Donald Trump announced a new tariff package aimed at forcing companies to bring their production back to the U.S. New levels of tariffs will be calculated, taking into account the trade policies of other countries. This decision could lead to trade wars and intense negotiations. Trump stated that tariffs would not apply to companies producing within the U.S.
The court found sufficient evidence for the charge of murder against a 45-year-old driver involved in a quadruple fatal accident in Polemidia. The court determined that there are adequate grounds for five charges, including murder. The defendant admitted to some charges but his defense plans to call witnesses in the next hearing. The case is scheduled to continue at the end of February.
A government bill proposes to remove masks from participants in gatherings and parades to ensure their identification. The legislation introduces penalties for this action and sets out the circumstances under which gatherings can be restricted or dissolved by the Police. The aim is to legally regulate the right to assembly while respecting modern realities and safety. This bill aligns with the Constitution and seeks to enhance public order.
President Nikos Christodoulides announced 30 projects worth €122 million for the Free Famagusta area, aimed at improving the region's infrastructure and economy. The projects include road network upgrades, park development, and enhancements to tourism facilities. Additionally, support will be provided to businesses and employment issues will be addressed. The goal is to enhance the quality of life for citizens and strengthen the middle class.
Kyriakos Chrysochos left his hometown of Lefkara for Nicosia at the age of 15 and later studied in New York. He worked hard and founded Cyfield, becoming a leader in the construction sector in Cyprus. His journey was filled with challenges, perseverance, and hard work. The discussion on LegalMatters explores his journey and experiences.
The Cyprus Police arrested three individuals associated with a football club for financial offenses. The arrested are the president, the general secretary, and a player agent. Arrests were made following an operation that uncovered double contracts and forgery. The case is under investigation for serious offenses such as forgery and the circulation of counterfeit documents.
Tonight is expected to be the coldest night of the winter, with temperatures dropping to around 1 degree inland and -3 in the mountains. Winds will be mainly weak and from the southwest. Tomorrow, the weather will be mostly clear with a slight rise in temperatures, reaching 16 degrees inland. Conditions are favorable for frost formation in mountainous areas.
Averof Neofytou expressed his wish for "MAGA" to awaken Europe and create "MEGA". In his post, he shared experiences from New York, talking to ordinary people who voted for Trump. He emphasized that politics is now present in people's daily lives, presenting significant dilemmas and challenges. He clarified that he hopes MAGA will not lead to a smaller Europe.
A Family Court in Limassol sentenced a mother to 15 days in prison for obstructing her child's communication with the father. The father had not seen his child for four years because the mother did not comply with court orders. Despite a prior suspended sentence, the mother continued to disregard the court's decision. The court emphasized that the father's right to communicate with his child is fundamental.
The Trump administration is closing the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), causing uncertainty for employees in Cyprus and elsewhere. USAID staff in Cyprus have been placed on administrative leave and are asked to return to the U.S. This return is expected to come with significant financial costs. Experts are urging other countries to step in with funding to mitigate the upheaval caused by the reduction of U.S. foreign aid.
The Ministry of Transport is considering the possibility of issuing a decree regarding company charges related to the replacement of Takata airbags. Energy, Commerce and Industry Minister George Papanastasiou mentioned that there are two legislations concerning the issue. One falls under the Consumer Protection Service and the other under the Department of Road Transport. The review of the second law is currently underway within the Ministry of Transport.
The police arrested a 20-year-old cadet officer and two others in connection with a drug-related case. The detainees are facing charges including conspiracy and illegal possession of drugs, as well as participation in a criminal organization. All three were brought before the District Court of Nicosia, which imposed an eight-day detention. The police emphasize their commitment to combating corruption.
The proposed law grants voting rights to descendants of refugees in the electoral district of their mother's origin. If passed, it will lead to a redistribution of parliamentary seats, with Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos losing seats, while Famagusta and Kyrenia gain. A total of 39,000 descendants of refugees have registered to vote. These changes will further impact political dynamics in the future.
President Nikos Christodoulides stated that there is no reason for concern regarding citizen safety in connection with a suspicious organization. He mentioned that arrests have been made and that further procedures are underway. He emphasized that individuals in difficult situations may be exploited by others. He awaits the completion of the investigations before making additional statements.
The Ministry of Finance has submitted bills to Parliament that abolish multiple pensions for state officials. Instead of pensions, new officials will receive a gratuity based on 3% of their monthly salary. The gratuity calculation will vary depending on the category of the official, and the lump sum will be taxed at 15%. This regulation will only apply to new state officials.
The Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) has decided to grant a new allowance and reinstate two previous allowances that were frozen since 2011. The new budget includes three allowances, one of which pertains to overtime work. The two reinstated allowances relate to travel and shift work for staff. Their reinstatement is set for 2025 following a recommendation from the Ministry of Finance.
The appointment of a special envoy for the Cyprus process is being discussed by the United Nations. The Greek Cypriot side has shown a positive attitude towards the appointment, while there has been no response from the Turkish Cypriot side so far. The UN Secretary-General aims to bring all parties to the negotiating table. The situation is complex and requires consensus from all stakeholders before a final decision can be made.
The Cabinet has approved an amendment to the National Guard law, allowing for the voluntary enlistment of women. The Minister of Defense expressed satisfaction with this development, seeing it as significant for Cyprus's defense. The year 2025 has been designated as the Year of Women in the National Guard, promoting their participation in various fields. However, additional measures are needed to ensure the success of this initiative.
The meeting of the Political Bureau of DISY was productive, but the party's president must balance various internal party trends. A key issue is the term limits, with proposals either to abolish these limits or to allow exceptions for party leadership. This decision will be made at the Statutory Congress, where a two-thirds majority is required. The president's stance during her initial speech will significantly influence the final decision.
The Minister of Education announced the establishment of two Technical Gymnasiums in Nicosia and Limassol starting from the 2025-2026 school year. The initiative aims to enhance Technical and Vocational Education and address skill mismatches in the job market. Students will have the option to choose from four specializations, including Mechanical Science and Tourism Studies. The program's implementation will be evaluated at the end of its first year.
A group of Greek Cypriots suspected of criminal activity has caught the attention of the police and the public. The suspicions focus on at least 80 members promoting their ideology, possibly due to economic hardships. The police are investigating the allegations against the suspects, with arrests and inquiries already underway. The case emerged following complaints about irregularities in rental agreements and document forgery.
The examination of a 180MW solar park in the communities of Lythrodontas, Catalyonta, and Mathiatis has moved to the next phase. The project does not affect the protected area of 'Yialias River' due to the necessary buffer zone being maintained. However, local authorities and organized groups oppose the construction. The project is expected to proceed to further environmental assessment.