5 Minute News

2 months ago

Chinese platforms Shein and Temu will increase their product prices in the US starting April 25 due to higher tariffs imposed by Donald Trump. Changes in international trade rules and new tariffs are affecting the popularity of these companies, as Temu and Shein are losing positions among the most popular apps. In addition to raising prices, both companies have cut their advertising spending. While the US faces challenges, European markets show signs of recovery.

A company submitted a request in 2000 to lease state land in the Municipality of Geri, but the response came in 2025, rejecting the request. In the meantime, their farm had closed down, and the owners had forgotten about the pending application. The Land Registry took 25 years to respond to a request related to professional activities. In other cases, responses are given within a few months.

The dairy company Dodoni is passing to the group Ellinika Galaktokomeia of the Sarantis family for a bid of around 200 million euros. The acquisition will be submitted for approval to the Competition Commission by the end of April. The Sarantis family thus gains significant advantage in the feta market and strengthens its exports. This is their third attempt to acquire Dodoni.

A digital replica of the Holy Shroud will be displayed for veneration in Piazza Castello in Turin from April 28 to May 5. The replica will allow visitors to virtually explore every detail of the Shroud. Additionally, there will be exhibits related to the depictions of Jesus throughout the centuries. The authenticity of the Shroud continues to attract attention and discussions within the scientific and religious communities.

Serious criminal charges have been brought against the chief prison officer, a prisoner, and his wife, which include conspiracy and corruption. The second defendant is alleged to have sold goods to other prisoners at inflated prices, with the support of the first defendant. Their trial is set for June 24, with a risk of flight being considered. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.

Cyprus mourns four deaths from traffic accidents within 24 hours, with pedestrians and motorcyclists being the most vulnerable. The director of the Traffic Department emphasizes the need for stricter measures and greater awareness on road safety issues. He stated that such a concentration of accidents in such a short period has not been seen in recent years. The situation calls for coordination and stricter adherence to traffic regulations.

A new study from the University of Cambridge suggests that metformin, a diabetes medication, may prevent acute myeloid leukemia in high-risk individuals. The research revealed that metformin inhibits the growth of cancerous cells, providing hope for disease prevention. Professor Georgios Vasileiou, who led the research, emphasizes the importance of early detection and intervention. The study's findings could lead to clinical trials for using metformin as a preventive treatment.

Turkey has raised serious concerns about Greece's unilateral actions regarding the Marine Spatial Planning, stating that these actions are unacceptable and violate rights. Turkish authorities claim that Greece's statements have no legal consequence for Turkey and are closely monitoring developments. Ankara asserts that only through dialogue and goodwill can a fair sharing of maritime jurisdiction be achieved. This issue arises following the announcement of the National Spatial Framework by Athens.

Former Auditor General Odysseas Michailidis expressed concerns about the licenses for an illegal venue in Nicosia, accusing the Christodoulides government of lying. He questions how three licenses were issued in just seven days and raises issues about the transparency of the processes involved. He calls on the government to answer specific questions regarding the presidential candidate's relationship with the venue owner. At the same time, he advocates for better public administration and transparent procedures.

The owner of the reception hall responds to allegations of potential cover-ups, stating that its operation was fully legal. He claims that all necessary permits were secured since 2022 and that the accusations aim to harm innocent people. He also mentions that the hall is constructed with high-quality materials and modern equipment. The Auditor's report shows discrepancies regarding the dates of the permits.

President Nikos Christodoulides left the offices of the Independent Anti-Corruption Authority, stating that he answered all questions posed to him. He spent about 1.5 hours responding to inquiries about former President Nikos Anastasiades and the use of a private jet by him. The investigation focuses on allegations made in the book "Mafia State". The former President is set to testify before the investigation committee on April 28.

The Electricity Authority of Cyprus has announced an extension for the installation of smart meters in various areas, including Nicosia, Limassol, and Paphos, during April and May. As part of the installation, there will be a temporary power cut for up to 20 minutes. Citizens are asked to be understanding regarding any inconvenience caused. The meter replacement will be carried out safely.

Riana Konstantinou, the head of the Ambulance Service, expresses her deep sorrow following tragic road accidents during Holy Week. In a heartbreaking post, she describes the pain of families mourning their loved ones. She highlights the human aspect behind the death toll and the difficult work of the rescuers. Her post reflects collective grief and concern for road safety.

The Investigative Committee is examining the circulation of vehicles in Cyprus, focusing on defective Takata airbags. Representatives of used vehicle importers have provided information about the import and inspection processes. Today, the Cyprus Automobile Trade Union is testifying before the Committee to clarify the recall procedures. The committee continues its sessions to ensure vehicle safety in the market.

President Christodoulides appeared before the Independent Authority Against Corruption to provide testimony related to allegations from the book 'Mafia State'. During his arrival, he declined to comment to the press. The key issue involves the use of a private jet by former President Anastasiades, which is alleged to have been funded by Russian billionaire Rybovlev. The former president is expected to testify before the investigative committee in the coming days.

A 34-year-old man was arrested in Larnaca for allegedly hitting a woman and forcing her into his vehicle. Police, acting on a tip, found both the suspect and the woman at his residence. When officers arrived, the man attacked them and was subsequently arrested. He faces serious charges including kidnapping and assaulting an officer.

This morning, there was a fatal motorcycle accident in Cyprus, resulting in the death of 23-year-old Angelos Adamou. He lost his life when his motorcycle violently collided with a sidewalk and a bus stop. Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the incident, with indications that excessive speed may have been a key factor. This is the fourth fatal accident in recent hours.

The recycling situation in Cyprus is challenging, with Green Dot facing issues in managing recyclable materials. The Department of Environment urges Green Dot to comply with European directives and to promptly address problems in collection and disposal. Barracuda has accused Green Dot of violations and announced the suspension of home paper collection due to payment delays. Despite the tensions, Green Dot plans to develop new recycling infrastructures.

The police are extending their investigations into official documents found at the home of a prison guard who is in custody. The documents include letters and notes related to various cases. Testimonies from former prison directors are expected to clarify the circumstances that led to the documents being kept outside of the prison. The guard faces charges related to abuse of power and violation of official secrecy.

The event hall received exemptions from building regulations despite the presence of illegal constructions. The Minister of Interior approved the cancellation of terms that required the demolition of these constructions. The Audit Office highlights non-compliance with regulations and an increase in the building coefficient. The hall can now also be used as a film studio.

The Municipality of Limassol is moving forward with three significant projects aimed at improving public spaces and enhancing sustainable mobility. These include the redevelopment of Independence Street, the creation of two Green Routes totaling 20 km, and the construction of 25 new parks. The goal is to improve the urban environment and create friendly spaces for citizens. These projects reflect the Municipality’s vision for a more accessible and greener city.

The Ministry of Education is proposing changes to the laws regarding the education of children with disabilities and special needs, aiming for a transition to inclusive schools. The new processes include parental consent, evaluations, and re-evaluations. The topic is expected to be opened for discussion in June, with stakeholders required to submit their opinions by April 30. The re-naming of legislation and the approach to children's rights are central issues in the new proposal.

The Cypriot company KEAN is relocating its factory to a new site in Ypsonas for modernization purposes. This transition is expected to be completed in approximately two years without halting production. All KEAN products will remain available throughout the transition. The company is committed to maintaining local production and employment.

A new government bill raises concerns about press freedom, as it allows for abusive surveillance of journalists. The draft stipulates that journalists' sources will not be protected, and journalistic confidentiality can be violated. Journalists fear they will be compelled to disclose their sources, leading to negative consequences for freedom of information. Reactions from the journalistic community have already begun.