The US naval ship USS Arleigh Burke docked in Limassol on Thursday as the United States prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of its Declaration of Independence on July 4. The ship, a guided-missile destroyer, has been deployed in the Eastern Mediterranean since April, protecting US and Cypriot security.

The US embassy in Cyprus expressed gratitude for Cyprus's hospitality and partnership during this milestone year. The destroyer, based out of Naval Station Rota in Spain, has made several visits to Limassol recently, including stops in May 2023 and January 2024.

The port arrival follows celebrations hosted by the embassy on June 23, attended by President Nikos Christodoulides, commemorating 250 years of American independence. The 63rd Army Band also held a concert in Larnaca the following day, part of ongoing events honoring the occasion.