5 Minute News

Pope Leo XIV publicly criticized the policies of JD Vance, particularly regarding the ranking of love. Vance stated that family should come first, but Cardinal Prevost responded by asserting that Christ does not ask us to categorize our love. This discussion sparked strong reactions and highlighted Prevost's divergence from the Trump administration's positions.

The election of the new Pope, Robert Francis Prevost, who chose the name Leo XIV, highlights the tradition of name changes among Popes, rooted in historical and theological reasons. This practice began with Saint Peter and became established in the 6th century, symbolizing the new path the Pope wishes to pursue. There are also 'forbidden' names, such as Peter, considered sacred, as well as others related to negative historical examples. The choice of a name is significant and reflects the Pope's intentions, with names like Leo and Innocent associated with reformist ideals.

Pope Leo XIV greeted the world with a message of peace during his first appearance from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica. He referenced the blessing given by Pope Francis to Rome and emphasized that evil will not prevail. He called for the Catholic Church to move forward, promoting peace and supporting those who suffer. He thanked the cardinals who elected him as the successor of Peter.

The Republic of Cyprus has signed a contract to acquire 12 Sherpa armored vehicles from the French company Arquus at the DEFEA 2025 exhibition. The vehicles will be used as platforms for firing Akeron anti-tank missiles, enhancing Cyprus's military capabilities. The interest in acquiring the Sherpas became known in June 2024, following a successful demonstration in Cyprus in 2022. This purchase is part of broader efforts to modernize the defense capabilities of the country.

A 47-year-old man was arrested in Cyprus following witness testimony linking him to a fire and explosions of firecrackers in a storage facility. The arrest followed thorough investigations and inquiries by the authorities. He is charged with possession and storage of explosives without a license. Ongoing investigations aim to fully clarify the circumstances of the case.

The third voting for the election of the new Pope is underway in the Vatican, with cardinals meeting in secrecy. Following an unsuccessful first vote, everyone is awaiting the next one. The process concerns the election of the 267th Pontiff, and the cardinals are adhering to strict voting rules. Many faithful have gathered at St. Peter's Basilica, hoping for a new Pope.

Donald Trump announced a new trade agreement between the US and the UK aimed at boosting exports and streamlining customs processes. The deal includes billions in exports of agricultural products and steel. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the day historic, praising the US negotiating team. A 10% tariff remains in place, generating significant revenue for the United States.

The parliamentary elections in Cyprus are set to take place on May 24, 2026, following a decision by the leaders of the parliamentary parties. The current Parliament will dissolve on April 20, 2026, due to the end of its term. A series of legislations will be voted on May 22, addressing pending issues regarding seat allocation and voting at 17. The final stance of the parties on these matters will be determined next Thursday.

The Parliament has decided to extend the facilitation period for new mothers from 9 to 12 months. This regulation allows working mothers to adjust their schedules for breastfeeding or childcare. Most parties reacted positively, although some employers had reservations. MP Savia Orfanidou highlighted the importance of this change in supporting mothers.

The Ministry of Immigration and Asylum is tightening the examination process for asylum applications from Syrians. Several applications have already been rejected, and a review of the protection status for 13,000 Syrians is planned. Most applicants are Sunni Muslim men who claim to have come for work rather than fear of persecution. There has been a significant decrease in the number of new asylum applications from Syrians, with only 1,030 submitted in 2025.

The government will provide a monthly subsidy of €200 for children who are 4 years old up to 4 years and 5 months, attending private kindergartens. For children in community kindergartens, the subsidy is €130. The subsidy covers up to 80% of tuition fees, and the programs aim to enhance access to quality educational services. Supporting families is a government priority.

The government supports the initiative for the re-establishment of the Cooperative, as stated by Minister George Papakanstasiou. He highlighted the need to raise 5 million euros to start the new cooperative entity, emphasizing that proper management and the right people can make the project viable. Despite challenges, the new bank can offer competitive products and lower profit margins. The regulation of the institution is under the jurisdiction of the Central Bank of Cyprus.

The criminal charges against a pediatrician accused of causing the death of an 8-month-old infant have been suspended after nearly ten years. The mother of the infant expresses her disappointment and anger at this decision, stating that it feels like a second death for her child. The case has experienced multiple delays and the mother is demanding justice. She expresses that the silence and inability to achieve justice is unacceptable.

The trial of Giannis Giannakis involved the examination of forged documents related to his employment. An expert testified that the leaving certificate shows alterations and contains elements written by typewriter and hand. Giannakis admits that the documents are forged but does not accept responsibility for their creation. The proceedings continue with questions from the prosecution and the defense.

Stefanos Kasselakis was sentenced to 30 months in prison, suspended, and fined €50,000 for violating the asset declaration law. The prosecutor had suggested acquittal, arguing that he was unaware of the prohibition. The case is connected to the existence of a company in the USA owned by Kasselakis during his time as leader of SYRIZA. The conviction resulted from the court's rejection of the prosecutor's proposal.

The Horizon Towers development in the former oil refinery area of Larnaca plans to construct six high-standard residential towers. It will include over 450 apartments as well as spaces for shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities. The project aims to upgrade the area and provide modern amenities for residents. The construction is expected to take approximately 18 months.

Schools in various regions of Cyprus received disturbing emails that caused unrest. The police indicated that these messages do not pose a threat, which is why no safety protocols were activated. Some schools took precautionary measures by having students leave classrooms, but police presence was not needed. The situation is being monitored without further action required.

The Attorney General states that there is no room for criminal charges following the hunters' protest. He hints at the Police's tolerance during the events that unfolded. Additionally, he mentions that disciplinary proceedings do not fall under his authority. The developments regarding the protest highlight the need to investigate the responsibilities of the authorities.

The circumstances surrounding the death of 43-year-old plumber Georgios Konstantinou are being investigated by the Police and other agencies after he died on a construction site in Germasogeia. He was found in an elevator shaft, raising questions about the safety measures of the building. Preliminary examinations indicated that holes that should have been covered were left open. The investigation continues to uncover the exact causes of his death and whether other workers were present at the scene.

A 34-year-old worker from Syria lost his life in a workplace accident in Paphos. The incident occurred during the lifting of wood when the machine's belt broke, causing the wood to fall on him. The police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident.

The father of Anna Sialarou expresses the indescribable pain of losing his daughter, who passed away at the age of 27. He highlights her kindness and the love she spread, as well as her contributions to society and those around her. Her funeral drew a large crowd, showcasing her impact on many lives. Despite her struggles, Anna faced life with a smile and optimism.

High energy prices are negatively impacting job positions in Europe, especially in energy-intensive sectors such as cement and chemicals. A 10% increase in electricity prices could result in a 2% reduction in employment. The negative effects extend beyond direct sectors, affecting jobs in related areas as well. Suggestions include cheaper and cleaner energy to tackle the situation.

Five high schools in Larnaca do not have air conditioning installed despite previous commitments. This raises concerns as students will take exams under poor conditions. Parents are looking for air-conditioned venues for the exams, while the installation process for the other schools is delayed. The Larnaca MP is also seeking information on the Ministry of Education's intentions.

The Cypriot Sports Organization (KOA) is ready to provide benefits to athletes with disabilities participating in Olympic sports. These benefits are set to take effect from 2025, pending confirmation from the Ministry of Finance. The proposed regulations will be incorporated into the legislation following recent discussions. The overall sentiment is positive, and the budget will be adjusted based on future needs.

A legislative proposal in Cyprus aims to ensure transparency in decisions made by the executive authority but faces objections from the Legal Service of the Republic. Concerns revolve around the separation of powers and the publication process of decisions. Despite the reservations, the proposal was welcomed by many during the session of the parliamentary committee on Institutions. The committee's chairman emphasized the need for implementing e-governance to secure transparency.

The parliamentary Legal Committee session focused on the management of the highway closure by hunters. There were tensions among MPs and the Minister of Justice, with criticism directed at President Nikos Christodoulides for his intervention in the matter. AKEL MP Aristos Damianou questioned the Minister's actions, stating that the President bypassed the ministry's responsibilities. While the discussion was heated, it remained within reasonable limits.

The proposed legal measures for granting property titles to trapped homebuyers are anticipated, but only about 4,000 of them may benefit. Despite existing issues in the sector, the need for a fair resolution is emphasized. The new bill aims to protect the rights of all parties involved. Legislators are working to have the proposal approved before the summer recess.

There are significant losses of recycled water in Cyprus, with over 4.7 million cubic meters ending up in the sea. Wastewater treatment plants struggle with high salinity, and a large percentage of the water is not utilized for irrigation. In 2023, only 48% of the produced recycled water was used, leading to substantial economic costs. Despite investments, water management remains challenging.