The low-pressure system named Alexandros is bringing storms, rain, and hail to Cyprus. A yellow warning for severe weather is in effect from tonight. Temperatures will be around 24 degrees, and snow is possible in the higher mountains. In the coming days, the weather will mainly be cloudy with local rain and thunderstorms.
Kyriakos Mitsotakis's decision to expel Antonis Samaras from New Democracy marks Samaras's second departure from the party. His recent statements and criticism of the government prompted this decision. The situation had escalated to a point that required intervention and resolution from Mitsotakis. This development confirmed the rift between them after years of collaboration.
Kyriakos Mitsotakis has expelled Antonis Samaras from the New Democracy party after Samaras attacked the government in a recent interview. The government spokesperson emphasized that Samaras has put himself outside the party for the second time, stressing the need for stability in the country. The government states that distortions of policy cannot be tolerated. New Democracy continues its successful course, according to the government spokesperson.
The Geological Survey Department in Cyprus reported seven small earthquakes on Saturday morning. Three of these were felt by residents in Limassol and Paphos. The quakes measured M=3.3, M=3.6, and M=3.7 on the Richter scale. The phenomenon is being monitored by the Seismological Center, with information available on their website.
A seismic tremor of 3.7 on the Richter scale was registered in Cyprus. The earthquake occurred at 10:49 AM, approximately 6 kilometers south of Pissouri. It was mostly felt in Limassol, with several residents reporting a brief but strong jolt.
Donald Trump appointed 27-year-old Caroline Levitt as the new White House Press Secretary, making her the youngest to hold this position. Levitt previously distinguished herself as the press secretary during the Trump campaign. Additionally, Trump announced other important appointments to his team. These changes mark the beginning of his second term with a strong and trusted staff.
Ersin Tatar, the leader of the occupying authorities, stated that he would not bow his head during negotiations and reiterated the desire for recognition of the sovereignty of the pseudo-state. He declared that the model of federation is closed and that the path to a sustainable agreement goes through recognition of two separate states. He made clear his readiness for cooperation, but only on the basis of sovereignty, especially regarding energy resources. Lastly, he mentioned the pressures they face from the Republic of Cyprus, which he deems ineffective.
The UN Secretary-General is planning an informal multilateral conference on Cyprus, but wants proper preparation beforehand. The conference is expected to take place in the new year, with Rosemary DiCarlo visiting the area for preparations. Guterres aims to follow the strategy used in the previous dinner in New York, gathering all necessary preparations for better outcomes. President Christodoulides announced that a bilateral meeting with the Turkish Cypriot leader will precede the multilateral conference.
The Central Bank forecasts changes in the real estate market, with shifts in demand and prices. Increased supply and reduced fluctuations in the market are expected to lead to more moderate increases in housing prices. In areas like Limassol and Nicosia, supply seems to be rising, while regions like Paphos and Famagusta maintain high demand. Overall, prices are anticipated to slow down in the near future.
The abandonment of the Cypriot embassy in New York, which burned down seven years ago, raises concerns due to high rental costs. Taxpayers have paid around 3.5 million euros in rent while the building remains closed. No actions have been taken over the past years towards its restoration, and the timeline for restoration remains uncertain. This situation was highlighted during a discussion about the budget of the Ministry of Transport.
35% of patients obtain a referral to a specialist, while only 4% are referred for radiological exams. The numbers show a decline in the use of short-term referrals compared to the start of the General Health System, but there is a rise in long-term referrals. The process of recording referrals and evaluating personal doctors is ongoing. Starting in 2025, a new performance indicator for doctors will be fully implemented.
The Minister of Agriculture presented the 2025 budget, which aims to improve the quality of life and sustainability. The Ministry's priorities focus on seven key pillars, such as water resource management and environmental protection. Emphasis is placed on the need to leverage technology and adopt upgraded practices for agricultural development. The budget includes projects that will support farmers and improve infrastructure in the primary sector.
The investigations into the murder of Thanasis Nikolaou in 2005 are progressing, with criminal investigators requesting an extension to complete their work. So far, over 100 testimonies have been gathered, focusing on a close circle of individuals. The government aims to clarify the responsibilities regarding Thanasis's death and provide answers to his family. The final outcome may determine whether the responsibilities involve mere negligence or criminal actions.
In Yialia, an illegal beach bar was demolished that had been built without the necessary permits on state land. Its construction had serious environmental impacts, significantly affecting local habitats, flora, and fauna. The Paphos District Administration has taken steps to restore the area. A criminal case has already been filed against the bar's owners for their illegal activities.
New information reveals that the Cyprus Police are investigating a network funding terrorist organizations, focusing on Idlib in Syria. An amount of €712,000 was allegedly managed by the accused over a period of five months. The names of Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham and Hezbollah are involved, despite their history of conflict. The charges include participation in a terrorist organization and financing terrorist activities.