Following the meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Donald Trump, Western leaders publicly expressed their support for Zelensky and the Ukrainian people. French President Macron emphasized the importance of respecting those who fight, while Polish Prime Minister Tusk reassured that Ukraine is not alone. Similarly, leaders from Spain and Estonia conveyed their solidarity in symbolic ways. Russia is reportedly satisfied with the outcome of the meeting.
The Ministry of Education proposes the creation of 55 new inspector positions and 540 senior educator positions as part of a new evaluation system. The plan is expected to cost around 12 million euros over the next five years. Educational organizations will discuss the proposal with the Minister of Education in March. The positions will be distributed based on educational level, with a gradual implementation of evaluations starting in 2026.
Tania Gomez, the most wanted woman in Europe, was arrested in the Canary Islands after four years on the run. She is accused of drug trafficking and illegal animal trade, as well as laundering money. Authorities link her to a criminal organization in Stockholm and seek a 14-year prison sentence. The extradition process to Sweden is currently underway.
Volodymyr Zelensky visited the White House to sign an agreement regarding rare earth elements. Donald Trump criticized the Ukrainian president, emphasizing the need for caution in negotiations and claiming Zelensky is gambling with the Third World War. Despite the tense discussions, Trump stated he desires a resolution to the issue and does not plan on sending more weapons. The tension between the two leaders highlights the challenges Ukraine faces in securing support from the U.S.
Alexis Kougias passed away at the age of 74, leaving behind a significant legacy as a lawyer and public figure. Coming from a poor background, he distinguished himself in the legal field and showcased his personality through many public interventions. He also served as president of a football team and had various relationships and conflicts with other public figures. Despite the challenges, he remained very close to his family and his children.
Four members of the English School's board resigned in response to allegations made by the school's director. Their resignations stem from a desire not to associate with the other members mentioned in the complaints. Parents are supporting the director and demanding the resignation of the remaining board members, while the Presidential office is reviewing the situation. Tensions remain high, with further resignations and possible reappointments likely.
The Consumer Protection Service conducted a study on the retail prices of consumer products for Clean Monday. The research was carried out at 68 sales points and included vegetables, salads, halva, and seafood. The aim is to inform consumers about the prices of essential products during Lent. The prices show significant increases compared to previous years.
Three members of the English School's board are reportedly resigning. These members distanced themselves from five others mentioned in a complaint made by the school's director. They wish to avoid any collaboration with the remaining board members involved in the issue. More details are expected soon.
The government presented proposals for tax reform. Public opinion is questioning whether these proposals meet citizens' expectations, particularly regarding low-income earners and the middle class. An online survey is collecting citizens' opinions, with results to be published soon. Everyone is invited to participate in the survey.
The criminal investigators Thanasis Athanasiou and Lampros Pappas have refuted the claims made by forensic expert Panikos Stavrianos regarding his treatment during the investigation. They assert that their actions were legal and appropriate, and that Stavrianos was present with his lawyer. They clarify that the claims do not reflect the truth and emphasize the importance of maintaining the integrity of their ongoing investigation. Their statement focuses on their commitment to continue and complete their assigned duties.
Alexis Kougias, a well-known criminal lawyer, passed away at the age of 74 after a prolonged stay in the ICU. His health condition worsened, leading to his intubation. The news of his death has saddened the legal community. He leaves behind a significant legacy.
The Cyprus Meteorological Department has issued a yellow warning for strong storms that will be in effect from 12:00 to 18:00 today. Storms are expected mainly in mountainous and southern areas, with possible hail and strong winds. Rainfall intensity may reach 55 millimeters per hour, leading to potential travel issues. Over the weekend, the weather will mostly be clear with local rain and low temperatures in the mountainous regions.
The case of Christina Giannaki, the Director General of the Ministry of Health, is stirring controversy due to her planned transition to the OAY. George Kalinikou comments on the inability of both the Ministry of Health and OAY to manage the program for sending patients abroad. He emphasizes the unacceptable situation where a public service lays off an employee only to potentially rehire them through the OAY. The lack of action over the transfer of the program to the appropriate services has already lasted 19 months.
The trial for the murder of Thanasis Kalogeropoulos continues at the Permanent Criminal Court of Limassol with testimonies from eyewitnesses and the showing of a video. New witnesses describe the events and actions that took place at the time of the murder. One witness stated he saw a man in black clothing holding a large gun. The video presented captures the departure of the assailants from the crime scene.
The Minister of Commerce has announced a price cap on water, setting it at 60 cents. The decree applies to bottled and drinking water sold at specific points, such as airports and beaches. It only applies to standing consumers and imposes penalties for violations. This decision is part of new legislation that was passed earlier.
The Health Insurance Organization has not adequately prepared for the necessary advancement of the patient referral program abroad, as the retirement of the Ministry of Health's director, Christina Giannaki, approaches. There is a proposal for Giannaki to provide consulting services to the OAY for six months, but the situation remains unclear. The OAY had previously committed to integrating these services into the General Health System, but the processes have been delayed. This issue has sparked strong reactions and a solution to fill the gap is being sought.
Today marks two years since the tragic train accident in Tempi, which claimed the lives of 57 people. Commemoration and protest events are being held across Greece and Cyprus, demanding justice. A nationwide strike has also been called, with large participation expected from various workers. In Athens, the main gathering will take place at Syntagma Square in the morning.
Odysseas Michailidis is being considered by some members of DIKO as a potential candidate for the upcoming parliamentary elections. There are concerns about the party's dynamics, as the election of Christodoulides did not resolve ongoing issues. Michailidis has stated that he will not participate in any party's electoral list, but his presence remains significant. Internal disagreements within DIKO are escalating, particularly following public objections to government bills.
Today, the President will meet with 11 unions to discuss key labor issues. Main topics include improving social dialogue, the hiring process for foreign workers, tax reform, and the restoration of the cost of living allowance (ATA). The unions are calling for clear government policy ahead of 2025. The meeting is expected to highlight seven main issues that need to be addressed.
The Court of Appeal overturned the acquittal of the Criminal Court regarding the case of Iranian investor Tony Newman. Eight defendants previously acquitted in connection with his naturalization will now have their case retried by a different panel of the Criminal Court. The Appeal Court's decision is strict, criticizing the handling of the initial ruling and noting significant shortcomings. The Attorney General had filed an appeal for the annulment of the acquittal, requesting a new trial of the case.
The English School is in turmoil following allegations made by the headmaster, Stuart Walker, about pressure from board members to admit a student who failed the entrance exams. The President is considering dismissing the board members in the next cabinet meeting. The headmaster emphasized that the integrity of the admission process is more important than favoritism towards an individual. The exam results will remain unchanged.
The private energy sector in Cyprus is protesting the upgrade of the power station in Dhekelia, arguing that the cost recovery from all consumers would strengthen EAC's dominant position in the market. The Electricity Market Association (ΣΑΗ) has accused the Cypriot government of providing state aid to EAC through these measures. ΣΑΗ believes issues of electricity supply can be resolved with alternative solutions, such as utilizing the power station in Vasilikos. The government's decision to proceed with the installation of new generators has raised concerns about potential market implications.
The treatment of asylum seekers and illegal migrants costs €45 million annually for public hospitals in Cyprus. The State Health Services Organization provides services without receiving payments for them. Changes in the pricing of these services are expected soon, which will also include migrant treatment. The new policy aims to enable the organization to issue invoices and claim the owed amounts.
The UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, expresses hope for progress on the Cyprus issue during the informal meeting in Geneva. His goal is to keep the negotiation process alive, although no decisive steps are expected at this time. The foreign ministers of Cyprus and Greece have already communicated about the situation. Meanwhile, Ersin Tatar continues to make negative proposals regarding the process.