Recently, there has been significant seismic activity around Santorini and nearby islands, with the largest quake reaching 4.4 on the Richter scale. Authorities have decided to close schools on Monday, February 3, 2025, as a precautionary measure. Citizens are also advised to avoid large gatherings and certain ports. The seismic activity is not related to volcanic activity.
The U.S. and newly elected President Donald Trump are calling for elections in Ukraine by the end of the year, contingent upon a ceasefire agreement with Russia. Key officials emphasize the need for elections to maintain democracy. However, there are concerns that the election process may undermine unity amidst the ongoing war. Meanwhile, Moscow is using the uncertainty around the elections as leverage.
The President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, confirmed receiving threatening messages and expressed confidence in the authorities investigating the matter. In anticipation of Ms. di Carlo's visit, he emphasized the need for preparation for talks concerning the crossings, hoping for positive results. Ersin Tatar requested some time to decide how to proceed. Christodoulides highlighted his readiness to meet and provide specific proposals.
President Nicos Christodoulides confirmed that he received a threatening message and expressed his trust in the authorities of Cyprus. He did not provide details about the incident, which is linked to an ongoing investigation at the Central Prison. The case is treated as a matter of national security, with the authorities maintaining silence. The situation is being closely monitored by the relevant officials.
A threatening message directed at President Christodoulides is linked to searches conducted in the Central Prisons. These searches took place on Friday night and resulted in the seizure of items belonging to a suspect involved in property misappropriation. Concerns related to national security prompted authorities to maintain a strict stance. Specifically, a television and a personal agenda were seized from the suspect's cell.
In the investigation of robberies at kiosks in Limassol, a significant development is the questioning of a suspect by the authorities. The investigations are ongoing with the aid of surveillance footage. There is a possibility of arrests in the coming hours, as the police seem to be making good progress. In recent days, three robberies and one attempted robbery have been reported.
Arab foreign ministers rejected Trump's proposal to transfer Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan. They emphasized that such a move would threaten the region's stability and the rights of Palestinians. The joint statement was made after a meeting in Cairo, highlighting the need for a fair peace solution in the Middle East. Egypt's Sisi stated that his country would not facilitate the displacement of Gaza residents.
There was a disturbance in the center of Nicosia when citizens reported a fight. The altercation occurred around 3:00 PM on Onasagorou Street, involving four to five foreign individuals. The police arrived quickly at the scene and arrested one person.
A 60-year-old woman is in serious condition after attempting to rescue her dog from a burning house in Strovolos. Unfortunately, she was unable to save her dog and suffered severe burns. Initial assessments suggest that the fire was caused by a motorcycle repair facility. The community mourns the loss of the dog.
There have been consecutive robberies at kiosks in Limassol, causing concern among authorities. In the first incident, the employee managed to thwart the robber, while just five minutes later, two perpetrators entered another kiosk and stole money and cigarettes. The robberies were captured by security cameras. These attacks mark the fourth in the area within a week.
A 60-year-old woman is in serious condition and intubated due to burns on her face and hand after a fire broke out at a residence in Strovolos. A 58-year-old man at the scene received first aid and was discharged. The fire started in a two-story house, and a large gas cylinder was discovered during the firefighting efforts. Authorities have begun investigations into the cause of the fire.
The Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) is moving forward with the installation of an energy storage system in Dekeleia, costing 45 million euros, although the upgrade of the station is not yet determined. This investment in storage is expected to help manage issues arising from the increased penetration of renewable energy sources. However, the EAC is considering alternative solutions for new generators due to their high cost, which approaches 140 million euros.
Veronica Agatha Poupou, a 20-year-old student of Maritime Science, is pursuing her dream in shipping despite the challenges of a male-dominated profession. She decided to follow this career path at the age of 12, and her parents have supported her fully since then. Facing negative comments, Veronica has remained focused on her goals, proving that the profession is not gender-specific. She is preparing for a new sea voyage, already gaining significant experience in her career.
Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Sara Haskel discusses the difficult emotions faced by Israelis as they await the release of hostages during the current ceasefire with Hamas. She highlights the contradictions between the necessity of the ceasefire and the ongoing commitment to eliminate Hamas. Haskel also addresses the negative international perception of Israel due to casualties in Gaza and the political challenges posed by terrorist groups. She emphasizes the importance of defending the shared values and democracy that Israel represents.
Cyprus is planning to establish a National Crisis Management Center that will coordinate all disaster response services. The new '112 new generation' hotline will allow for immediate updates on the availability of ambulances and fire trucks. Coordination will be managed through a central platform to improve response to citizens' needs. This reform is expected to enhance civil protection in Cyprus.
The President of the Republic of Cyprus announced the construction of a Pediatric Oncology Clinic funded by the Cleantou Foundation, with donations exceeding 10 million euros. The clinic will be built near Makarios Hospital and will meet international standards, providing high-quality care. Kosta Cleantou, the donor and co-founder of XM, is covering the entire cost of the project. The official signing of the agreement with the Ministry of Health and OKYPY is expected to take place in February.
The Drug Enforcement Agency has seized assets valued over €1.1 million since 2020. It is responsible for combating drug trafficking, conducting financial investigations, and preventing drug addiction. So far, €250,000 has been confiscated through court decisions, and further seizures are expected by 2025. The enforcement procedures are conducted in collaboration with the Financial Intelligence Unit and other departments.
The Police force is facing serious issues, such as prisoner escapes and failures in policing events. Despite concerns raised to the GRECO Group, the Government has taken no action. The problems stem from long-standing weaknesses and cannot be solely blamed on the current Government. There is a need for modernization and improvement in the organization of the Police.