Washington has thrown its weight behind a €1.9 billion undersea power cable project that will connect the European mainland to Cyprus and, later, Israel. In an interview with the Greek daily Kathimerini, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the United States is “very committed” to the scheme because it diversifies energy supplies – a priority given Russia’s war in Ukraine and the ongoing instability in the Strait of Hormuz.
Project overview and regional challenges
The cable is being developed by Greece’s power‑grid operator IPTO. It will run across the eastern Mediterranean, linking the continent’s existing grid to the island nation of Cyprus, which currently lacks a direct electricity connection to other EU members. The long‑term plan includes extending the line to Israel, further integrating the region’s energy markets.
Progress has been slow, however, due to a maritime dispute between Greece and Turkey. Turkey argues that the seabed segment where the cable will be laid falls under a 2019 maritime agreement with Libya, a claim Athens rejects. Greece wants to resume seabed surveying soon, but Turkey says any work must be coordinated with Ankara first.Rubio acknowledged these “potential impediments” and said the United States will use diplomatic channels to remind all parties why the project matters. “We intend to use our diplomatic efforts to remind all parties how important this is to us and why this matters,” he said, adding that Washington hopes to find resolutions quickly.
Strategic importance for the United States and Europe
The cable aligns with broader U.S. goals of reducing Europe’s reliance on Russian energy. By creating a new conduit for electricity from the Mediterranean, the project helps diversify supply routes and strengthens the resilience of the European grid. It also supports the energy‑security needs of Cyprus, the only EU member without a direct electricity link to the rest of the bloc.
French investment firm Meridiam signed an agreement in August to become the majority shareholder in the venture, underscoring private‑sector confidence in the project’s viability.
What this means for local communities
For residents of Cyprus, Greece and Israel, the cable promises more stable electricity prices and a reduced risk of blackouts. It also opens the door for future renewable‑energy projects, as excess solar and wind power can be transmitted across borders more efficiently.
American businesses operating in the region stand to benefit from a more predictable energy market, and the United States gains a strategic foothold in a geopolitically sensitive area.
Next steps
Greek authorities are expected to move forward with seabed surveys once diplomatic channels clear the remaining hurdles. The U.S. State Department will continue to engage with Athens, Ankara and other regional stakeholders to keep the project on track.
Rubio’s remarks signal that the administration views energy diversification as a core component of its foreign‑policy agenda, reinforcing America’s commitment to allies and to the stability of global energy markets.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
