideas about Annan plan and he does not accept Turkey’s support to this plan in his book “Cyprus would not be Crete”.

 

Prime Minister Erdogan said that Russia is an important country we hope these declarations create new options regarding Cyprus issue as response to Putin’s statement. He focused mainly on Annan plan and said content of plan is important rather than its name for the solution of Cyprus. Denktas reaction to Putin’s supportive statements towards Turkey regarding Cyprus issue was remembered to Erdogan and it was asked to him what would be Turkey’s step after that and is there any oppositions between Denktas and Turkey. Erdogan responded that “I think we have difficult to understand something in here. Undoubtedly there would not be an Annan plan existence. It is not important whether it’s name Annan or not. The important thing is its content and this content should offer a solution. I believe no one would be against this plan that includes solution. It is important whether its name is Annan plan or not. If a person that has a status and does anything gives his/her name to it. It is a tradition.”

 

Erdogan said that they will support Russia’s membership to World Trade Organization in Davos on January 24 as a response to Putin’s statement about unfair embargo on TRNC.

 

TRNC PM Mehmet Ali Talat declared that he is glad for Russia’s approach and president Putin’s last statements. He also said this is an important development that supports our combat regarding lifting up isolations. Russia’s approach in Security Council would be so important in our right demand so positive signs came regarding this issue.

 

Greek media was also in bustle because of exaggeration of Putin’s statements by Turkish media. When Greek media claimed that Turkish media exaggerate Putin’s statement at the same time some media organs occurred in Russia. Makarios Drusiotis article in Politis newspaper is important for Russia to derive a lesson. Drusiotis wrote in his article “History teaches us that Soviet Russia or Russia has no interests in Cyprus except from laundering and arm trade. Soviet Russia was closer to Turkey rather than Cyprus. England has been the most trusted alliance of Cyprus since 1960s compared with Russia. President Vladimir Putin’s statement led to anxiousness in Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus. There were different views on whether Russia had changed its Cyprus policies or not in Greece and Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus government and opposition wing. While government declared that statements of president Vladimir Putin should not led any worries and Moscow’s attitude towards Cyprus issue has not change, opposition wing declared they worry about Putin’s statement. Greek side’s leader Tassos Papadopulos made a statement and said that “I believe that Russia’s support to us regarding Cyprus issue based on principles I think Russia will continue to its policy and support for our thesis.

 

Government representative Kipros Hrisostamid has also declared he had followed the developments regarding Turkish republic PM Recep Tayyip Erdogan visiting. He emphasized that relation between Cyprus republic and Russian federation. Greek government representative said “we evaluated and took note from Putin’s statements.”

 

Greek government republic assistance Evangelos Andonaros said that Greek government waits Turkish PM Erdogan’s Moscow visiting to be informed about Erdogan’s visit and then evaluates them. Now what we have are from news agency and newspapers but the information that come from Greek government would be formal. Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus newspaper compared Greek PM Karamanlis’ Moscow visiting in December 2004 with Erdogan’s Moscow visiting in January 10, 2005 and claimed that Erdogan’s visiting was more successful than Karamanlis.

 

 

Trade and economic relations between Turkey and Russia is increasing and this affects political relations. Moreover, these relations reflect common issues such as Cyprus issue. When thinking about “Real Politics” Turkey also has gained importance at least Greece and Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus have. At this point, there are signs regarding requirement of solving this issue. Especially, “Shuttle Diplomacy” that has brought by PM Erdogan to Russia regarding Cyprus issue began to give its fruits, although it had not affect on basic issues.

 

The most important of PM Erdogan’s visit to Moscow was participation of TRNC Industry and Trade Chamber President Salih Tunar’s in Turkish delegation. According to Russian’s sources, Salih Tunar is in the general list but he participates in the list who would meet with Putin. Russian government missed this point. When Tunar said he wants to talk Putin’s gesture to him and let him to talk. TRNC Industry and Trade Chamber President Salih Tunar want support from Putin to lift up isolations on Turkish Cyprus side. He said that this contribution means also a contribution to peace in the region and emphasized that TRNC is available in tourism investment. TRNC Industry and Trade Chamber President Salih Tunar’s participation and speech in Erdogan’s delegations have a symbolic meaning. Undoubtedly it does not mean de facto recognition but Moscow’s visa for Salih Tunar’s speech is an important development. There is a rumor that Russian former prime minister and Russian Trade and Industry minister Yevgeni Primakov plans to visit northern Cyprus after the call of Erdogan to investigate Russian investment opportunities.

 

Turkey and Russia agreed on UN should be the address for solution of Cyprus issue. Previously Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus president Tassos Papadopulos said that “We do not want a solution within UN framework, we want a solution based on EU acquirement. However, both Russian and Turkey agree on that initiatives to solve Cyprus issue should be started by UN without any interfere of EU”. Solutions that are in EU framework will exclude Russia. For this reason Russia tries to show that it is still the actor in international arena by using its permanent membership status in Security Council.

 

PM Erdogan made a statement regarding this issue and said that “We want a solution in UN framework not of EU. Russia also has no conditions on Cyprus issue. We already declared our sensibilities.”

 

 

It is important to know whether Russia’s Cyprus policy has changed or not. Russia is a trustful supporter of Security Council and any change of its policy may lead critical results. If Russia and France lift their secret veto that surrounds TRNC as embargos, direct flight round could start and some countries may recognize TRNC like OIC did. The most important thing is that if the council determines in favor of TRNC, international repression might increase to force Greek side for solution. Thus Greek’s policy to lock to October 3 will become invalid.

 

Russian president Putin’s approaches to Cyprus issue are either ‘neutral’or ‘in favor of Turk’ and, for the first time his statements to lift up isolation on TRNC are crucial developments. It can be claimed that for the first time Russian becomes fair in its 31 years Cyprus policy. Moscow’s emphasis on unfair isolation is an important development. These approaches mean that Russia would behave more balanced regarding Cyprus issue. Other thing is that there is no development that Russia may support Turkey’s thesis. When all developments are followed information based on original sources, it can be seen that Russia’s declaration on Cyprus issue is optimistic. There is no main change in Russian’s main politics.

 

The year of 2005 is an important turning point regarding solution for Cyprus issue. In this period Russia’s positive support to this issue may be an important support for solution. However; it should not be exaggerated and it should not be perceived as this support would completely be in favor of Ankara. Moreover, Russia has already declared that solution should be in UN Security Council framework but it was vetoed because of technical problems. These problems mean for Russia is that sides should not be under pressure before referendum and Moscow’s view regarding this issue was not asked.

 

Russia’s statement about no fundamental change in Cyprus policy is also mentioned by Russian diplomats. Nonetheless, the veto decision on April 24 and PM Erdogan’s statement on Moscow’s “turn” in Cyprus policy made some Russian diplomats evaluate as “Under the circumstance of not recording the dramatic changes, Russia would act according to its known thesis but in the framework of realities of EU”.

 

A Russian diplomatic source said that Russia did not change its approach to Cyprus issue as a response to Turkish media. “Moscow supports of regeneration of Turkish Cypriot’s economy but is should be done according to Security Council decisions and without violating Cyprus republic” is said concerning news on Turkey PM Erdogan’s demand from Putin for lifting up the isolation on Turkish Cypriots.

 

Russia declared that it would not veto Annan plan anymore and it might be counted as a success. This is a controversial issue whether it responds to the demands of Ankara or not. The possibility of re-implementation of plan is seen limited. It is clear that any initiative without Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus President Tassos Papadopulos may not become successful. Therefore, UN General Secretary Kofi Annan realize that an initiative that cannot reach its aim may damage reputation of both his name and also UN and his any attempt to a new correction on same plan will be seen as a weak possibility.

 

 

Russia thinks that Annan report that is published in May will no more on agenda. However Russia thinks that a new situation emerges in referendum despite on all done things. In this new situation, the sides saying “yes” are Turkish; the sides saying “no” are Greek for resolution of the island. For this reason economic and trade embargos that are applied on Turks should be lifted up as a part of solution.

-          In principle, Russia recognizes Greek side as a state namely “Cyprus Republic”. For this reason by now it has not recognized TRNC as a state and not communicated with the authorities directly.

-          After April 24 2004, between 14-16 Junes, Russian Foreign Affair Minister Sergey Lavrov came to Istanbul for OIC 31^ST term Foreign Affair Ministers meeting and met with TRNC PM Mehmet Ali Talat and Foreign Affair Minister Serdar Denktas. This is the first upper level meeting.

-          In 3^rd International World Mayor Conference in Moscow, Lefkosa Turkish mayor Kutlay Erkin was invited by Moscow mayor Yuri Luskov. This is another crucial sign of Russia’s convergence to Turkish Cypriot society. (60) Lefkosa mayor met with Russian Federation Foreign Affair Minister Assistant Yuri Fedetov at the meeting in Moscow.

-          Russia positively agreed to meet at the lower level without recognition of Cyprus.

-          TRNC Industry and Trade Chamber President Salih Tunar’s speech as a representative of TRNC in Moscow is meaningful by taking place in Erdogan’s delegations. Definitely, it does not mean it is a legal recognition but Moscow’s permission to Tunar’s speech is an important development.

-          Lastly, President Putin called Annan as he promised in Ankara and said him they will support attempts for solution.

 

Russia has began to take role actively in Cyprus issue with Russia’s veto of resolution 2004 that is prepared before referendum on 24 April in UN Security Council in April 21. Although Russia vetoed this resolution in UN, after Greek side says “no” and Turkish side says “yes” Moscow has made changes in its Cyprus politics. These changes’ first signals began to emerge in 31^st Period Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting in Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC) when Russian Foreign Affairs Minister Sergey Lavrov met with TRNC Prime Minister Mehment Ali Talat and Foreing Affairs Ministry Serdar Denktas.

 

 

 

 

 

[1] Kıbrıs'ta 24 Nisan 2004 tarihinde taraflara sunulan Annan Planı yaklaşık 30 yıldır Adada çözüm sağlamak amacıyla sürdürülen toplumlararası görüşmelerin geldiği en son noktayı simgelemektedir. İki toplum arasındaki görüşmeler 1974'te BM Güvenlik Konseyi'nin aldığı bir karar doğrultusunda Genel Sekreter'in misyonu adı altında yürütülmektedir. Annan Planı ilk olarak 11 Kasım 2002 tarihinde sunulmuştur. Daha sonra, 10 Aralık 2002, 26 Şubat 2003 ve 29 Mart 2004’de revize edilmiş versiyonları sunulmuştur. Planın en son şekli ise taraflara BM Genel Sekreteri tarafından Bürgenstock/İsviçre'de 31 Mart 2004 tarihinde sunulmuştur. Söz konusu planın bir parçası olan metinde yapılan açıklayıcı düzeltmeler ise 18 Nisan’da duyurulmuştur. Açıklayıcı düzenlemeleri ve diğer teknik değişiklikleri de içeren 31 Mart belgesinin geçerli versiyonu Genel Sekreter’in Özel Temsilcisi Alvaro de Soto tarafından belgelenip 23 Nisan 2004 tarihinde taraflara sunulmuştur.

2 Sinan OGAN, “Gelişen Türk Rus İlişkilerinde Algılama Sorunu ve Rusya’da Hükümet Krizi”, ASAM Günlük Küresel Değerlendirme Bülteni, 26 Şubat 2004.

3 “Pozitsii Rossii v Uregulirovanii Mejdunarodnıh i Regionalnıh Konfliktov: Kipirskoe Uregylirovanie-Ctenogramma Vıstupleniya i Otvetov na Vaprosı CMİ Ministra İnostrannıh Del Rossii S.V.Lavrov po İtogom Peregavorov s Ministrom İnostrannıh Del Kipra G. Yakovu”, Rusya Federasyonu Dışişleri Bakanlığı Resmi Web Sayfası, www.mid.ru, 20 Nisan 2004.

4 Gözde Kılıç Yaşın, “Rusya’nın Kıbrıs’a Bakışı”, http://www.turksam.org/tr/yazilar.asp?kat=26&yazi=49