The Central Bank of the Netherlands advises citizens to keep cash at home for three days in case of emergencies. The recommended amount is 70 euros per adult and 30 euros per child. This recommendation comes amidst growing concerns about cyber attacks and geopolitical uncertainties. The Bank encourages merchants to ensure alternative payment methods in these situations.
President Christodoulides presented an action plan for the repatriation of Cypriots living abroad. The plan includes four key areas: tax incentives, a digital information portal, a talent-job matching platform, and support for family reintegration. The President emphasized the importance of return as an initiative that concerns the people of Cyprus. The initiative aims to develop Cyprus with the participation of Cypriots from abroad.
Benjamin Netanyahu held a press conference stating that the Gaza Strip will come under Israeli control, which he sees as a prerequisite for ending the war. He highlighted three main goals including the return of hostages and the removal of Hamas from power. Netanyahu assured that the ongoing operation 'Gideon's Chariots' will be completed without causing a humanitarian crisis. He also addressed pressures Israel faces from the international community and emphasized cooperation with the US.
Odysseas Michailidis, the former General Auditor, gave a statement to the police regarding his dismissal following a ruling by the Supreme Constitutional Court. In his complaint, he mentioned that a close associate of the President was aware of the decision before the final proceedings. However, he did not disclose the identity of this person during his police testimony. Michailidis maintains that he did nothing wrong.
In Parliament, tensions arose during a discussion about non-profit organizations, featuring MPs Alexandra Attalidou and Andreas Themistocleous. The two exchanged accusations related to the Annan Plan, with Themistocleous citing a sum of 67 million dollars allegedly given by Americans to support it. Attalidou countered that there has been no evidence to support the allegations. Despite the heated debate, the discussion resumed after a few minutes.
Google warns Gmail users about a new type of phishing scam that uses fake emails appearing to come from the company itself. Attackers exploit Google OAuth to gain access to personal data. Users are advised to verify the sender's address and avoid suspicious links. Google also recommends using passkeys for better security.
Unfortunately, the two children of the 32-year-old Cypriot mother in Larissa were victims of serious abuse, with cigarette burns and signs of hunger, as revealed by the forensic examination. The mother has been arrested, and a friend of hers, a taxi driver, has surrendered to the authorities accused of the abuse. He denies the charges, but the children reportedly named him as responsible for their abuse. The situation of the children and testimonies about their lives indicate a concerning image of abuse and neglect.
In the Legal Committee of the Parliament, real estate agents strongly reacted to a proposed law stating that only lawyers would draft property contracts. The session was disrupted due to shouting and heightened tensions. Real estate agents are concerned about the implications of this proposal for their profession and the functioning of the real estate market. The Bar Association argues that lawyers are essential for protecting buyers' interests.
The Hellenic Bank is being renamed to Eurobank following its merger with Eurobank Cyprus. The CEO mentioned that the procedures may take around two years. The acquisition of CNP Cyprus Insurance Holdings has also been completed. The aim is to enhance customer experience and support economic development.
The Constitutional Supreme Court reversed the decision of the Supreme Court regarding fines imposed on lawyers. It ruled that the actions of the Bar Council as a Supervisory Authority are distinct from those made as a professional body. This results in the annulment of previous decisions made by the Supreme Court on this matter. The issue is significant as it affects all members of the Cyprus Bar Association.
In the District Court of Limassol, charges were presented against a 52-year-old man and his 47-year-old partner in the murder case of 45-year-old Giannis Argyris. The 52-year-old is accused of killing him with 19 stab wounds and reportedly confided in his partner about the crime. The defendants face charges of premeditated murder and cocaine possession. The case is set to be heard in the Permanent Criminal Court of Limassol in 2025.
Odysseas Michailidis accuses President Christodoulides of hiding behind his ministers and failing to explain a supposed knowledge of the Supreme Constitutional Court's decision. He states that the government should address serious issues in the fields of Justice and Public Order that create anxiety in society. Today, he is set to testify to the police regarding his statements. The police have already contacted him for this testimony.
Analysis results from the General Chemical Laboratory show that the waters at Lady's Mile beach are clean and suitable for swimming. Despite concerns raised by the British Bases' analyses, the indicators are well below legal limits. However, the British Bases continue to recommend avoiding swimming in the area. New results from the Koures Municipality are eagerly awaited.
The Cyprus Association of Transport Engineers expresses concern over the Municipality of Nicosia's decision to lift traffic restrictions on Makarios Avenue. This decision may negatively impact the quality of life and sustainable mobility in the city. They are calling for the suspension of the decision and a technical assessment of its consequences. They also propose a meeting with the Mayor to discuss ways to enhance accessibility and foot traffic in the city center.
Former Auditor General Odysseas Michaelides claimed in a public broadcast that a close associate of President Christodoulides knew the unanimous decision of the Supreme Constitutional Court before it was announced. The Supreme Court responded by calling on Michaelides to submit any evidence he possesses. Justice Minister Marios Harciotis also urged Michaelides to provide any relevant information or testimony. These allegations are deemed serious and involve key state institutions.
The Cabinet approved a bill that increases penalties for using hoses to wash cars and sidewalks, aiming to protect water resources. The fine rises from 50 to 100 euros, and can reach 300 euros for repeat offenses. The maximum jail time doubles from three to six months, while the maximum fine can increase to 3,000 euros. The Director General of the Ministry of Agriculture expressed hope that the bill will be passed before the summer recess.
Archbishop Georgios aims to strengthen the management of the Holy Synod after a period of lax practices. The theologian Theodoros Kyriakou suggests that the current relationships of the Church with other religious communities are affected by the actions of certain hierarchs. The emergency session of the Synod is expected to be high-toned, and the Archbishop may take strict measures. Supporters of Metropolitan Tychikos are gathering signatures for his support.
A 35-year-old woman in Heraklion, Crete, reportedly gave birth at home and threw her baby in a trash bin. Her partner found her bleeding and called EMS, who discovered the baby in a bag. Both the mother and the baby were taken to the hospital for care. Their condition is currently under medical supervision.
The results regarding the water quality at Lady’s Mile beach are reassuring. Following analyses by the State General Chemical Laboratory, the waters were deemed clean and safe for swimming. Ongoing monitoring processes will ensure the health of bathers. These new measurements are expected to boost confidence among visitors during the summer months.
In Larissa, two children identified their mother and a 50-year-old taxi driver as perpetrators of physical abuse. The children are hospitalized with visible signs of abuse, while their parents deny the allegations. The mother has been arrested and is expected to testify, with authorities also investigating additional charges. The psychological support for the children is a priority.
The European Commission appears unwilling to accept a delay in the green tax on fuels, despite requests from the Cypriot authorities. Fuel prices are expected to rise by 3-4 cents per liter in 2025. The plan includes a proposed 50% reduction in the green tax. The government will consider compensatory measures for vulnerable groups.
Investigators are examining the case of classified documents found at the home of a prison guard. The documents appear to originate from the Police, the Ministry of Justice, and prison facilities. Former chiefs and ministers are expected to be called to testify in order to determine the source and filing of these documents. The investigation focuses on a limited number of prison staff who may be involved in the movement of the documents.
Odysseas Michailidis is officially entering politics with his new political movement, 'ALMA'. His public intervention has sparked various reactions and criticism, especially regarding the political figures surrounding him. He expressed interest in collaborating with Irini Charalambidou, while his success will depend on the support he can gather. Developments in his electoral campaign are eagerly anticipated.
Mosquitoes carry dangerous viruses that cause serious infections, such as Dengue fever and malaria. Every year, millions of people are infected and thousands lose their lives due to these diseases. Climate change and global population movements increase the incidence of infections. Scientists recommend precautions for travelers to regions with high risks of these diseases.
The Investigative Committee for the faulty TAKATA airbags is nearing its conclusion as the last public hearings are held with the presence of nine current and former Transport Ministers. The committee is examining the approval and import processes for vehicles with these airbags in Cyprus. After the hearings, the material will be evaluated, and final findings will be compiled. The awaited report will inform the public about possible omissions and recommended measures.
The police directive for transporting bodies from crimes and unnatural deaths has caused dissatisfaction among police officers. Officers are tasked with responsibilities that are typically handled by forensic experts, due to budget constraints for external services. The risks associated with this process, such as potential contact with infectious diseases, concern the officers. Many believe that this responsibility should fall to other competent authorities.
President Christodoulides provided instructions to his ministers in light of the upcoming 2026 elections, noting that the election atmosphere will be more intense. He urged them to remain responsible and base their actions on real data rather than cheap political comments. He highlighted positive economic forecasts and the necessity of targeted social policies. This was followed by the approval of an action plan for the repatriation of talent to the country.