5 Minute News

last year

The election of Donald Trump appears to be affecting support for Ukraine, as his advisor stated that the new administration will focus on a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Josep Borrell, the EU representative, assured Ukraine of the European Union's ongoing support. Russia has occupied Crimea since 2014, and the situation remains tense. It is unclear how the Trump administration will approach this issue.

Iran warns about the danger of the war spreading from Gaza and Lebanon to other parts of the world. The Iranian Foreign Minister emphasized that the repercussions of the conflict will not be limited to the Middle East. Recent developments, including Israeli airstrikes on Iranian sites, have raised concerns about possible retaliation. Iran is urging restraint amid a series of warnings regarding the situation.

Stefanos Kasselakis announced the creation of a new movement for democracy and progress aimed at free citizens. He emphasized that the name of the movement will be decided by its supporters. He has left SYRIZA and invites citizens to a celebration of democracy. This day is described as joyful.

The President of DISY, Annita Demetriou, announced the establishment of a Council to monitor government activities and propose policies for the common good. This initiative is part of the restructuring of the Party and aims to collaborate with MPs and Policy Production Groups. The Political Bureau meeting focused on current issues, emphasizing the Cyprus problem. The Council consists of experienced professionals with expertise in various fields.

Civil Defense offers protection measures in light of strong storms expected. They recommend preparing living or working spaces to minimize flood risks. Important advice includes removing valuable items, clearing blocked drains, and using sandbags for protection. During flooding, it is advised to limit movements and seek higher ground for safety.

A man in Larnaca was injured after falling from a building onto a garage roof. The Fire Service conducted a rescue using special equipment. The injured person was taken to a safe location and received First Aid from the Ambulance Service. He was then transported to the Larnaca hospital.

Callie Rogers won £1.8 million as a teenager but now lives on just €14,500 a year. She spent much of her winnings on homes, clothes, and gifts for friends, and developed a strong cocaine addiction. Now 37, she leads a simpler life and recently welcomed her fifth child. Her experience serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of managing sudden wealth.

Odysseas Michailidis, former Auditor General, claims that President Christodoulides views him as persona non grata and did nothing to prevent his retaliatory dismissal. He states that the President is not truthful and highlights their communication regarding issues related to the Audit Office's investigations. Finally, he accuses Christodoulides of failing to address the corruption issue. Michailidis urges the President to focus on the real problems facing society.

The U.S. Department of Justice accused Iran of planning the assassination of Donald Trump. U.S. authorities consider the claim credible that a 51-year-old Iranian was instructed to carry out the plot. Iran rejected the accusations, calling them baseless and part of a conspiracy against the country. Tensions remain high due to Trump's previous policies towards Iran.

The police arrested a 23-year-old man following a report of theft from a residence. The 27-year-old homeowner spotted the thief and chased him, during which the thief attacked him with a knife. The 23-year-old had an arrest warrant issued for a previous theft. After receiving medical attention, he was detained for further investigations.

Nikos Loizidis, a police union representative, appeared before a disciplinary body, accusing former police chief Stelios Papathodouros of deliberately hiding negative issues. The proceedings were postponed due to a request from his lawyers for a suspension of the disciplinary action. Loizidis emphasized the importance of protecting workers' rights and the value of unionism against silencing practices. He faces serious charges related to his union activities.

The UK is waiting for an invitation from the UN Secretary-General to participate in a multilateral meeting regarding Cyprus. A representative from Downing Street stated that the UK is ready to engage to assist in resolving the issue. The situation is closely monitored by Nicosia and all involved parties. Developments are expected before the end of the year.

73-year-old Simon Mistriel Aykut is facing trial for large-scale usurpation of Greek land in occupied areas. The court rejected defense objections and confirmed that the Republic of Cyprus has the right to adjudicate this case. The ruling emphasizes the importance of protecting the property rights of Greek Cypriots. This case involves legal questions regarding the jurisdiction of Cypriot courts over properties in occupied territories.

The Cabinet of Cyprus approved a new policy focused on preschool children, including the establishment of Multifunctional Centers for Children. The strategy aims to enhance access to affordable education and care services while supporting the reconciliation of family and professional life. The policy acknowledges the importance of early childhood development for later school performance. A Ministerial Committee will be created to oversee the implementation of this strategy.

As temperatures drop, viruses are expected to attack, particularly throughout the winter. There is already an increase in respiratory infections, such as the flu and the common cold. Managing these illnesses requires rest, sleep, and increased fluid intake for recovery. It is also important to self-isolate to prevent the spread of viruses to others.

Delays in the Akamas projects persist as timelines for the Sustainable Development Plan have not been followed. There are pending issues related to the ecological impact assessment and project contracts. The road network works have been frozen, and final construction proposals are still pending. Completion of these works is necessary by 2027 for funding absorption.

Electric vehicles are a priority for reducing emissions, but there are limitations that make choosing electric vehicles more challenging. Transport Minister Alexis Vafeaides noted that electric vehicle prices remain high, and governments are concerned about meeting emission reduction targets through them. Despite state incentives, the installation of photovoltaics and the purchase of electric cars are financially demanding. The production of electric vehicles by manufacturers is declining due to commercial interests and shortages of raw materials.

The Energy Minister stated that changes are being considered in the electricity market to reduce profits from renewable energy sources. The aim is to lower electricity costs and avoid overpricing. An application to the EU for a waiver from the electricity market model is also being explored. If approved, it is expected to benefit residential and commercial consumers.