Türkiye and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) solemnly commemorated on Sunday the 62nd anniversary of the “Bloody Christmas” massacres, a series of attacks in 1963 that targeted Turkish Cypriots. The Turkish Foreign Ministry and Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz issued statements honoring those killed and reaffirming the enduring bond between Ankara and the TRNC.
Official Statements Condemn the Attacks
In a statement, the Turkish Foreign Ministry declared, “We commemorate with mercy all our Turkish Cypriot brothers and sisters who lost their lives in the barbaric attacks by Greek Cypriots.” The ministry emphasized that the “heinous objectives” of the EOKA terrorist organization were ultimately thwarted by the “unwavering support of Motherland and Guarantor Türkiye” and the resistance of Turkish Cypriots. Vice President Yılmaz described the events as “an indelible black stain in history,” praising the determined struggle that prevented the elimination of the Turkish Cypriot community.
Historical Context of the Violence
The commemoration marks the coordinated attacks launched by Greek Cypriot armed groups beginning on December 21, 1963. This violence, orchestrated by elements linked to the EOKA organization, sought to implement the Akritas Plan, which aimed to dismantle the bicommunal partnership republic and forcibly alter the demographic structure of Cyprus. The initial attacks in Lefkoşa (Nicosia) resulted in numerous deaths and triggered widespread conflict, effectively ending the power-sharing government.
The Enduring Legacy and Solidarity
The statements from Ankara framed the anniversary as a foundational moment reinforcing national solidarity. Officials honored not only the victims but also late Turkish Cypriot leaders like Fazıl Küçük and Rauf Raif Denktaş. Vice President Yılmaz asserted, “Türkiye and the TRNC will stand shoulder to shoulder forever,” underscoring Türkiye’s ongoing role as the guarantor of Turkish Cypriot security and its commitment to the TRNC’s cause on the international stage.