5 Minute News

Former Congressman George Santos was sentenced to seven years and three months in prison for falsifying his biography and financial fraud. Judges described his actions as driven by greed and a lack of remorse. He was elected in 2022, but his lies about his identity quickly became public. Ultimately, he was expelled from Congress in December 2023.

The violent video game 'No Mercy' has sparked significant backlash as it allows players to assume the role of a man who abuses and murders women. It was removed from the Steam platform after strong criticism. Its creators claim that the outrage stems from misunderstandings and false information. The game did not have an age rating, raising concerns about its appropriateness.

A 60-year-old man was bitten by a snake while cleaning an area in his village in Cyprus. He was quickly taken to a hospital in Limassol after the incident. His health condition is stable and not life-threatening. The incident was reported by Yiannis Angelis from the Cyprus Herpetological Center on social media.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Crimea belongs to Ukraine, responding indirectly to Donald Trump. This comment came after Trump said that Crimea will remain with Russia. Zelensky emphasized that only the Ukrainian people have the right to decide on their territory. Crimea has been illegally annexed by Russia since 2014, and Ukraine continues to reject any recognition of this claim.

The body of Pope Francis was on public display in St. Peter's Basilica for three days, with many people paying their respects. The funeral will be held in St. Peter's Square, attended by thousands of believers and state leaders. The Pope's body is preserved using modern embalmment techniques, which slow down decomposition without removing internal organs. This method reflects the Catholic Church's preference for more humane and respectful post-mortem processes.

The decision by the Department of Road Transport to limit grants for the Promotion of Electric Mobility in Cyprus has sparked serious reactions from electric vehicle importers. The Importers Association claims this move negatively impacts consumers who lose the chance to buy vehicles at a reduced price and puts importers in a difficult position. Despite the Transport Department's intentions to comply with European regulations, protests continue over the lack of transparency and dialogue. The Importers Association warns that Cyprus risks failing its green transition targets.

Artificial Intelligence predicts that Cardinal Pietro Parolin is the frontrunner to succeed Pope Francis. With over 10 years of experience in the Vatican, he is seen as a candidate acceptable to both reformists and traditionalists. However, concerns arise due to his involvement in a Vatican financial scandal. Major competitors against him include Tagle, Abong, and Tzupi.

Over 50 kilograms of cannabis were discovered in the vehicle of 41-year-old Antonis Nikolaou during a YKAN operation. Nikolaou, who is wanted by the police, managed to escape on foot after a chase that involved collisions with police vehicles. Additionally, cannabis was found and seized from his residence. One police officer sustained minor injuries during the chase and was taken to the hospital.

41-year-old Antonis Nikolaou remains at large following a police operation by the YKAN in Limassol, during which his vehicle was seized. The vehicle was identified as stolen and had false license plates. YKAN estimates it contains a large quantity of drugs. Authorities believe it is only a matter of time before Nikolaou is found.

APOEL has delivered a check of 700,000 euros to the Tax Department to settle part of its new debts, which amount to 1.8 million euros. The administration plans to pay part of the remaining debts in the next 2-3 months. An application for reinstatement in the repayment plan has been submitted, but the Minister of Finance does not seem to agree. The goal is to ensure that the teams meet UEFA's criteria.

TUI conducted research on the best destinations in Europe for baby boomers, highlighting Larnaca as the top choice. The research points out the increasing trend of travelers aged 65 and over to travel outside of peak tourist seasons. Larnaca is noted for its cultural heritage and nature activities, such as trips to the Troodos mountains. The research underscores a demographic shift in tourism across Europe.

The Edek party will elect a new president on June 1st, with names of candidates already circulating. Solomonaidis Morfakis and Marios Channidis are seen as strong contenders, while Maria Vassiliadou is also a potential choice. Marino Sizopoulos' decision to step down as president raises hopes for renewal within the party.

The police are searching for 41-year-old Antonis Nikolaou from Limassol, who is allegedly involved in a drug-related case. Nikolaou managed to escape during a UCA operation on April 24, 2025. His vehicle is under guard and will be examined for possible drugs. The police are urging anyone with information to come forward.

China is considering postponing the extra 125% tariff on American products, indicating a de-escalation in the trade war with the United States. The exemptions include categories such as ethane and medical equipment. This move seems to be a response to similar concessions from the U.S. Both countries are trying to maintain their trade relations while managing disruptions in the global supply chain.

The 27-year-old inmate A.A. is in isolation with serious facial and abdominal injuries following a premeditated attack by five other inmates at the Central Prisons. His lawyer, Katia Pieroudi, stated that the attackers had personal disputes with her client. The inmate required medical attention but was fortunate to escape worse injuries. The incident has reignited interest in his previous criminal activities.

Pediatricians in Cyprus are concerned about the decline in vaccination coverage among children, leading to the resurgence of dangerous diseases like measles. Parents are showing increasing hesitation towards vaccinations, a trend observed globally. The pandemic negatively impacted the vaccination process, leaving many children unvaccinated. Despite high vaccination levels, experts warn of epidemic risks if measures are not taken.

Archbishop George is persisting in his efforts to transfer the relic of Saint Paul to Cyprus, despite the recent passing of Pope Francis. This transfer had been planned but has been postponed out of respect for the Vatican's mourning. The relationship between the Archbishop and Paphos Metropolitan Tychikos has been strained due to Tychikos' refusal to accept the relic. The Archbishop aims to maintain good relations with the Holy See regarding the Cyprus issue.

The salaries of top executives at the Bank of Cyprus and the Greek Bank are notable, with the CEO earning over 1.7 million euros. During the May general assembly, shareholders will vote on the annual compensation for board members. There are proposals to increase variable pay in alignment with the bank's strategic goals. Important decisions will be made regarding the compensation of board committees and their members.

Cyprus will install desalination units in Limassol and Paphos to meet water supply needs. These units, with a total capacity of 15,000 cubic meters per day, have been donated by the United Arab Emirates. The process is being expedited following the failure of the unit in Kouklia, ensuring water supply in the area. Plans also include mobile desalination units to enhance water supply.

Thanasis Nikolaou was a soldier in Limassol in 2005, and his life was filled with bullying and harassment. A recent report indicates widespread drug use within his unit, with senior officers being aware of the situation but not taking action. His death, initially ruled a suicide, has been proven to result from a criminal act. Two decades later, the case remains unresolved, and Thanasis's family continues to seek justice.

The collaboration between the EU and Turkey in defense restructuring depends on specific conditions that Turkey must adhere to, according to Manfred Weber. In his letter, he emphasizes that the cooperation should be based on four specific prerequisites. Additionally, he highlights the importance of Cyprus and the reunification of the island for the overall EU-Turkey relationship. Upholding the values and principles of the EU is crucial.