The Trump administration has begun its first deportation flights, sending migrants who entered the U.S. illegally. The migrants boarded a military aircraft while chained. The government spokesperson stated that this action sends a strong message about the consequences of illegal entry. Approximately 75-80 individuals were deported to Guatemala.
Vladimir Putin suggested possibilities for discussions with Donald Trump regarding the situation in Ukraine and energy prices. He noted that negotiations with Ukraine are complicated due to Zelensky's decree. Putin stated that if Trump had been president in 2020, the war in Ukraine might not have started. He considers Trump intelligent and realistic, proposing meetings for peaceful discussions on issues concerning both the US and Russia.
President Nikos Christodoulides will visit Cairo on February 17 to sign two agreements related to the development of natural gas reserves in Cyprus's exclusive economic zone. This visit comes at the invitation of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. The agreements will focus on the Kronos and Aphrodite fields. Christodoulides described this move as an important step towards enhancing development in the region.
The activity of influenza and the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) remains high, with 22 recorded deaths from seasonal infections. Hospital admissions are numerous, primarily involving patients with severe flu symptoms. Authorities expect a further increase in cases in early February. Special attention is needed for the elderly, who are more vulnerable to severe complications.
Three employees of the Department of Forests have been suspended by the Public Service Commission due to a criminal investigation against them. The investigation focuses on irregularities in bids for aerial firefighting resources, examining procedures followed from 2017 onwards. A prior administrative inquiry revealed possible irregularities and criminal offenses. The findings were forwarded to the Minister of Agriculture, prompting legal action.
In Cyprus, 36.1% of women have experienced physical or sexual violence. The research highlights increasing forms of violence, including child abuse in Europe. The NGO Support Center presented initiatives aimed at addressing these issues, focusing on legal recognition of femicide and supporting victims. The European PREVENT program aims to prevent gender-based violence, providing funding for specific projects in Cyprus and Greece.
The second phase of air conditioning installation in schools includes 54 educational institutions across various regions. The schools have been selected by the Metropolitan School Boards, and the installation is accompanied by electrical upgrades where necessary. There is also a check by the Electricity Authority of Cyprus to certify the electrical installations. This project contributes to upgrading the school infrastructures.
The Paphos - Polis Chrysochous highway is set to be reconstructed at a cost of €330 million, to be completed in two phases. The first phase has already started, aiming for completion within 3 years. This project will enhance transport capacity and road safety in the area. Additionally, plans for upgrading the road to a four-lane highway are expected to be completed by 2032.
A bullet was found in a second vehicle involved in the Potamia incident. The vehicle belongs to an Iranian suspect who is in custody and was retrieved in Limassol. Fortunately, the positioning of the bullet prevented a second victim from occurring. The 39-year-old Cameroonian suspect confessed to transporting the 24-year-old Pakistani, who was shot by the police.
Drilling activities in Block 5 of Cyprus' EEZ began today by ExxonMobil and QatarEnergy. Cyprus aims to become a reliable source of natural gas for the EU, enhancing its energy security. The drilling is expected to last several weeks and will be evaluated to determine the next phase of the country's energy plans. The drilling operations are being monitored by the Hydrocarbon Service personnel.
In the upcoming Joker draw, at least €17,000,000 will be shared among the winners of the first category. This draw is scheduled for Sunday, January 26, 2025, following a Jackpot that was recorded in the 2862nd draw. No winner was found in the second category either. The lucky numbers from the last draw were 7, 8, 27, 36, 43 with Joker number 6.
The vote at 17 and automatic registration in electoral rolls are two significant changes that could affect the upcoming parliamentary elections. However, the participation of 17-year-olds in the electorate is expected to be low, as many of them have not shown interest in registering. These changes could introduce uncertainty in the political landscape, but if participation increases, it may alter the party map. Additionally, the proposal for mail-in voting could help boost election participation.
The Ministry of Health is proposing the creation of different categories of Accident and Emergency departments to alleviate overcrowding in emergency rooms. Patient visits increased by 73% in 2024 in Nicosia. Citizens will be able to go to units for non-urgent issues, reducing their inconvenience. This proposed structure aims to provide better service to patients.
The meeting of the Minister of Agriculture with the Associations of Municipalities and Communities established the next steps for implementing the 'Pay as You Throw' system. There are concerns about the costs consumers may have to face. However, initial estimates suggest that costs could be lower than current fees. There is consensus on the need to implement source separation for environmental benefits.
New hotel developments are set to begin on Makarios Avenue in Nicosia, including a 168-room hotel owned by the Israeli Fattal Group. A 70-room boutique hotel will also open in the former Anastasiades clinic nearby. Additionally, there are various ongoing projects in the area for residential units and office spaces. Construction works are already underway.
The Minister of Agriculture is expected to request that three individuals from the Forest Department be put on leave due to an investigation into financial irregularities in tenders for aerial firefighting resources. The police investigation focuses on bids for the leasing and maintenance of firefighting aircraft. Contracts made since 2017 are currently under scrutiny. Results from the police investigations are awaited to determine the next steps.
The relationship between Archbishop Georgios and Paphos Metropolitan Tychikos appears strained. The Archbishop expressed concerns regarding Tychikos' stance on various secular matters and administration of the Paphos Metropolitan area. Additionally, he questioned the feasibility of cooperation regarding the transfer of Saint Paul's skull. This conflict may generate further tensions if it remains unresolved.
The Ministry of Finance requested five football clubs to submit their proposals in writing for settling their tax debts, as there was confusion regarding the figures. The clubs proposed to pay one-third of their obligations up front, but there are issues with new debts incurred. The Tax Department will review the written proposals, and if no agreement is reached, the charges will not be withdrawn. The situation remains uncertain until a final decision is made by the government.