5 Minute News

Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama introduced Diella, the virtual minister, humorously stating that she is 'pregnant' with 83 virtual assistants for members of the Socialist Party. Each assistant will participate in parliamentary sessions and support MPs with information. Diella 2.0 has a voice and a moving avatar, already assisting with government processes. Rama emphasized that Diella will help reduce corruption. Her introduction sparked mixed reactions in parliament, especially from the opposition.

An 82-year-old driver reportedly died while driving in Limassol. His collapse caused him to lose control of his vehicle and crash into another parked car. Authorities are investigating the case, and results from the autopsy are awaited to determine the exact cause of death. The incident raised concerns among local authorities. The investigation is ongoing.

President Christodoulides welcomed the French Undersecretary for European Affairs, Benjamin Haddad, to discuss the upcoming Cypriot Presidency of the EU Council. They noted that Cyprus and France share common goals in the European agenda. Christodoulides highlighted the importance of a strategic cooperation agenda between the two countries. Topics such as support for the Cypriot issue and the process of joining the Schengen zone were mentioned. The French Undersecretary expressed confidence that their cooperation would be strengthened by November.

Over 180 million Gmail passwords have been stolen by hackers. The data was collected through a security tool designed to detect malicious activity. The compromised information includes emails and passwords, with the number of affected accounts exceeding 15.3 billion. Hackers can use these stolen credentials for automated online fraud. To check if you are a victim, you can visit the website Have I Been Pwned.

Two brothers who were separated as infants reunited after 57 years in the French city of Caen. Frédéric Skelot discovered he had a brother, Jean-Marc, through an old family book and sought help from the newspaper Ouest-France. After research and support from readers, Jean-Marc was located, unaware of his brother's existence. The two men, who lived very close to each other, met and shared emotional moments, seeking answers about their past. Now, the brothers look forward to creating new experiences together.

The Public Service Commission announced the filling of four General Director positions in the ministries. The appointments will take effect from December 1, 2025. The candidates include Anna Aristotelous, Georgios Papageorgiou, Kyriakos Iordanou, and Pinelopi Papavasileiou. Pinelopi Papavasileiou is set to take on the position of General Director of Development in the Ministry of Finance. The final decision will be made by the Cabinet.

Donald Trump revealed that during a phone call with Netanyahu on October 4, he stressed the need for a ceasefire in Gaza. The agreement includes the return of hostages and humanitarian aid. Trump indicated that Israel cannot fight the whole world, warning of potential consequences if they do not comply. The situation in the Middle East is tied to Trump's strategic moves aimed at reshaping the region. The agreement involves maneuvers and pressures from both sides, particularly towards Hamas and Israel.

A school in Aglantzia experienced an incident with non-student aggressors trying to enter to attack students. Fortunately, police patrols prevented their entry and arrested one of them. Parents are concerned as groups are harassing students outside the school. Recently, a student was attacked and had to be taken to the hospital due to serious injuries. The situation remains worrying in the area.

The news of the death of Cypriot actor Antonis Faris has caused great sadness. Faris was known for his roles in popular series such as 'Meliartos' and 'The First Drop.' The announcement of his passing was made through the Facebook page 'CYPRIOT ACTORS.' His loss leaves a significant void in the artistic community. Condolences to his loved ones.

A 56-year-old Romanian was sentenced to 11 years in prison for attempting to import 16 kilograms of cannabis into Cyprus. The man admitted his charges and claimed he was motivated by financial and health issues. Authorities discovered the drugs in his luggage upon his arrival at Larnaca Airport. The court highlighted the frequency of such serious drug cases and the need for strict penalties. The man's situation appeared to be quite desperate as he sought to earn money.

New evidence in the murder case of Stavros Dimosthenous has emerged during the court proceedings in Limassol. A 51-year-old suspect was identified with a stolen vehicle near the victim's home. At the same time, warrants have been issued for two additional individuals. Investigators found that the stolen car is linked to the vehicles used by the perpetrators. The findings support the theory that a murder plan was in place beforehand.

New technologies, such as drones and autonomous systems, are being integrated into the equipment of the National Guard of Cyprus. The Ministry of Defense is working on acquiring these systems to improve operational capabilities. The Cypriot defense industry is developing products that can meet the needs of the National Guard. Processes are advanced, with potential agreements expected in the future. Additionally, job openings and training programs for drone usage are being planned.

The majority of Cypriots feel pessimistic about the prospects for the Cyprus issue following the election of Tufan Erhürman. Only 20% believe that his election could lead to a resolution, while 80.1% claim the solution depends on Turkey. A total of 2,865 people participated in an online poll about this. Most respondents, 57.45%, think that the solution passes through Turkey. Thus, opinions about the new leader are negative.

In Kissamos, Chania, a 52-year-old shepherd was killed by his cousin during a festival. The assailant shot the victim three times in the heart while he was dancing. Panic ensued among the attendees, who were in disbelief over the incident. The nature of the disagreements between the two relatives remains unclear, and police are looking into the possibility that the shot was fired at close range. This tragic event cast a shadow over the festive atmosphere of the celebration.

Last night, a car in Palaichori crashed into trees and overturned. An 18-year-old was ejected from the vehicle, while a 17-year-old was trapped inside. Fortunately, both were taken to the hospital, and their health is stable and out of danger. Traffic authorities are still investigating the circumstances of the accident. It is being examined who was driving the car.

Cat Alert Nicosia is actively working on stray cat issues, but the problem is worsening due to the government's decision to close public veterinary clinics. The increase in the stray cat population is not being adequately addressed, and citizens struggle to afford private clinic sterilization services. Local municipalities are passing the responsibility to volunteers, resulting in most sterilizations being done on owned cats. The stray cat population continues to grow, leading to public health concerns. Society needs to find solutions to manage this issue.

Nikos Christodoulides avoided commenting on the statements of the new Turkish Cypriot leader, Tufan Erhurman, to not escalate tensions. Erhurman’s remarks have caused disappointment among Greek Cypriots, many of whom had hoped for positive change. The new leader appears to want to exert pressure on the Greek Cypriot side and emphasizes that Turkey remains a guarantor. Moreover, he suggested that future negotiations should have a clear timeline. Lastly, he declared that improving relations with Turkey is a priority for him.

The apartment price index in Cyprus reached a new record in the second quarter of 2025, surpassing the 2008 levels. Prices have risen by 44% from the 2006 low, mainly due to increased demand and higher construction costs. Limassol shows the largest increase, with its index 93% higher compared to 2015. Prices in Nicosia, Larnaca, and Paphos are also on the rise, although Nicosia remains closer to its historical high. This trend contributes to a recovery in construction activity, although the supply of properties does not seem to meet the demand.

Cyprus is taking significant steps towards Circular Economy by reducing waste and enhancing sustainability. New national technical specifications and certifications for products made from recycled materials ensure compliance with environmental standards. These initiatives aim to raise public awareness and strengthen the market. Cyprus plans to share these actions with the EU, promoting cooperation for a greener future. The new certifications are expected to increase transparency and trust in the market.

The Ministry of Education has sent a Code of Practice for the prevention and handling of sexual harassment to schools. This Code informs employees about their rights and the definitions of harassment. It promotes training on equal treatment and prohibits discrimination. It encourages collaboration to ensure a healthy working environment. Its aim is to provide immediate protection for victims of harassment.

Many women in Cyprus report experiencing sexual harassment at work, but the number of complaints is very low. Since 2011, only 35 cases have been reported to the Gender Equality Committee in Employment and Vocational Education (EIEV). Additionally, 10% of victims who file complaints end up retracting them. The committee investigates the reasons for this silence and suggests changes in the system to support complainants. The EIEV's mission includes monitoring and promoting gender equality in the workplace.

This week is crucial for developments regarding the ATA, with significant meetings expected between the government and social partners. The Minister of Labor has already communicated with the leaders of the social partners, although the meetings have not been finalized. The government's proposal includes a gradual increase in the ATA, but employers oppose universal allocation. Trade unions express concern over the government's handling of the issue. There is a sense of urgency as both sides try to reach an agreement.

The murder case of 49-year-old Stavros Dimosthenous is evolving, with telecommunications data playing a crucial role. Six arrests have been made so far, including a 51-year-old considered key to the case. Investigators are also looking into the leak of photos of the victim's body, which has provoked strong reactions. The inquiry regarding the photos may lead to potential criminal proceedings. Authorities continue their investigations and arrests to resolve the case.