Joe Biden has been diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer, according to his office's announcement. The disease appears to be hormone-sensitive and can be treated effectively. Doctors discovered a small nodule on his prostate, leading to further evaluation. Biden and his family are consulting with his medical team for the best treatment approach.
On Sunday evening, an incident occurred outside the supporters' club of Omonia in Lakatamia, where fans clashed resulting in injuries. An ambulance and police were dispatched to the scene to manage the situation. The clash took place after the derby match between Omonia and APOEL in the final round of the league. More details about the incident will be provided soon.
The Israeli army has launched a new ground operation in Gaza aimed at Hamas while negotiations for a ceasefire are ongoing. Palestinian authorities report serious humanitarian consequences, with all public hospitals in northern Gaza now closed. In just one week, 464 Palestinians have died, bringing the total number of casualties since the beginning of the conflict to over 53,000. The Israeli Prime Minister stated that a ceasefire agreement depends on the disarmament of Hamas.
Intense debates erupted on platform X between Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis and former Health Minister George Pamboridis. The discussion centered on the return of Cypriot medical students from abroad and the related bills promoted by the government. The two exchanged sharp criticisms and allegations, referencing political achievements and institutional changes. This exchange highlights differing views on public policy and the role of regulatory frameworks.
MP Christos Christofides comments on President Nicos Christodoulides' recent statements regarding green taxes and the water situation. He emphasizes that the government had to back down from its proposals due to public opposition. He also notes that the government delayed necessary actions for Paphos, which is facing water issues. Lastly, he accuses Christodoulides of engaging in petty politics and pre-election aspirations.
The inauguration ceremony of Pope Leo XIV took place in the Vatican, attended by over 250,000 faithful. The event featured significant symbols, including the reading of Gospel excerpts in Greek, promoting unity among Christian Churches. The new Pope expressed feelings of fear and awe, emphasizing God's love. Attendees included religious leaders and high-ranking officials from around the world.
The water quality at Lady’s Mile is clean and safe for swimming, according to official analysis results. The warning from the British Bases regarding unsafe levels of enterococci was dismissed, as it was based on unapproved data. The Environment Department of the Republic of Cyprus is monitoring the situation and ensuring public health. Public health issues should be addressed with scientific documentation to avoid unnecessary concern.
The Archbishop of Cyprus announced that the Bishop of Paphos will be called to respond to allegations regarding his behavior before the Holy Synod. The complaints come from various sources and will be examined to maintain the Church's dignity. Both sides' positions will be heard before any measures are taken. The Archbishop emphasized that no condemnation will occur without hearing the Bishop's views.
The Cyprus Land Development Corporation will begin constructing apartments in Limassol this June. The apartments will be offered at rents 25-30% lower than current rates. Approximately 600 apartments are expected in two areas, with construction costs estimated at 100 million euros. This project marks the first initiative for affordable housing in Cyprus, in collaboration with the Limassol Municipality.
Turkey plans to use the prosecutions of usurpers of Greek-Cypriot properties as an argument to hinder progress in the Cyprus negotiations. These disputes are causing significant economic issues in the occupied areas, which Ankara aims to exploit. The United Nations has emphasized that a government cannot halt judicial processes, a stance expected to be reiterated by the UN envoy. Meanwhile, Turkey is trying to bring the issue of Varosha back into discussion to exert pressure on the Cypriot government.
Manolis Mitsias announced his decision to retire from singing after his big tour this Summer. He has a rich and notable career spanning 60 years, with collaborations with major Greek music creators. Throughout his life, he has performed many significant songs that have endured in history. Mitsias expresses satisfaction with his journey and shares memories of his childhood and the difficult circumstances he faced.
The Cypriot Traffic Department has developed a plan to reduce road accidents by 2030. The main goal is to decrease fatalities and serious injuries through radical actions, including the use of technology and strict enforcement. Since 1960, there have been 6020 deaths recorded on Cypriot roads. The plan also involves collaborating with various partners to promote road safety.
The European Commission, led by its President, is appointing a Special Envoy for the Cyprus issue, reaffirming the EU's commitment to play an active role in resolving the conflict. This action highlights Cyprus's significance in the broader European political landscape and the EU's support for the resumption of negotiations. Strategic planning and collaboration with international organizations like the United Nations are anticipated to achieve a sustainable solution. This process emphasizes Cyprus's consistent diplomatic efforts within the EU.
After several interest rate reductions by the ECB, borrowers in Cyprus are showing increased interest in new loans. In the first quarter of 2025, total new lending reached €1.24 billion, with significant growth mainly in business and housing loans. The Bank of Cyprus and the Hellenic Bank hold the largest market shares. With a positive outlook, 2025 is expected to be a good year for new lending.
Consumers have fallen victim to misleading practices by supermarkets, which advertised deals that did not provide real benefits. Inspections by the Consumer Protection Service revealed that the prices displayed were inaccurate and that many offers did not reflect true price reductions. Practices such as misleading discounts and false labeling have led to fines for various businesses. These practices create confusion among consumers and violate consumer protection laws.
Nicosia was aware of the appointment of Johannes Hahn as the EU's special envoy for Cyprus. The meeting of leaders in Valencia connects the Cyprus issue with EU-Turkish relations. The delay in the announcement was due to internal EU procedures. The synchronized announcement with the appointment of María Ángela Olguín Cuéllar suggests strategic maneuvers in this area.