5 Minute News

4 months ago

Dmitry Medvedev, the former head of Russia, stated that Ukraine has a last chance to maintain some form of statehood by engaging in peace talks. If Ukraine refuses peace, it will face unconditional surrender. Russia is concerned that the current Ukrainian leadership lacks the legal authority to sign peace agreements, especially due to the lack of elections in the country. Medvedev noted that Moscow is willing to negotiate peacefully but wants current circumstances to be taken into account.

The Pangeos is an ultra-luxury yacht designed by Italian architects that aims to accommodate 60,000 passengers. With a turtle-like shape, it measures 550 meters in length, making it potentially the largest ship ever built. It is expected to operate using sustainable energy sources, such as solar panels and electric motors. However, its construction requires a massive investment and time, with an estimated cost of $8 billion.

The Public Gas Infrastructure Company (ETYFA) signed a contract with T.EN PMS Services Ltd for project management services at the Vasilikos terminal. The project aims to introduce natural gas to Cyprus and reduce the dependency on imported oil. It is referred to as 'CyprusGas2EU' and is recognized as a Project of Common Interest. This initiative is expected to support the transition to cleaner energy sources.

The Cyprus Sports Organization decided not to proceed with the upgrade of Makario Stadium due to high costs. They are considering keeping 3,000 seats for the refugee clubs that use the facility. The stadium requires serious safety and upgrade work to remain operational. The situation remains uncertain as the expiration date for the suitability certificate approaches.

On June 11, 2025, a public auction will take place for 75 old police vehicles from the Cyprus Police. The vehicles include various types and brands, such as Mitsubishi and BMW, primarily former patrol cars. Interested buyers will have the opportunity to inspect the vehicles before the auction, which will be held in Nicosia.

Two individuals have been placed under an eight-day detention due to serious incidents at the Omonia supporters' club. The suspects, aged 23 and 40, face charges including conspiracy and public disorder. The court accepted the police request for an extension of their detention due to ongoing investigative work. Authorities are continuing efforts to identify other individuals involved in the attacks.

A fatal traffic accident occurred in Nicosia on the morning of May 20, 2025, resulting in the death of a 55-year-old woman from Sri Lanka. The incident took place on Archbishop Makarios Avenue when her vehicle collided with a truck. She was transported to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead. The truck driver has been arrested, and the police are investigating the circumstances of the crash.

Odysseas Michailidis expressed his wish for Eirini Charalambidou to join the fight against corruption. He emphasized their good relations but noted that the decision about her political future is hers to make. He also mentioned his good relationship with Christos Kliridis, despite their differences on the Cyprus issue. Michailidis stated that the new movement welcomes all citizens who share the same vision.

46-year-old Kostas Soteriou was sentenced to 28 years in prison for the murder of 52-year-old Charalambos Konstantinidis in Ormideia. The court found him guilty of premeditated murder, taking into account aggravating factors such as excessive violence. Although the judges acknowledged his good character, the sentence remained severe. Soteriou will be eligible for parole in 27 years.

The government and banks have agreed to install new ATMs in 11 areas to better serve the public. These ATMs are expected to be operational by May. Additionally, there are over 400 cashback points in retail stores across Cyprus, allowing customers to withdraw cash. The cashback scheme permits cash withdrawals of up to 100 euros per transaction at various retailers.

A 32-year-old mother from Cyprus was arrested in Larissa for child abuse after her two children were found with cigarette burn marks. The case came to light during a hospital visit, where doctors detected injuries indicative of abuse. The mother claims she is not responsible for her children's injuries and is expected to provide further explanations to investigators. Independent inquiries are ongoing regarding her partner and other possible persons involved.

The Audit Office criticizes the Forestry Department for its procurement processes regarding firefighting aircraft, stating that costs significantly exceeded initial estimates. In the five cases reviewed, the awarded amounts reached €62.5 million, higher than the estimated €48.8 million. Delays in the tendering process have resulted in shortages of aerial resources during the critical summer period for fire fighting. The report also notes a decline in service quality due to these delays.

Reactions to opening Makarios Avenue to all vehicles are increasing, with groups like the Ecologists and the Transport Engineers Association expressing disagreement. The decisions made by the municipal council are seen by some as arbitrary and lacking scientific basis. It is believed that increased traffic will lead to problems on Makarios and adjacent streets. The Transport Engineers Association warns that these regulations might deter visitors from the area.

A serious road accident occurred on Tuesday morning in Nicosia when a truck collided with a saloon car. A woman was injured and taken to the hospital. The road in the Strakka area has been closed due to the accident. Drivers are urged to be cautious and to follow the police's instructions.

Odysseas Michailidis introduced his new political movement and roadmap for the upcoming elections yesterday. His aim is to create a radical center strengthened by political alliances. He stated that a double-digit percentage in the parliamentary elections is his goal before he attempts to run for president in 2028. His political strategy appears to have a long-term plan extending until 2033.

The police have frozen or confiscated vast assets related to organized crime, totaling around 10 million euros over the past year and a half. These assets include real estate, luxury vehicles, and cryptocurrencies. Many cases are linked to financial fraud and drug-related activities, with a notable increase in investments in cryptocurrencies leading to scams. The Ministry of Justice and law enforcement agencies continue their efforts against organized crime.

Fear of cancer is causing many citizens to avoid preventative screenings due to concerns about the results. Politicians and representatives are urging media to avoid the term 'malignant disease' and promote better awareness. There is a need for training journalists to convey information about cancer correctly and sensitively. Collaboration between organizations is essential to foster a positive approach towards cancer.

Lady's Mile beach is under quarantine due to elevated levels of enterococci detected by the British Bases. Government agencies, in collaboration with the Bases, have conducted sampling to assess the beach's condition. The Bases' announcement caused panic among bathers, leading to numerous cancellations at beachfront establishments. Final results are awaited to clarify the uncertainty surrounding the sea's condition.

At a state hospital, 60 nurses reported a doctor for inappropriate behavior and bullying. The investigation conducted by OKYpY has been completed and submitted to the Ministry of Health, which is considering the possibility of disciplinary measures. The doctor has expressed his intention to leave the public service, causing reactions among the nurses. The complaints include belittling behavior and pressure exerted on nurses during their work.

The Parliamentary Finance Committee will soon discuss the debts of football companies to the state, following a request from DISY lawmakers. The discussions will revolve around the potential reintegration of clubs into the debt repayment plan and updating the Parliament on the status of repayments. The compliance levels of the clubs are crucial for maintaining their UEFA eligibility. There is significant pressure for this issue to be discussed promptly, as the football companies aim to secure tax relief.

The situation at the Electricity Authority is complicated following the statements from the union president, which sparked reactions from the board and the unions. Disagreements over electricity supply adequacy and cost recovery may lead to protests from labor organizations. The Authority is considering a price increase to cover its costs while planning to secure a new loan from the European Investment Bank. Recent developments indicate escalating tensions and financial challenges for the Electricity Authority.