5 Minute News

Pope Francis lived a simple life, renouncing salaries and benefits, while the wealth of the Vatican amounts to 15 billion euros. Despite managing substantial assets, the Vatican recorded a significant budget deficit. The Pope encourages cardinals to live modestly to support the church's economy. The Vatican's real estate is its main asset, with over 5,500 properties worldwide.

Travel+Leisure magazine has included three new hotels from Greece in its list of the 100 best hotels in the world for 2025. These hotels, including the Ace Hotel & Swim Club in Glyfada and Gundari in Folegandros, combine modern aesthetics with Greek tradition. Journalists from the magazine traveled to 44 countries to evaluate new and renovated accommodations, showcasing that luxury stays can be affordable. Greece, with these three hotels, continues to stand out in the tourism sector.

Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88, leaving a significant legacy behind. Attention now turns to the election of the new Pope, with data revealing the odds of candidates and bets. Italian Pietro Parolin and Filipino Luis Antonio Tagle are considered front-runners. Betting companies have also opened markets regarding the continent of origin for the new Pontiff.

The autopsy of Andreas Michailidis, who was found dead after an incident with a 57-year-old neighbor, showed no injuries that would explain his death. The forensic experts believe that the cause of death may be pathological. Results from laboratory tests are pending, and the police may release the suspect. The case is under investigation by the Morphou CID.

The new political party Democratic Change (DIMAL) is being established under the leadership of Christos Kliridis. Its goal is to express the real needs of citizens and promote a fair solution to the Cyprus issue. DIMAL pledges transparency, social justice, and sustainable development, while condemning poverty, youth unemployment, and corruption. Emphasis is placed on respect for human rights and the creation of a rule of law.

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a three-day ceasefire at the front in Ukraine to coincide with the 80th anniversary of Victory Day. The ceasefire will take effect from midnight May 7 until midnight May 10, with Russia urging Ukraine to also declare a ceasefire. The Kremlin warned that any violation of the ceasefire by Ukraine would lead to consequences. Putin also stated he is ready for unconditional peace talks.

A dangerous Pit Bull dog that bit a 64-year-old woman remains missing more than a month after the attack. Authorities have attempted to locate it but have been unsuccessful. The case is set to be forwarded to the Legal Service for decisions on potential criminal charges. The 64-year-old sustained serious injuries and required surgery.

A widespread power outage has affected Spain, with impacts also reported in Portugal and Andorra. There are also reports of issues in parts of France. Red Eléctrica is working on restoring electricity and investigating the causes of the failure. Telephone lines remain out of service across Spain.

The Environmental Authority has given a conditional positive opinion for the €98.3 million development in Peristerona, which includes an organized complex for the elderly. The project will combine health, educational, and residential uses, providing modern infrastructure in the area. There are significant conditions that need to be met, mainly concerning ecological balance and water supply. Additionally, compensatory measures have been agreed upon for the community.

AKEL MP Christos Christofides revealed that he was the one who reported the scandal regarding the event hall and requested an investigation by the Audit Office. The Audit Office's report confirmed the government's scandal involving President Christodoulides. Christofides emphasized the seriousness of this political entanglement and stated that he will present evidence to the Parliamentary Control Committee. He is also considering possible actions against corruption.

The investigation into the book 'State Mafia' has reached its final stage, with former President Nikos Anastasiades testifying at the Independent Anti-Corruption Authority. His testimonies are considered crucial for the investigation. Drousiotis claimed that Russian oligarch Rybolev was being served by Anastasiades, who countered the allegations with public statements and documents. Anastasiades is expected to continue his testimonies in the coming days.

In a few days, the 135 cardinals will elect the new Pope, shaping the future of the Catholic Church. The uncertainty is high, as most voters have never participated in a conclave before. There are over 20 potential candidates, but rumors suggest that favorites do not always win. The geographical and ideological diversity among the cardinals could lead to unpredictable outcomes.

A traffic collision occurred on the Limassol – Nicosia highway between a concrete mixer and a vehicle. The incident took place shortly before 7:30 and caused traffic congestion. Drivers are advised to be cautious. There are no reports of injuries, only material damage.

The police are continuing their investigations into the death of a 17-year-old in Paphos, who reportedly used a dangerous substance during a gathering with friends. Four peers, two Greek Cypriots and two foreigners, were present and alerted the authorities when they noticed their friend was in serious trouble. Despite rescue efforts, the young man arrived at the hospital unresponsive and was confirmed dead. The Paphos community is shocked by the incident.

The IMF recommends that the ECB reduce the deposit rate to 2% this summer, as inflation in the Eurozone is expected to reach the 2% target by 2025. This forecast is supported by decreasing energy prices and reduced demand due to the US trade war. However, risks to growth in Europe remain negative due to uncertainty in trade policies. It is essential for European countries to implement balanced economic policies to ensure stability.

Former Strovolos mayor Andreas Papacharalambous is preparing for the presentation of his book, which may influence his political decisions. The ELAM event marking the 70th anniversary of the EOKA struggle draws significant attendees, expanding the discussion surrounding political competition in the conservative right. Relationships and collaborations among political figures become important in light of upcoming elections. Pindarou faces pressure and must manage the arising challenges.

The government has increased hiring scales for the EOA, which will cost citizens significantly. The president of the Nicosia EOA, Konstantinos Georgkatzis, emphasized that organizations should manage public money wisely but lack the self-governance they need. Although some increases in water tariffs are expected, citizens can remain calm regarding management, as the situation is healthy. The EOAs have requested the development of a modern licensing system to facilitate procedures.

Banks are introducing new criteria for loan pricing, linking financing to environmental standards. Customers will encounter increased bureaucracy as emissions will affect the lending process. Banks will assess customers' performances based on ESG criteria to offer better loan terms. Therefore, it is essential for customers to be aware of the new requirements and procedures.

The announcement by Marinos Sizopoulos of his resignation from the presidency of EDEK has sparked internal movements within the party. There are scenarios regarding the appointment of a transitional president ahead of the parliamentary elections. The candidacies of Morfakis Solomonidis and Mario Channidis for the presidency seem certain. Concerns exist about whether consensus will be achieved and if elections can be avoided.

Smart traffic lights are expected to operate by the summer of 2027, aiming to reduce waiting times and emissions. Significant reductions in delays and fuel consumption are anticipated, improving traffic flow and quality of life. Despite a delay in the project's start, the situation is expected to be clarified by June. The system will adjust green light duration based on traffic and collect real-time data.

The process of approving police requests by District Judges faced serious errors, leading to the cancellation of four warrants by the Supreme Court. Judges failed to remove the word 'not', resulting in the annulment of the warrants and impacting the investigative work. Assistant Attorney General, Savvas Angelidis, intervened, urging the police to take measures to prevent similar mistakes. However, this issue did not gain widespread media attention.