5 Minute News

3 months ago

Elon Musk has launched a strong criticism against the Republican budget bill, calling it a 'disgusting abomination' and warning about the risk of increasing the budget deficit. He expressed concern that it would burden citizens with unsustainable debt. The bill, which includes tax cuts and cuts to social programs, has already passed the House and is under consideration in the Senate. Musk is not alone in his criticism, as Senator Bernie Sanders has also agreed with him.

Dimitris Giannakopoulos expressed his disdain for the Angelopoulos brothers but emphasized that he will set personal feelings aside for the good of Panathinaikos. He highlighted the need to meet with the Olympiakos owners to uphold the government's terms. Giannakopoulos stated that anyone's absence from this meeting indicates a clear intention to disrupt the league. He stressed the importance of cooperation and respect for fans and athletes.

Lina Nikolakopoulou states that music brings society together and shares her thoughts on theater and music through her work 'Chorika Ydata'. She emphasizes the importance of memory and fate in her works, noting that her songs remain timeless. The creator highlights the need to shed light on her contributions to theater and describes the themes that concern her. Her central idea focuses on universal issues like love and power.

Three dogs that attacked a caregiver and two children are being considered for euthanasia. Experts evaluated the dogs and found they belong to banned breeds. The Community Council is awaiting guidance from the Veterinary Services on how to proceed. The Police have informed the council about the legislation concerning these specific breeds.

Kriton Tornaritis is a significant legal figure in Cyprus, known for his knowledge and creativity. Professor Achilles Emilianiadis has authored a new book documenting Tornaritis's biography, which provides valuable insights into the legal history of Cyprus. The book is considered an outstanding result of research and documentation. The presentation will take place on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at 6:00 PM.

A new case of sexual abuse of a minor has emerged, involving a young man as the accused. The accused allegedly committed the offenses in a teaching environment where the child was present. Following the minor's report, the accused was brought to court and imprisoned. The case raises concerns due to the increasing chain of similar incidents.

Cypriot companies in the defense industry are rapidly growing, with their numbers having increased tenfold in recent years. The defense sector generates approximately €40 million in revenue, and the government prioritizes its development. The Minister of Defense emphasized the importance of support for these companies, which can also provide products to the public sector. EU funding and government grants enhance their credibility and growth.

A 33-year-old defendant was sentenced to 16 months in prison for causing a fatal traffic accident five and a half years ago in Ypsonas, resulting in the death of a 17-year-old motorcyclist. The court highlighted the defendant's reckless driving, as he attempted to overtake in a prohibited area. Despite some mitigating factors, the defendant received a sentence due to the serious risk he posed. Taking into account his medical issues, the judge ordered prison time, a driver's license suspension, and penalty points.

In Akamas, two 25-year-old tourists were injured when the quad bike they rented fell into a 30-meter gorge. The accident occurred while they were driving on a dirt road, and the circumstances are under investigation by the police. They were transported to Paphos Hospital, where their condition is stable and not life-threatening. Authorities are looking into the causes of the accident.

This year, 5,119 candidates will participate in the Cyprus University Entry Exams for admission to public universities in Cyprus and Greece. The most popular field of study is the Medical School at the University of Cyprus, which has 633 candidates. The exams will begin on June 6 with the subject of Modern Greek. Examination statistics reveal trends and preferences among candidates regarding subjects and schools.

The Ministry of Interior announced the relaunch of the Subsidy Plans for residents of mountainous and remote areas, providing additional incentives to stay. In 2024, €8.5 million was allocated for 31,174 beneficiaries, along with an additional €3.3 million for support in mountainous areas. For 2025, the estimated expenditure is around €9 million, with a 50% increase in the subsidy for the Tillyria Communities. Applications will be accepted from June 2 to June 30, 2025.

Andreas Argyridis is going through tough health challenges after undergoing brain tumor removal surgery. The news was shared by Kostas Vichas on Facebook, as per Argyridis's request. These are hard times for the actor, and public support is important. We hope for a swift recovery.

Three dogs, a crossbreed of Pit Bull and Dogo Argentino, attacked a 25-year-old and two minor children. Their owners are in custody and face legal consequences for lacking the necessary licenses. Legislation mandates euthanasia for dogs from these banned breeds that display aggressive behavior. The owners claimed the dogs had never shown aggression prior to the attack.

The Court of Appeals found 10 out of 21 defendants guilty for the deadly fire in Mati in 2018. Among those guilty are officials from the Fire Service, while others, including well-known local politicians, were acquitted. Relatives of the victims reacted with outrage to the decision. The proceedings continue to elicit strong reactions from society.

The report from the Audit Office reveals questionable expenses by the Parliament, including €77,500 for canteen furniture and €60,620 for air conditioning. The procurement process raised transparency concerns as it was done through direct assignment. Additionally, it reports on the President's travel with seven companions to a luxury hotel, costing €15,172 for three nights.

Workers in community kindergartens in Cyprus are going on a 24-hour warning strike due to the indifference of the Ministry of Education. Their main demands include the degradation of kindergartens, loss of jobs, and the need for salary upgrades. The unions are asking for parents' support in their fight for better conditions. They emphasize that the responsibility lies with the relevant authorities.

A 5.8 magnitude earthquake occurred off the coast of Rhodes, resulting in the death of a 14-year-old girl in Turkey and injuries to dozens of others. According to Turkey's Interior Ministry, the girl suffered a panic attack and was taken to the hospital, where she unfortunately passed away. Most of the injuries were due to people jumping from heights in a panic during the quake. The tremor was notably felt along the Turkish coast.

Constantinos Kollias will be the new ambassador of Greece in Nicosia, replacing Ioannis Papameletiou. Kollias has previous experience in Cyprus and is expected to handle critical issues such as the Cyprus problem and energy matters. Papameletiou concludes his term and will move to a new position. The transfers also include other Greek diplomats to significant roles globally.

A new round of discussions about the ATAs begins today, as the current agreement ends this month. The Minister of Labor will meet with the unions, but expectations for negotiation are low. The unions demand an increase in the inflation index to 100%, while employers suggest abolishing the current system. Meetings with employers are expected next week before the Geneva conference.

The Cypriot government wants the Cyprus negotiation process to continue without delays due to the upcoming elections in the occupied areas. It acknowledges that these elections affect the situation, but insists that movement should not cease. Foreign Minister María Angela Holguín is continuing her contacts with key international stakeholders. The discussions focus on creating a positive atmosphere for future negotiations.

A strong earthquake measuring 5.8 occurred off Rhodes at 2:17 AM, with its epicenter located 21 kilometers north of the island at a depth of 64.9 kilometers. Fortunately, there have been no reports of damages or injuries. Authorities promptly sent warning messages to residents and visitors. Geologist Efthymios Lekkas stated that no significant surface effects are expected and that this is likely the main quake.

The Administrative Court annulled the disciplinary penalty imposed by the Commissioner of Administration on an employee, as the procedures had not been completed. The employee requested the annulment of the penalty, arguing that she had not received the statements concerning her. The Court agreed with the employee, noting that the required procedures were not followed. Consequently, the Commissioner's decision was annulled.

Nikos Anastasiou, the new president of EDEK, is initiating a campaign to bring back former party members. His goal is to strengthen unity and member participation ahead of the 2026 parliamentary elections. Anastasiou plans to collaborate with prominent party figures to approach former members. Additionally, he states that EDEK will run independently in the elections, putting an end to rumors of collaboration with other parties.

The proposal for euthanasia will not proceed for now, as the focus is shifting to palliative care and home healthcare. High tensions dominated the discussions in Parliament, concerning rights to a dignified life and death. The chairwoman of the Committee announced that more time will be given for the legislation promoting palliative care. The discussion on euthanasia will return to Parliament after January 2026.

The Holy Synod faces four main issues concerning dismissals and penalties. Metropolitan of Morphou is expected to receive a reprimand for his provocative statements. The case of priest Dimos Serkelidis seems to be leading to dismissal. The situation around Abbot Avvakum is also uncertain and may lead to new tensions.

Construction work for the renovation of the NICU at Makarios Hospital is currently stalled. OKYPY has stated that the contract with the contractor is under review by legal advisors. Delays were caused by issues from the Fire Service and the contractor's inability to proceed. Further discussion on this matter is expected in Parliament on Thursday.

The Investigative Committee regarding the faulty Takata airbags is expected to complete its report by July 12, having requested an extension due to the broad scope of the inquiry. The report will document potential omissions and legislative gaps, examining traffic incidents related to these airbags. It will also suggest measures to prevent similar incidents in the future and may lead to criminal or administrative liabilities. The investigation has already focused on cases from 2017, highlighting significant issues related to vehicle recalls.