Charalampos Pantatzis recounts the traumatic experience of the attack he suffered from APOEL supporters at the Omonia Fan Club. He emphasizes that it was a clear attempt at murder and expresses concern about the government and anti-terror laws. Despite the situation, he states that he is alright and that the community remained united. He feels that threats and violence are consistent in their society.
Pope Leo XIII accepted an invitation from Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to visit Nicaea in Bithynia in 2025 to celebrate the 1,700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council. This visit will coincide with the memory of the Apostle Andrew. During their meeting, they exchanged views on matters of mutual interest, and the Cypriot Archbishops presented the Pope with a silver tray. The Pope emphasized the importance of restoring unity among Christians.
Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin communicated to schedule negotiations for ending the war in Ukraine. Putin stated that Russia is willing to collaborate on a peace memorandum. The two sides have outlined three key areas for discussions, including settlement principles and a timeline. International analysts expect a summit meeting to deepen the discussions.
Donald Trump has contacted Vladimir Putin to seek a ceasefire in Ukraine, but the discussion has taken place through encrypted lines and translators. Trump seems disappointed with the developments, as negotiations are yielding no results. Putin maintains a firm stance while the U.S. strives for a peaceful resolution. Analysts note that Putin may be seeking a quick summit but with a strategy to sustain ongoing pressure.
The renowned actor Nikos Galanos has passed away, leaving behind a significant legacy in theater and cinema. His career was distinguished and influential, marked by many unforgettable performances. The news of his death has shaken the artistic community and his fans. Memories of his unique shows will be cherished in his honor.
The bust of Jim Morrison was found by the Paris judicial police, 37 years after it was stolen from his grave at the Père Lachaise cemetery. The bust was placed to commemorate the 10th anniversary of his death. The discovery is linked to an investigation into a fraud case, and details surrounding its fate remain unclear. The legendary rocker was an iconic figure in music, and the theft of the bust had shocked his fans.
The Ecologists have called on the Chief of Police and the Minister of Transport not to allow the reopening of Makarios Avenue to all vehicles. They express disappointment with the decision of the Nicosia Municipal Council, considering it a setback in the pursuit of a sustainable and human city. They warn that the decision jeopardizes public health and funding for projects from European funds. They have submitted a request to the Parliamentary Committee to examine the legality and implications of this decision.
The Green Movement criticizes OKIY for poor conditions at the Oncology Department of the Nicosia General Hospital, where waste and dead animals were found. They assert that the real responsibility lies with the political leadership of the Ministry of Health and OKIY, who have neglected to address these issues. Additionally, a health and safety report highlights significant deficiencies in infrastructure and hygiene. The movement calls for immediate interventions and investments in public health sectors.
The convening of the Holy Synod regarding Metropolitan Tychikos was not sudden, as there were prior warnings from Archbishop Georgios. Concerns were expressed about Tychikos' behavior and his relationships with other figures. The Archbishop mentioned that if the situation continues, he may propose changes regarding the election of the Locum Tenens. He emphasized that the collaboration with Tychikos has become unclear.
Odysseas Michaeledes announces the establishment of the new Movement 'Alma', accompanied by eight associates. Among the team are well-known figures from Cypriot society, such as Charidimos Tsoukas and Gioula Pitsiali. The announcement is taking place at the movement's premises in Nicosia.
The Electricity Authority of Cyprus is starting the installation of smart meters in the Larnaca area and advises citizens to stay at home during the process to prevent damage. The president of the Electricians' Contractors warns about potential hazards during the replacement of old meters, such as damage to electrical appliances and fires. It is recommended to unplug electrical devices while the work is being carried out. Despite these precautions, he states that there is no full guarantee for preventing issues.
Odysseas Michailidis announced the establishment of the political movement 'Alma'. The presentation of the founding will take place on Monday at the movement's headquarters. The slogan is 'Citizens for Cyprus!' and the logo features blue and gold colors, depicting the sea and birds.
The president of the Scientific Personnel Union of the Electricity Authority of Cyprus warned of a serious electricity supply issue for the summer of 2025. There are significant delays in infrastructure projects, leading to a possible gap between electricity production and demand. Technocrats are concerned about increasing needs, especially due to desalination units. There are also worries about the financial situation of the Electricity Authority and the implications of withholding tariff increases.
In Lakatamia, around 50 hooded individuals attacked a property belonging to Omonia supporters, causing extensive damage. Three patrons were injured and taken to the hospital, but their condition is not concerning. The police were informed about the incident that occurred in the evening. This aggressive confrontation has raised concerns in the local community.
The renovation of the Ayia Giannou area in Larnaca is facing delays due to bureaucratic issues. The tender for the project, originally scheduled for February, is postponed with requested changes to the documents. The Larnaca Municipality acknowledges the situation and will take necessary actions to initiate the tender by June. The project is expected to cost over €7 million and includes various improvements in the area.
The ECB is expected to lower the key interest rate to 2% in June, providing significant relief to borrowers. The euribor interbank rates will be affected, benefiting those with variable interest loans. This reduction could stimulate the loan market and help banks recover revenues. While there are borrowers with fixed rates who won't be affected, the overall trend favors renewed economic activity.
The Larnaca Chamber of Commerce has proposed the development of a new marina in Larnaca with an estimated cost of €90 million. The plan suggests keeping the existing marina under state management and constructing a new, more luxurious marina by a private investor. The proposal includes various infrastructure for supporting maritime activities as well as public spaces for residents. The aim is to preserve the city's charm without transforming it into an overly luxurious destination.
The return of Maria Angela Olguín and the upcoming visit of Johannes Hahn to Cyprus are expected to bring new dynamics to the ongoing talks for resolving the Cyprus issue. President Christodoulides emphasized the importance of consultations and the small progress that has been made so far. There are intentions for meetings that will bring leaders closer together, while the wait for political decisions continues. There is optimism about the potential for substantive progress by July.
Internal tensions within EDEK remain high with challenges to candidate nominations. Marios Channides and Morphakis Solomonidis are vying for the deputy presidency, but both candidacies face scrutiny. Objections are being prepared against both nominations. Former MP George Barnaba accuses the leadership of Sizopoulos of putting the party at risk of failing to secure parliamentary representation.
The Association of Renewable Energy Companies opposes a proposed law for taxing excess profits in the renewable energy sector. They argue that this targeted taxation could create an unstable business environment and discourage investments in the sector. They call on the government to implement a stable strategy that supports clean energy production. They emphasize that increasing taxes will undermine market confidence and burden consumers.