A tree planting ceremony planned for November 23, 2025 by the Jewish community of Cyprus in honor of US President Donald Trump caused a wave of discontent among the residents of Larnaca and the parents of students at a nearby school.
The event, which is to take place on Ioanni Kakridi Street, near the Vergina Lyceum, involves the planting of 48 trees, described by the organizers as “symbols of life and hope.” In a statement, the Jewish community said the ceremony honors "US President Donald Trump for facilitating the release of Israeli hostages and the signing of a peace agreement" and is billed as "an act of gratitude, unity and peace."
However, Larnaca municipality said it was not informed of the political purpose of the event. According to municipal sources, organizers approached city officials on October 17, indicating that they planned to plant 50 trees as part of a “social contribution” to the improvement of the city. The permit was issued solely under this wording.
After it became known that the event would be dedicated to Donald Trump, parents of students at a nearby school contacted the Parents Association, demanding clarification and checking who exactly authorized the ceremony.
The municipality emphasizes that the tree planting will take place on the traffic island opposite the school, and not on the territory of the Vergina Lyceum, as the organizers claimed.
Additionally, the municipality reportedly will not approve the installation of any memorial signs or plaques related to the event.
Source: in-cyprus.philenews.com
