On December 16th, Mehmet Ali Talat, leader of a pro-settlement opposition party, called for early elections and the resignation of Mr Denktash.

ECONOMIST: Island of troubles | The

This could cost the president of Turkish northern Cyprus, Mehmet Ali Talat, his job: he faces an election next year, and hardline opponents are circling.

ECONOMIST: Charlemagne

On the Turkish Cypriot side, Mehmet Ali Talat also says he is committed to a deal, and his time may be running out: his nationalist opponents thumped his party in legislative elections recently, and Mr Talat could be turfed out of office next year.

ECONOMIST: European politics