Five Greek Cypriots are unlawfully detained by the occupying authorities, with the process at the 'military court' lasting over 10 hours. Turkish Cypriot trade unionist Sener Elcil offered to post bail for the accused, believing in their innocence. The atmosphere was tense, with comments and reactions from the 'prosecutor' and the 'judge'. The Greek Cypriots stated they were visiting their properties and asserted that they complied with the entry procedures.
Donald Trump announced the deployment of two U.S. nuclear submarines in response to Dmitry Medvedev's provocative statements. Trump emphasized the importance of words and their unpredictable consequences. Medvedev countered that Trump's reaction indicates Russia is on the right path. Ultimately, the situation highlights the dramatic political tension between the U.S. and Russia.
Donald Trump labeled the war in Ukraine as ridiculous, distancing himself from responsibility and blaming Joe Biden instead. He cited unverified figures on Russian military casualties and expressed a potential ability to end the war if re-elected. His statement appears to be a strategic preparation for possible peace negotiations. Vladimir Putin reaffirmed that Russia's strategic objectives remain unchanged.
Finance Minister Maki Keravnos disputes the funding for the electricity interconnection between Cyprus and Crete, highlighting a conflict with Cabinet decisions. He stated that consumers would bear the costs, as the government does not intend to add new expenses. Keravnos emphasized that the project is currently frozen, and the release of additional funds cannot be justified. Despite his statements, the process for disbursing the 25 million euros continues, although there is confusion regarding the project's status.
The reports concerning the fire in Orenia Limassol are being delivered to the President of the Republic. They come from the Fire Service, the Police, the Department of Forests, and Civil Defense. The ministers will not make additional recommendations, as the reports document the failures and gaps identified. The President will review the reports and may request the establishment of an Inquiry Committee if deemed necessary.
The fire in Malya is under serious investigation by the Limassol CID, focusing on the causes and the circumstances surrounding the deaths of two elderly individuals. Authorities are evaluating various scenarios, including the possibility of arson, but so far no concrete evidence has been found. Investigators continue to collect testimonies and examine satellite images to identify any suspicious activity. The situation remains unclear regarding the origin of the fire and the circumstances of the victims' deaths.
In the occupied territories, a male employee from the land registry department was arrested for supplying documents to five Greek Cypriots who illegally entered the area. The Greek Cypriots crossed through the Strovilia checkpoint, violating the military zone. During the investigation, it was revealed that the documents in their possession were provided to them by the realtor A.U., who was also arrested. The investigation is ongoing, and a three-day detention for N.O. has been requested.
The police are investigating an attempted murder against a 47-year-old in Dromolaxia. The assailant, who has not yet been located, left his scooter behind and fled on foot. The victim has reported some suspicions regarding the motives behind the attack, which the police are examining. Investigations continue with the assistance of drones and ground teams.
A 54-year-old accountant was sentenced to 8 years in prison for the theft of 3.2 million euros from her employer. Her 68-year-old husband received a two-year sentence, which was suspended. The court emphasized the seriousness of the theft and the breach of trust involved. The husband was recognized as not being the mastermind of the crime, with his wife playing the leading role.
The police are investigating the traffic accident that resulted in the death of 20-year-old Kyriakos Antoniou in Aglandjia. Using drones, they are analyzing the speed of the 24-year-old driver, who is reported to have been driving at 150 km/h in a 50 km/h zone. However, the responsibility of the 24-year-old has not yet been established, as official evidence is pending. The tragedy has brought the issue of road safety in the area back into focus.
The next Joker draw will distribute at least €19,300,000 to the winners of the first category. In the last draw, two lucky tickets won €100,000 each in the second category, with one of them played in Larnaca. Draws take place every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday at 10:00 PM.
The White House will get a new ballroom worth $200 million, as announced by the press secretary. The new ballroom will accommodate 650 guests and construction is set to begin in September. President Trump has expressed his commitment to addressing the lack of event space. Funding will come from himself and donors.
Reports on the deadly fire in Limassol reveal gaps and weaknesses but do not highlight any mistakes. Relevant services documented their actions and suggested corrections. There were deficiencies in the evacuation and communication systems. Recommendations are expected for the establishment of a central civil protection entity.
Starting in October, over 2,000 families in Cyprus will no longer need to transport oxygen cylinders dangerously. The Health Insurance Organization will provide oxygen concentrators through the General Health System. These concentrators will be available to patients with respiratory issues, excluding those who use ventilators. More details on the procurement process will be announced soon by the HIO.
The Health Insurance Organization is conducting a strict review of the beneficiaries receiving Ozempic, limiting its administration exclusively to diabetics. Doctors are requested to submit patient requests by August 2025. This decision was made due to the misuse of the drug by individuals seeking weight loss. Aimed at protecting genuine patients, the Organization is establishing strict procedures for prescribing.
After four years of discussions, a bill is being prepared that would allow the electronic monitoring of defendants with bracelets instead of imprisoning them. The court will have the authority to decide whether defendants can stay at home. Certain offenses, such as murder and drug trafficking, will be excluded from this measure. The main objective is to reduce penalties for less serious cases.
The police have been put on high alert following an attempted murder of a 47-year-old man in Larnaca. The man, who owns several businesses, gave a statement to the police, indicating that he was targeted by an unknown assailant. Investigations are focusing on his business and personal relationships, while searches continue for the suspect who fled on foot after abandoning a scooter. Extensive police operations have been carried out in the area, and all scenarios remain under investigation.
Cyprus ranks 15th among the 22 EU countries with a minimum wage based on purchasing power units, standing at 1078. It falls in the middle category, while developed countries in Northern Europe have significantly higher wages. Notably, the disparities in minimum wages are smaller when adjusted for purchasing power units, indicating variations in living standards. The minimum wage in Cyprus is €1,000, remaining stable since 2024.