Farmers in the free areas of Cyprus have killed thousands of animals while implementing EU guidelines and protocols due to foot-and-mouth disease.
92% confidence
AgricultureCyprus
Omissions
The claim does not specify the actual scale of culling, which was over 27,000 animals according to reports. The outbreak began on 20 February 2026 and affected 46+ farms. The EU Commission officially responded with Implementing Decision (EU) 2026/484 on 25 February 2026. This is a very recent event at the time of the speech (April 2026).
Sources
PrimaryEUR-Lex - Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2026/484Official EU decision of 25 February 2026 responding to Cyprus foot-and-mouth disease outbreak notified on 21 February 2026, establishing protective measures including culling protocols
SecondaryBeaconBIO ReportFoot and mouth disease outbreak spread to 46 farms, with over 27,000 animals culled in Larnaca and Nicosia districts, Republic of Cyprus
SecondaryCyprus Mail - EU outlines culling policyEuropean Commission reiterated that culling remains the primary response to outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease