5 Minute News

The public confrontation between Elon Musk and Donald Trump is escalating, with Musk claiming that Trump's name is on Jeffrey Epstein's list. Musk has also criticized Trump's new bill, calling it wasteful. Trump responds by downplaying the rift and Musk's influence. The situation appears to be leading to an irreparable split between the two.

The police in Limassol were mobilized due to gunfire at a company's offices on St. Andrew Street. Strong police forces have cordoned off the area and have found casings on the street. The situation is developing, and more information is expected soon. The community is watching the situation closely.

The parliament has passed a law recognizing women who were engaged to missing persons during the Turkish invasion of 1974. These women, who did not marry anyone else while waiting for their fiancés' return, will now receive official recognition from the state. The stories of Ivi and Dimitra, who waited for years to learn the fate of their loved ones, highlight the injustice they have faced. This legislative measure aims to provide support to these women.

The decision of the Holy Synod regarding the dismissal of the former Paphos Metropolitan Tychikos remains in effect, as announced by Archbishop Georgios. It is noted that only penalties related to deposition or excommunication can justify a suspension of the penalty. The Archbishop continues as the caretaker of the Paphos Metropolitan See, while the process of filling the throne is delayed for at least six months due to Tychikos's appeal to the Ecumenical Patriarchate.

Cyprus is recognized for the quality of its seas and beaches. This year, 64 beaches and 2 marinas have been awarded the Blue Flag. This highlights Cyprus's commitment to environmental protection. The full list of awarded beaches has been published.

The Permanent Criminal Court of Nicosia found five individuals guilty of the murder of 60-year-old Dorotheos Demetriades, who was killed on January 4, 2023, in Latsia. The defendants include the husband of 32-year-old Elena Andreou, who has been released under conditions, and three other men. The court's decision followed extensive hearing proceedings. Sentences will be announced at a future hearing.

On Thursday, 24 consumer organizations from 21 countries, including the Cypriot Consumer Association, filed an official complaint against SHEIN with the European Commission. The complaint is based on a study showing that SHEIN uses misleading techniques to encourage consumers to purchase more. Additionally, there are concerns about harmful chemicals in some of SHEIN's products. The organizations are urging authorities to take action to protect consumers.

President Nikos Christodoulides responded to concerns about the book accompanying Cyprus's participation in the 19th International Architecture Biennale, stating it was not approved by the Deputy Minister of Culture. He called the content of the book unacceptable and requested its withdrawal. He emphasized that the representation of history cannot be altered, as the international community acknowledges the Turkish invasion of 1974. The publishers claimed it was an expression of freedom, which the President refuted.

Metropolitan Tychikos has appealed to the Ecumenical Patriarchate after the decision of the Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus to suspend him from his duties. This appeal halts the Synod's decisions until the Patriarchate makes a ruling. Consequently, Tychikos remains the Metropolitan of Paphos, and the election process for a new metropolitan is suspended. This development also results in the cessation of the Archbishop of Cyprus's oversight of the Metropolitanate of Paphos.

M.Residence held the grand opening of its new iconic office at 'The House of M' on May 29, celebrating innovation and the evolution of real estate in Cyprus. The event, hosted by Faye Skorda and Tasos Tryfonos, welcomed over 300 guests, and CEO Nikola Michalias thanked the company's supporters. Founded in 2017, M.Residence stands out for its innovative platforms in the PropTech sector. The evening concluded with music and fireworks that delighted attendees.

There has been significant discussion regarding the purchase of expensive furniture for the Parliament, which was approved by the President of the Parliament. The furniture was acquired through direct assignment without a competition, which sparked reactions. The Parliament argues that upgrading its spaces is essential for hosting diplomatic missions. The President expressed dissatisfaction with the negative comments she has received about this issue.

The Tax Commissioner, Sotiris Markidis, stated that there will be no tolerance for the debts of football clubs to the state. Teams are required to follow a repayment plan of 145 installments, or they will face strict penalties. Each club received details regarding their monthly payments based on their debts.

The case of three girls allegedly murdered by their father has shocked the United States. The victims were found dead near a campground in Washington, suffocated and bound. Their father, a military veteran, had a diagnosis of mental disorders and a history of aggressive behavior. Authorities are offering a reward for information leading to his capture.

The Archbishop of Cyprus has identified tenants of the properties of the Metropolis of Paphos who owe significant rental amounts. The repayment of these debts will be a priority for the Archdiocese's accountants, who warn that legal action may follow if payments are not made. Meanwhile, the situation regarding the former Metropolitan Tychikos remains unclear, with important decisions expected soon. A declaration from Tychikos is also anticipated to avoid doubts about his intentions.

On Thursday morning, an earthquake occurred in the maritime area between Cyprus and Turkey. The earthquake was measured at a magnitude of 4.1 according to the Euro-Mediterranean Institute. More information regarding the earthquake is expected soon. Residents in Turkey may have felt it.

Today, the foundation stone for the expansion of Larnaca and Paphos airports is being laid by President Nikos Christodoulides. The expansion includes the construction of a new terminal wing and other facilities to improve passenger experience. The total cost of the projects amounts to 170 million euros and will be carried out by Hermes Airports. The works are expected to be completed in 30 months for Larnaca airport and 27 months for Paphos airport.

In Chloraka, a car accident occurred when a 39-year-old driver overtook and collided with another vehicle. Following the collision, the 39-year-old and his passenger attacked the 34-year-old driver of the first vehicle with metallic objects. The 34-year-old sustained injuries, while a passenger in the first vehicle is hospitalized. The police have arrested the 39-year-old and are investigating the case.

Odysseas Michailidis emphasizes the need to strengthen civil society and fight corruption independently of political parties. Although there are rumors of a possible collaboration with AKEL, he denies any 'flirting' and highlights that his movement, 'Alma', aims to distance itself from the party establishment. The discussions around his political stance and positions could influence future collaborations in the political landscape of Cyprus.

The Health Services Organization and public doctors are in ongoing conflict over the incentives doctors receive in addition to their salaries. Although discussions have started, no agreement has been reached regarding the amounts and terms of the incentives. This delay has resulted in a pending payment of about €2.3 million owed to doctors from previous years. Doctors are seeking higher incentives due to increased revenues, while the Organization requests proof of productivity increases first.

The decision by the Cabinet introduces significant changes in crisis management and disaster response in Cyprus, transforming the Civil Defense into the General Directorate of Civil Protection. The new structure will take on a central coordinating role for all involved forces and will be implemented according to EU standards. The modernization aims to improve crisis management and enhance national resilience against modern threats. The new organization is expected to be completed by September 2026.

The Blue Ocean case involves debts totaling €14 million. The Tax Commissioner, Sotiris Markidis, has initiated legal actions against former officials of the company for potential criminal liabilities related to VAT. Blue Ocean has been listed for deletion due to non-compliance with obligations and has faced numerous legal processes up to now.

Alexandra Lycurgu has received the go-ahead for investigatory testimonies regarding the case of George Koumas, relating to television rights. Other individuals associated with the case may also be summoned for questioning. The investigations suggest the possibility of serious criminal offenses. The final decision on prosecution will rest with the Attorney General.

There are several practical issues arising regarding the mandatory notification of parents about their children's absences from school. The need for communication is recognized by all, aiming to prevent risks to the children. However, difficulties arise concerning the implementation of these proposals, such as the lack of staff in kindergartens. The Education Committee is examining these issues and possible solutions.

In Cyprus, there are concerns about electricity availability this summer due to limited production and rising demand. The Electricity Regulatory Authority of Cyprus has begun the process of recording private generators to meet urgent consumption needs. These generators may be critical during the evening hours when solar energy is not available. The situation is serious, but so far, no significant power outages have occurred.