Cyprus has announced drilling operations in the Mediterranean Sea

Drilling operations in natural gas fields in the Mediterranean Sea have been announced by the Republic of Cyprus, Greek TV channel Skai reports on November 23.

Energy giants ExxonMobile from the United States and Total from France will operate in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the Republic of Cyprus.

Cyprus issued a navigation announcement NAVTEX announcing test drilling in section 10 of its EEZ. ExxonMobil and Qatar Petroleum will operate there until January 22, Skai reports. This area is home to the Glafkos field, where natural gas reserves, according to US research in 2019, range from 5 to 8 trillion cubic meters. foot. (about 200 billion cubic meters).

In addition, in the new year, Total will begin work on the Calypso field, located in area 6. France will use a FREMM-class multipurpose frigate to guard the drilling rig.

As noted by the TV channel, Turkey said that in response to the drilling, its response will follow, in connection with which it is expected that tensions in the region will rise in January.

Skai emphasizes that the Greek Armed Forces are practicing situations related to the seizure of drilling vessels and the protection of production platforms in their exercises. Similar situations are considered in the international exercises "Medusa" with the participation of Cyprus, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates.