5 Minute News

An article from the British magazine 'The Critic' suggested a potential agreement for the return of the Parthenon Marbles to Greece as a permanent loan. However, official sources from the Greek government refute these claims, stating that there are no new developments on the matter. The Times of London mention a mutual loan agreement is being considered, but no agreement has been finalized yet. The Parthenon sculptures have been a topic of discussion for decades, with Greece continuing to demand their return.

The participation of Cyprus in this year's Architecture Biennale has sparked controversy over a related publication. The Cyprus Architects Association criticized the Ministry of Culture for withdrawing the publication without dialogue. The association's vice president distanced herself, stating that the controversial publication should not overshadow Cyprus's presence. The association calls for constructive dialogue to restore Cyprus's representation in the event.

The case of Madeleine McCann takes a new turn with accusations against German prosecutors for inadequate investigation regarding the possibility that the minor was hit by a drunk driver. Reports suggest that Portuguese authorities pointed to the German wife as a potential culprit, claiming she hid Madeleine's body. However, German authorities refused to cooperate with Portuguese authorities. Central to the investigation are the circumstances surrounding the events at the time of the disappearance.

On Saturday, a 27-year-old foreign man was found dead in his home in Ypsonas, Limassol, following a fire that started in the kitchen. Authorities have not found evidence of foul play, and the scene has been secured for investigation. Clarification on the causes of the fire and the man's death is expected from an autopsy. Investigations are ongoing to establish the facts.

It seems that the Parthenon Marbles are returning to Greece, as the president of the British Museum has agreed to hand them over. A deal between the Greek government and the British Museum is likely to proceed, despite the need to amend the British Museum Act of 1963. The Greek government asserts its legal claim to the sculptures, making it unlikely they will return to Britain. The British Museum maintains its position that discussions for cooperation are ongoing.

Archbishop George has initiated the process to examine the appeal of former Paphos Metropolitan, Mr. Tychikos, who has been suspended. A key question is whether Tychikos is no longer a Metropolitan or if he is simply trying to maintain control. Tychikos has the right to appeal to the Ecumenical Patriarchate, and the process of appointing a new Metropolitan cannot begin for six months. There is also interest in who advised him to proceed with this appeal.

A tragic incident occurred in the village of Georganades in Trikala, where a mother and her son were found dead in their home. The 50-year-old son reportedly died first from a heart condition, followed later by his 77-year-old mother, who was bedridden. The situation came to light when a relative visited and discovered them unresponsive. Authorities and paramedics were called to the scene, confirming their deaths.

A 46-year-old mother and her 6-year-old daughter were found dead in Belgium after a fire broke out in their home. The Prosecutor's Office is investigating the case as a double homicide, as both victims had stab wounds. The father is currently serving at the front in Ukraine, while the 16-year-old son is being supported by specialized services. The local community is in shock, and support measures are being planned for students at the young girl’s school.

Elon Musk stated that a new political party is needed in the United States to represent centrist voters. In a poll he conducted on platform X, 80.4% of participants agreed with this idea. This announcement comes amid his public fallout with Donald Trump. Musk's proposal appears to have significant support from those who feel politically homeless.

Androula Vassiliou's post about the APOEL building caused an uproar among the team's supporters. She described the building as 'pathetic' and called for its demolition. Chris Triantafyllidis responded strongly to her criticism, defending the team.

The dispute between Donald Trump and Elon Musk took a new turn with accusations regarding Epstein. Musk claimed that Trump is deliberately hiding information about himself related to Epstein, who was a friend of Trump since the 1980s. Trump has publicly stated in the past that Epstein is a 'fantastic guy' who enjoys beautiful women. Trump's relationship with Epstein has raised questions and doubts about his moral stance.

Police officers are violating the Road Traffic Code while driving patrol cars and government vehicles, as recorded by the photo enforcement system. The Audit Office informed the police leadership about numerous violations, raising concerns within the police administration. The police are developing mechanisms to address these violations, including consultation with the Legal Service. A form is being created to record the violations committed by police officers, which will be evaluated by their department heads.

The renovation of the old GSP in Nicosia has been completed and is set to be handed over to the public, marking a new era for the city center. The project, costing over €20 million, includes green spaces, commercial uses, and event areas. The new square will offer public spaces and support sustainability through cycling and walking paths. The inauguration will take place on Saturday, June 14, with the attendance of the President.

The quantities of drugs seized in Cyprus in the first five months of 2025 are unusually high, corresponding to two-thirds of the amounts seized in 2024. Traffickers are adapting their methods and are now using three main gateways for smuggling drugs. The Anti-Drug Unit (YKAN) is making systematic efforts to locate and seize drugs, but the number of users continues to rise. The risks posed by drug trafficking remain a serious concern for society.

The political landscape is quite fluid, with increased activity for the creation of new parties. In the upcoming parliamentary elections, more parties may participate in the third allocation of seats, which did not happen in previous elections. There are also uncertain votes that could influence the outcome of the election results. Ultimately, some candidates may participate in the allocation without gaining a seat in Parliament.

Starting in July, efforts regarding Cyprus will focus on New York, where the second informal five-party conference is scheduled to take place. Colin Stewart's briefing to the Security Council will outline the current situation in Cyprus and international efforts. After his departure, a successor for the UN Secretary-General's special representative in Cyprus will be sought. The briefing is expected to show limited progress on the topics discussed earlier.

The situation in Pissouri is critical due to landslides, resulting in areas being declared off-limits for residential development. Approximately 50 homeowners in vulnerable areas have been instructed to evacuate their properties. There are ongoing issues with a protective wall that has failed to stop the landslides. Authorities are considering measures to gradually mitigate the phenomenon.

The investigation by the CID focuses on the former Auditor General, Odysseas Michailidis, due to allegations of contempt of justice. His statements regarding a close associate of the President's knowledge of the Supreme Court's decision are being examined. Additionally, material from Michailidis's previous TV appearances has been requested. Investigators are asking journalists to sign off on the content of his statements, while Sotiris Paroutis expresses dissatisfaction with this development.