That’s OK.
If there were two historic empires I could’ve visited, it would’ve been the Russian Empire and the Ottoman Empire. With the Russians, during the reign of Peter the Great, and with the Ottomans, Suleiman the Magnificent. The zenith of both empires, and I have no doubt it would’ve been fascinating.
In regards to Cyprus, I think they’re gambling that Russia will offer them a better deal but as with any deal, the devil’s in the details. I’d be wary of making a deal with the Russians - or the Turks for that matter - as any deal you strike with both of them would benefit them enormously, and you......not so much.
Most likely, the Cypriots will be back in front of the EU in a week, begging bowl in hand, especially once Bank of Cyprus and Laika Bank are declared insolvent.
That should happen about 20 minutes after they open.
It will be interesting to see what Russia offers, especially once they think Assad is toast, and their base at Tartus, is in jeopardy.