The parliament approved proposals to limit the benefits enjoyed by former Presidents of the Republic and the House. Benefits will now be provided for five years for official vehicles and for life for secretarial services, under specific conditions. These changes will apply only to individuals elected to these positions after the law comes into force. The amendments proposed call for the new regulations to include current officeholders as well. Transparency in the decision-making process was an important aspect.
Renowned Cypriot painter and author Andreas Karagyan has passed away at the age of 83. Born in Nicosia, he initially studied Medicine but later pursued a career in painting. He showcased his work in numerous exhibitions in Cyprus and abroad, with notable themes including the male nude. The artist added a new dimension to Cypriot art, blending sensuality with social commentary. His loss leaves a gap in contemporary Cypriot art.
Tensions in the Middle East are rising due to an unprecedented concentration of American troops in the area. More than 1,000 soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division are preparing to be deployed soon. The total number of American troops in the Middle East is around 50,000. Simultaneously, Iran has prepared over 1 million fighters in the region. President Trump referred to ten Iranian tankers as a 'gift' from Tehran.
The Supreme Court has decided to reopen a traffic accident case that occurred 31 years ago, leading to a significant legal reversal. Herodotos Konstantinou was severely injured in 1995 and became quadriplegic. The initial lawsuit against the driver was dismissed, but now the responsibilities of the state and local authorities are being examined. The plaintiffs claim that the lack of adequate lighting and pedestrian crossings contributed to the accident. The Supreme Court clarified that the new lawsuit is legally valid and appropriate.
The rainfall for March is approaching nearly double the normal amount, reaching 176% of the average from the beginning of the month until March 26. Areas with the highest rainfall include Stauros Psokas, Pano Panagia, and Platania. The average rainfall for this period is 108.8 mm, compared to the normal for the entire month which is 61.9 mm. Specifically, Stauros Psokas received 236 mm, corresponding to 202% of the normal rainfall. The last 24 hours also recorded significant rainfall in several areas.
Russia is reportedly making at least $760 million a day due to increased demand for Russian oil caused by the war in Iran. Kremlin revenues from oil and gas are expected to double in March, reaching nearly $24 billion. Even if the war ends soon, Russia's oil and gas revenues could reach $218.5 billion by 2026. The U.S. government has given the green light for the sale of Russian oil before a certain date. Oil prices have surged due to the war's impacts.
A woman, referred to as Niki, claims she was drugged and raped by Jeffrey Epstein at the age of 19. She gave him a massage and drank water from him, after which she remembers nothing for hours. Niki decided to speak out publicly about her experience after hearing from other survivors with similar stories. She has requested the U.S. Department of Justice to release remaining files concerning Epstein. Her experience is filled with anguish and memories associated with the abuse she suffered.
Donald Trump discussed the recent developments in the Middle East and the possibility of negotiations with Iran. He stated that the United States is destroying Iranian military facilities and that negotiations are an option but come with conditions. Trump expressed that Iran is asking for a deal due to their difficult situation. He highlighted NATO's challenges and the rise in oil prices, noting that the situation is not as serious as he expected. Ultimately, he emphasized that the U.S. will not re-enter negotiations with countries that seek nuclear weapons.
Tehran has officially responded to the US regarding the proposed 15-point plan. The response emphasizes the need to end hostilities and restore peace in the region. Iran asserts its rights in the Strait of Hormuz as just and legal. At the same time, it expresses skepticism about the genuine intentions of the US to negotiate. Tehran is now awaiting Washington's reply.
Two suspects, aged 19 and 21, were arrested for an explosion at a fast-food restaurant in Limassol owned by a Russian businessman. Authorities tracked them down using surveillance footage and witness testimonies who saw them leaving the scene. The court decided to hold them in custody for 6 days. The suspects reportedly wore dark clothing and hoods during the attack. Further evidence has emerged from testimonies and surveillance material.
The government announces a reduction in the special consumption tax on fuel by 8.33 cents per liter, effective from April 1 until June 2026. This reduction applies to gasoline and diesel, aimed at alleviating costs for consumers. The average price of gasoline is expected to stabilize at €1.43 per liter and diesel at €1.67. This intervention was deemed necessary due to significant recent price increases. While international prices remain high, the government's action provides some relief to citizens.
Donald Trump accuses NATO allies of failing to assist the US in the war against Iran. In his posts on Truth Social, he urges Iranian negotiators to take matters seriously before it's too late. He asserts that the US doesn’t need NATO's assistance but shows disappointment in their lack of support. He claims Iranian negotiators should be more decisive rather than just considering proposals. He warns that if they don't act seriously soon, it will be too late.
A 36-year-old Romanian man is being held for five days in connection with the theft of busts from the Heroes' Monument in Germasogeia. After a report was made, police arrested him while he was attempting to sell one of the stolen busts. The suspect claimed he found the bust in an underground passage and was unaware it was stolen. The police are still searching for three more busts and plan to take additional testimonies and conduct further investigations. The case is ongoing, and authorities remain vigilant.
The police arrested six foreigners from Bangladesh near military facilities in Avgorou. The incident occurred on March 22, and it was found that two of them were illegal immigrants. All of the arrested individuals are expected to be deported. A police spokesperson stated that there appears to be no malicious intent. The case does not relate to espionage.
The Permanent Criminal Court of Limassol has decided to keep the fifth defendant in custody for the murder of Stavros Dimosthenous until the trial set for April 29. The decision was based on earlier proceedings, and no new evidence was presented. The defendant's lawyer requested his release, which was denied due to the likelihood of conviction. The accused face serious charges, including murder, conspiracy, and illegal possession of weapons. The witness list includes over 125 individuals.
The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, announced a package of support measures for households and businesses in response to the crisis in the Middle East. This includes a reduction of VAT on electricity and a zero VAT rate on meat, poultry, and fish. Additionally, the special consumption tax on fuels will be reduced, and workers in the hospitality sector will receive subsidies. Farmers will be subsidized for purchasing fertilizers and agricultural supplies. The total cost of these measures exceeds 200 million euros.
Changes will take effect from midnight in the General Health System, impacting all beneficiaries. The validity of referrals for laboratory tests will be extended from 6 to 12 months. A linear code will be implemented for prescription processing at pharmacies. Cancer patients will be allowed to prescribe tests with an existing referral. Additionally, a registry for patients with multiple sclerosis will be created, facilitating access to neurologists.
The price of a 10 kg gas cylinder has risen to €25, marking a 33% increase in just one month. This increase is driven by geopolitical tensions and the new prices of gas components. Prices for butane and propane have surged, with increases of 77% and 47% respectively. Despite international pressures, Cyprus has a modern gas management infrastructure. However, the high cost of raw material imports is impacting final consumer prices.
The building on Spyros Kyprianou Avenue has been incomplete since 2010, raising safety and public health concerns. The Auditor General pointed out the lack of oversight in construction projects. The building's frame, initially approved to be made of reinforced concrete, was instead constructed of metal without proper authorization. Additionally, severe issues like rust and even the discovery of a human corpse at the site have been reported. This situation could have serious implications for the city's image and citizens' safety.
A low pressure system is affecting the area, with rain and thunderstorms expected over the weekend. Today, the weather will be partly cloudy, with isolated rain mainly in the northern and mountainous regions. On Saturday, rain will become more frequent, and on Sunday, thunderstorms and hail are possible. Snow or sleet may fall on the highest peaks of Troodos. Temperatures will range around 18 degrees inland and 20 degrees along the coast.
Two men, aged 19 and 21, were arrested in Limassol in relation to the explosion at a fast food restaurant owned by a Russian businessman. The explosion occurred on Tuesday morning and caused damage to the premises. The police believe that the perpetrators aim to exert pressure on the businessman regarding issues related to 'protection'. The suspects are expected to be brought to court for detention. This marks the third attack against this businessman within a few months.
Iran warned that it may open a new front in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait if there is a ground invasion by the US. Tehran believes it has the capability to seriously threaten this vital maritime route. Additionally, the Iranian parliamentary president stated that the enemies of Iran are preparing an operation to seize one of its islands. The situation is tense, with Iran asserting its willingness and ability to resist. The US strategy appears to focus on the island of Kharg, which is crucial for the country's oil exports.
In the early morning, an explosive attack occurred at a flower shop in Limassol, causing unrest among local residents. The explosion happened around 1:30 a.m. and resulted in significant damage to the shop’s facade and parked vehicles nearby. Preliminary investigations suggest that the blast was caused by a low-power homemade explosive device placed at the entrance of the shop. The police have cordoned off the area and are investigating the incident, looking for evidence from surveillance cameras. The situation is under control, and authorities are working to identify those responsible.
The conflict in the Middle East involving Iran, the USA, and Israel is evolving into a war of attrition with no clear outcome. Despite significant strikes against Iran's military infrastructure, the regime demonstrates resilience. The rising political and economic costs for all parties could lead to a possible diplomatic resolution to the crisis. The US government is struggling to convince public opinion of the necessity of military action. Recent talks among the involved parties indicate potential developments toward diplomacy.
The Supreme Constitutional Court confirmed that a Ukrainian woman's marriage to a Greek Cypriot was fictitious, rejecting her appeal. The investigation revealed a lack of cohabitation and contradictions in their statements. The woman had married to secure residency in Cyprus. The ruling stated that the found evidence was sufficient to substantiate this assessment. The Court emphasized the absence of shared family life between the couple.
This year, the number of fatalities from road accidents has reached 11, primarily due to speeding and mobile phone usage while driving. Motorcyclists remain the most vulnerable road users, with three of the deaths involving riders. Additionally, four pedestrians lost their lives, indicating their continued vulnerability to accidents. The Traffic Police have intensified campaigns for prevention and awareness regarding road safety, but the victim numbers remain concerning. The use of mobile phones while driving has emerged as a significant cause of accidents.
The number of large families in Cyprus has significantly decreased, with only 6.5% receiving child benefits. From 2012 to 2024, families receiving financial assistance dropped by 65%. Births of Cypriot citizens have reached historic lows. A group of large families has appealed to the President of the Republic for support. Political choices seem to have contributed to this situation.