Cyprus says Turkey’s Varosha move ‘illegal’, violates UN resolutions

Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades slammed a move by Turkey and Turkish Cypriots to partially reopen a beach resort abandoned by Greek Cypriots fleeing war in 1974.

“The decision by Turkey and the occupation regime to extend part of the fenced in city for use … is an illegal and clear violation of international law and UN Security Council resolutions,” Anastasiades said in a written statement.

Turkish Cypriot authorities on Wednesday opened up part of Varosha, marking the first time in decades that the area, a designated military zone, was accessed by members of the public.