Donald Trump announced that he had a phone conversation with Vladimir Putin, where they agreed to start immediate negotiations on various issues, including Ukraine and the Middle East. Both leaders expressed their desire to end the war in Ukraine. Trump also plans to speak with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to update him on the conversation. The leaders' communication confirmed their wish to move forward with a meeting.
The Parliament is discussing a proposal to increase the number of MPs from 80 to 90 to enhance representation. Additionally, the introduction of a system for electing nationwide MPs from the entire electorate is being considered. Another proposal concerns voting rights for refugees of maternal descent, aiming to secure their human rights. These planned changes are expected to modernize the electoral law and strengthen the democratic process.
Karpasia experienced severe hailstorms, covering roads and fields with hail. Damage occurred to homes and properties in the occupied villages. Authorities have begun assessing the damage, and various services are working on recovery efforts. Images of the bad weather have made a significant impression online.
The executive director of the Larnaca – Famagusta region, George Antoniou, has been suspended due to allegations of intimidation and pressure against his subordinates. The Health Services Organization stated that this decision will remain until the investigation is completed. The initial investigation report found no responsibilities, but it was deemed incomplete, leading to further inquiry. Every employee has the presumption of innocence until proven otherwise.
The Education Committee of the Parliament has highlighted the increase in drug use and trafficking within schools. Teachers often fear reporting such incidents, impacting the response to these issues. Lawmakers have requested information on cases of students needing help. The Ministry of Education has protocols in place for referring students to specialists and treatment centers.
The communities of Eastern Limassol are reacting to the Ministry of Education's decision not to approve the construction of the Regional High School in Parekklisia. More than 820 students will be boycotting classes, while parents are planning a full-day strike. The project has been recognized as necessary since 2022, and there is a donation of 3 million euros for its construction. Parents emphasize that transporting children for education exceeds 40 kilometers daily.
The audit report reveals that individuals with considerable wealth applied for plots meant for low-income families, some having properties valued over €1 million. The report highlights delays in the application review process and inappropriate plots awarded to beneficiaries. There is a potential risk to the Republic of Cyprus from outstanding debts related to loans for home construction. Additionally, many plots remain unsold in various communities.
The trial for the murder of Thanasis Kalogeropoulos is ongoing, with the testimony of an eyewitness being presented. The witness describes the moment of the attack, noting that the perpetrator wore black clothes and a carnival mask while holding an automatic weapon. Immediately after the gunshots, he saw the victim's vehicle immobilized. The witness's shock reflects the intensity of the situation.
A child called their mother from the school bathroom saying they were in danger, highlighting serious issues faced by children in schools. The president of the Occupational Therapists' Association discussed the need to address children's trauma to prevent delinquent behaviors. The Education Committee pointed out the delays in implementing legislation regarding delinquency in schools and the need for alternative education for children with extreme behaviors. Additionally, the shortage of educational psychologists in schools was emphasized.
The administrative investigation concerning vehicle recalls highlights the lack of information regarding used cars in Cyprus. The Minister of Transport has requested the Legal Service's assistance for the next steps. A circular from 2017 exempts dealers from informing about recalls of used vehicles, posing a risk to their owners. There is concern about defective airbags in imported vehicles.
The Cabinet has approved the voluntary enlistment of women in the National Guard. The Minister of Defense emphasized that this decision represents progress and modernization of the Armed Forces, promoting participation in national security. The first voluntary enlistment is expected to begin in October 2025. There is also consideration for two phases of voluntary enlistment.
Today, the trial for the murder of Thanasis Kaloggeropoulos began at the Permanent Criminal Court of Limassol. His wife, Anastasia, testified that she saw a man in a gray vehicle outside their home on the morning of the murder. The defendants did not plead guilty, and five witnesses are set to testify during the process. The case has progressed after delays related to legal issues.
A gynecologist in a public hospital was labeling scheduled cesarean sections as emergencies to receive higher reimbursements. Following checks by the Health Insurance Organization, these cases were exposed, resulting in a €15,000 fine for the doctor and a €10,000 fine for the hospital. Significant fines were also imposed on other doctors and hospitals for undocumented medical procedures. The Health Insurance Organization recovered a total of €17,000 from the health service providers involved.
Konstantinos Tasoulas was elected as the new President of the Hellenic Republic, receiving 160 votes in the fourth voting round, while 151 votes were required. He is set to be sworn in on March 13, when the term of the current President, Katerina Sakellaropoulou, ends. Other candidates received fewer votes. In total, 24 MPs were absent from the voting process.
Today, the Cabinet will decide to allow women to enlist voluntarily in the National Guard after graduating from high school. This decision enhances the National Guard's value and acknowledges the collective responsibility for the country's security. Additionally, the President of the Republic expressed satisfaction with the improvement in transparency in Cyprus, as reflected in the report by Transparency International. The government continues its efforts for modernization and improvement of healthcare services.
Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is trying to achieve a historic peace agreement with the PKK Kurds by reviving peace talks and negotiating with the U.S. about Kurdish forces in Syria. Erdoğan sees the situation as an opportunity to control the threat of Kurdish nationalism. The success of these efforts could strengthen his ambitions to reshape the Middle East and bolster his position within Turkey. A key factor is Abdullah Öcalan, who is expected to make a significant statement on February 15.
Limassol is getting ready to celebrate the carnival, which this year will take place in the neighborhoods of the city. With numerous events and a parade featuring 120 participants, this year's celebration is expected to be the largest so far. Hotels are already fully booked, as carnival goers secured their reservations well in advance. The events kick off on February 19th with a rich program and many activities.
A 39-year-old man is in serious condition in the Intensive Care Unit following a workplace accident in Limassol. He fell from a height of 6 meters at a construction site under renovation and sustained severe injuries. He is intubated but stable. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Nicosia is waiting for Rosemary DiCarlo's meetings in Athens and Ankara, which will shape the prospects for the upcoming conference in Geneva. The Turkish side will be crucial for the success of the meeting. President Christodoulides stressed the need for a positive outcome and proposed five specific actions. The focus is more on Ankara than on the occupied territories, while expectations for the broader conference are high.
The process of selecting a presidential candidate is causing concerns within DISY. There are strong reservations regarding direct selection from the base, as it may lead to political risks. The party leadership has decided to continue discussions to find a better selection method while maintaining the role of the Supreme Council. Meanwhile, further important discussions are planned during the constitutional conference.
MPs expressed concern about a legislative gap allowing excessive charges for the replacement of Takata airbags. They called for intervention from the Ministry of Transport and the Consumer Protection Agency to safeguard consumers. Agency officials stated that the charges are legal, although ethically questionable. The issue will continue to be discussed in the parliamentary committee next week.
The Cyprus police are investigating a case involving a group of 80 individuals who seem to operate under military rules. This group allegedly adheres to its own code and uses false stamps and documents to achieve its goals. Two members have been arrested and detained for 8 days, while a third person is being sought. The group's method of operation raises concerns and indicates organized crime.
The development in Prasteio Avdimou is expected to exceed 1 billion euros and includes significant facilities such as a hospital, school, and university. The Cypriot company DNP Property Group is responsible for the project, covering nearly 820,000 square meters. The Managing Director, Dimitris Nikola Papacharidis, shared his vision for the development, which aims to have a positive impact on local communities. The project intends to create infrastructures that will serve both residents and visitors.
There is a growing interest from private universities in Cyprus to establish Medical Schools due to the high demand for medical studies. The DIPAE Authority clarifies the necessary requirements for founding new schools, which include adequate infrastructure and the presence of a university hospital. Additionally, foreign universities are also considering opening their branches in Cyprus. These requirements ensure the quality of education for students.
The Cypriot Minister of Finance expresses concerns regarding the electrical interconnection with Greece, known as the Great Sea Interconnector. While the Energy Ministers seem satisfied with the Greek response, Keravnos highlights the geopolitical risks posed by Turkey. His concerns relate not only to Turkish actions but also to the economic viability of the project. The impending agreement could lead to serious political complications in addition to the worries raised by Keravnos.