Donald Trump appears to be backing JD Vance as his successor for the 2028 presidential election. In a private meeting with donors, Trump expressed his desire to see Vance win. However, it remains unclear whether he has officially endorsed Vance, as his advisors are cautious. The situation is fluid, with Trump also considering other candidates like Rubio. Trump typically keeps his support under wraps until he is certain.
Dimitra Eleftheriou has been appointed as the President of the 'Voice' Council for the implementation of the national strategy against child abuse. She has over twenty years of experience in strategic communication and public relations. She is actively involved in social contribution, focusing on child welfare and health. She is a board member of the 'Miracle Babies' Association, supporting premature newborns and their families. Her appointment is expected to positively impact the fight against child abuse.
President Nikos Christodoulides announced the new members of the Boards of Directors of the semi-governmental organizations. Key individuals from various fields, such as journalism and political science, have been appointed to leadership positions. Among them are new presidents and vice-presidents with experience and qualifications in their respective areas. The appointments aim to improve the management and operation of these organizations. The composition of the new Boards reflects a diverse approach towards renewal and specialization.
Police arrested a 16-year-old for arson related to the historic Corner Pub building in Nicosia. The fire broke out in an abandoned building on August 5, 2026, and was confirmed to be set maliciously. Authorities conducted investigations following the extinguishing of the fire. The teenager was arrested under a court warrant and is currently in custody. The investigation into the case is ongoing.
An 18-year-old was found in critical condition in Limassol following a traffic incident. He was discovered next to his electric bicycle, suffering from a serious head injury. Initially taken to Limassol General Hospital, he was later transferred to Nicosia General Hospital due to the severity of his condition. He is currently on life support in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding his injury.
The Cypriot government expressed satisfaction with the entry of the French company Meridiam as the majority shareholder in the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI). The Minister of Energy stated that Meridiam's participation brings new dynamics to the project's realization. The decision regarding the participation of the Cypriot Republic will be made after the completion of the European Investment Bank's due diligence study. Meridiam will hold 66% of the project's company, and other investors may also be attracted. The project is significant for the energy connection between Greece and Cyprus.
Iran and Oman appear to have reached an agreement for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for 60 days. The announcement is expected soon and depends on the approval of Iran's Supreme National Security Council. Ships will follow a designated shipping route while passing through the strait. The agreement stipulates that no transit fees will be imposed. Additionally, discussions between the US and Iran are anticipated for safe navigation in the Persian Gulf.
Defense Minister Vasilis Palmas has received the report of the disciplinary investigation into the fire at the Kalo Chorio firing range. The report, delivered by the Chief of the National Guard, investigates the circumstances and causes of the fire that occurred on July 27, 2026. Palmas stated he will analyze the report and will refrain from further comments until the criminal investigation by the Police is completed. He assured that any responsibilities arising will be assigned in accordance with the law. The police investigation report is expected to be submitted to the Legal Service soon.
The road access to the arrivals area at Larnaca Airport is reopening as restrictions imposed during the Gaza conflict are lifted. This decision addresses the congestion that has been experienced at the airport. Minister of Justice and Public Order, Costas Fytiris, convened a meeting to resolve the issue. Necessary actions were taken by Hermes Airports in collaboration with the authorities. This development is expected to significantly improve the service for passengers and drivers.
Five Palestinians have been referred for direct trial in Cyprus on terrorism charges, as they are alleged to have planned attacks on Israeli targets. The charges include conspiracy to murder and involvement in a terrorist organization, with potential sentences of up to life imprisonment. The trial is set to begin on October 14. One of the accused is claimed to have traveled to Cyprus with the intent of carrying out terrorist activities. The case also involves Cypriot nationals linked to the terrorism charges.
Electric aircraft could start operating commercial flights in Europe by 2030, primarily on short routes. Their successful market entry depends on technological advancements and regulatory frameworks. There are already plans for developing electric and hybrid aircraft. However, regulatory and economic challenges remain, including airport charges. The complexity of funding also necessitates strategies for support.
A 37-year-old Greek Cypriot has been arrested for fraud related to vehicle imports. The suspect has a prior criminal history involving drugs and had previously cooperated with authorities as a witness. He is now charged with theft, fraud, and money laundering, amounting to approximately €827,400. He appeared in court without a lawyer and was ordered to be held for 8 days. Police are investigating additional cases against him.
The Holy Synod is faced with a dilemma regarding the reinstatement of two clergymen who were defrocked due to allegations of moral misconduct. The Appeals Court has yet to review the appeal of Barnabas and Raphael, who will argue that the charges are unproven. The two clerics believe that the accusations stemmed from revenge by monks from the monastery. If there is a possibility of their reinstatement, it will be due to their role in exposing scandals. Their conviction does not involve serious offenses but rather regular misdemeanors.
The Bank of Cyprus warns citizens about phone scams. It states that no legitimate organization, such as PayPal, will ever ask for sensitive information over the phone. Citizens are advised to be cautious if they receive calls requesting passwords or card information. It is important to hang up on suspicious calls immediately and never share personal details. For any uncertainties, they should contact the bank directly.
The Permanent Criminal Court of Larnaca has rejected for the third time the request of a 44-year-old businessman accused of fraud and witness tampering. The businessman, along with three others, is alleged to have solicited large sums of money from a 77-year-old. Their trial is set to begin in September, and they face multiple charges, including participation in a criminal organization. The 44-year-old also has charges related to other criminal activities. The other defendants have been released under certain conditions.
Tina Pavlou, the new Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, spoke about her relationship with Annita Dimitriou after the swearing-in ceremony. She emphasized that Annita has historically supported her and expressed her appreciation. Pavlou mentioned that there had been communication between them, though it may not have been as much as Dimitriou wanted. She chose not to comment further on recent public statements. Pavlou confirmed her respect and appreciation for the President of DISY.
A 37-year-old man was arrested at Larnaca airport, facing 20 fraud-related charges. He allegedly posed as a car importer and deceived citizens out of a total of €827,400. The frauds occurred in Limassol and Nicosia during 2022 and 2023. He was previously detained in Great Britain under a European arrest warrant. He is expected to appear before the Limassol District Court today.
The Employees' Council of the union ISOTITA raises serious concerns about conditions in the Central Prisons, highlighting issues of violence, drug trafficking, and understaffing. They report frequent inmate altercations and incidents of rape. The union demands improved working conditions and safety for both inmates and staff. Additionally, they mention attempts at silencing and ongoing disciplinary processes. They conclude with a call for a state that effectively manages its prisons.
Today, the swearing-in ceremony of the new members of the Government takes place at the Presidential Palace. Following this, there will be handover ceremonies for various Ministries. President Christodoulides has made changes to the Government's composition with new appointments. New ministers include Evanthe Tsolaki and Christos Senekis. The Council of Ministers will convene later today with its new composition.
A dog is wandering dangerously on the Kokkinotrimithia-Nicosia highway. The police are trying to confine it for the safety of drivers. Drivers are warned to be cautious and to drive at low speeds. The situation requires attention to avoid accidents. Authorities continue their efforts to ensure safety in the area.
The Minister of Justice has sent a list of doctors who frequently grant sick leave to prison guards. The aim is to address the issue of unjustified absences among prison staff. The Auditor General's report highlights irregularities in the granting of these leaves by doctors. Authorities will investigate the matter for potential criminal liabilities and reopen discussions for legal regulation. Protecting the rights of chronic patients will remain a priority.
Sir Demis Hassabis has been appointed as the new President and Scientific Head of Google’s Artificial Intelligence division. His promotion reflects Google's expectations for innovation in this field. Hassabis, a Nobel Prize winner, is expected to lead revolutionary research in AI. His personal wealth is significant, estimated between $500 million and $3 billion. Born in London, his promotion is seen as a practical recognition of his capabilities.
Marilena Raouna, the former Deputy Minister for European Affairs, proposes the establishment of a strong political coordination mechanism for EU matters in her letter to President Christodoulides. She warns that without this, the legacy of the Cypriot Presidency may be lost. Raouna emphasizes the importance of Cyprus's participation in EU decision-making processes and how European issues affect internal governance and citizens' lives. She also points out that the experience from the previous Presidency in 2012 showed that the lack of a coordination mechanism led to losses. Finally, the letter highlights the need for preparation and effective coordination in European affairs.
This year's July was the eighth warmest July since 1968, with the highest temperature reaching 43.2 degrees Celsius. Heat warnings were issued on 11 out of 31 days of the month. Despite these warnings, residents considered July to be relatively mild, though there were several days of intense heat. The highest temperatures were recorded in Athalassa, while those in downtown Nicosia seemed higher than in other areas. The lowest extreme temperature was measured at 27.6 degrees Celsius in Paphos.
The communities around the Kaloychori Shooting Range are demanding its closure as it poses serious problems, especially after a recent fire. They met with state representatives and requested a political decision to gradually relocate the shooting range. Community leaders emphasize that the safety of residents is their top priority. They are also planning peaceful protests if no action is taken towards the closure. The area is seeking clear timelines and suggestions for the safe relocation of the shooting range.
Four candidates have announced their candidacy for the presidency of EDEK, including Sofia Christodoulou Makri and Kyriakos Mavronikolas. Makri faces questions regarding her eligibility but argues she has been a member since 2017. Mavronikolas stated his candidacy, emphasizing the need to lead the party in a better direction. The elections are set for September 5. Support for Makri comes from a group advocating for the party's reorganization.
In recent years, there have been fatalities from traffic accidents involving electric scooters, with two deaths reported this year. The Police suggest that scooters should use sidewalks and have specific signage. There are concerns about user safety and the lack of regulation by authorities. Although changes in scooter usage have been voted, the relevant ministerial decree has not been issued yet. The new regulations include mandatory identification of scooters and the lifting of the driving license requirements for younger riders.
The cabinet reshuffle of President Christodoulides involved several changes in the initial plan. Neofytos Charalambidis remained at the Ministry of Health, while other ministers were reassigned to different ministries. The process was delayed due to reactions from organized health sector groups concerning the proposed changes. President Christodoulides aimed to maintain political balances and attract votes from the right wing. Further statements from the President are expected during the swearing-in ceremony of the new ministers.
The majority shares of the Great Sea Interconnector have been transferred to the French company Meridiam following an agreement with ADMIE. The Cypriot government lacked sufficient information and is expected to discuss this development. The issuance of navtex by the Greek government is critical for the surveys required for the electrical interconnection. There is uncertainty regarding the importance of the technical-economic study from EIB for the project. This development surprised many, except for the President of the Republic.