Russia warns Greece about its actions regarding the use of drones in Ukraine. Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, stated that Greece is following a provocative policy towards Russia. She emphasized that Greece has sent weapons to Ukraine, which are being used against civilians. Russia plans to respond appropriately to these actions. The situation is tense, with historical ties between Greece and the affected areas.
The cost difference for recovery between the fires in Arakapas in 2021 and in the Limassol district in 2025 is enormous. The Minister of Interior stated that the recovery cost in Limassol is expected to reach €60 million, nearly 35 times higher than the fire in Arakapas. So far, over €4 million has been spent on recovery efforts. Compensation for businesses and agricultural damages will be additional to this amount. This highlights the dramatic increase in economic costs associated with major fires.
The circulation of the new K strain of the influenza A(H3N2) virus is worrying experts as it shows increased transmissibility. This flu season started earlier than usual, with cases rising since October. The virus has undergone many mutations, prompting scientists to recommend close monitoring of vaccine effectiveness. Despite these changes, preliminary data indicate that vaccination still provides strong protection against severe illness. However, the outlook for this flu season remains uncertain.
An 85-year-old retiree from Limassol is asking the municipality to continue funding for pigeon food. He claims he started feeding pigeons three years ago after finding out they died from starvation. The municipality provided some funding in the past, but it has now stopped. The retiree states he has spent around 8,000 euros and intends to continue his daily feeding efforts. The municipality's decision to withdraw funding is based on residents' complaints about cleanliness issues.
Entrepreneur Panos Marinopoulos, known in the Greek retail sector, passed away at the age of 74 due to anoxic encephalopathy. He was an integral part of the Marinopoulos family, which had a significant presence in the Greek market since 1893. Although he retired from active business before the group's collapse, he remained active in social and cultural activities. The family has been a major economic force for decades, and the group's fall in the mid-2010s marked the end of an era. His death adds another layer to the business history of modern Greece.
The Russian spy ship 'Yandar' has been spotted near British territorial waters north of Scotland, where it targeted British aircraft with lasers. Russia appears to be testing the reactions of Britain and the West, as the ship is designed to monitor and jeopardize underwater infrastructure. British authorities warn of military options if the ship moves south. This situation highlights the sensitivity of maritime borders and national security. Such an incident could cause significant disruption without prior warning.
In the upcoming 2026 parliamentary elections, nicknames will not be allowed on ballots. This was established during a meeting of the Parliamentary Internal Committee, which addressed the need for easy identification of candidates by voters. Concerns were raised about potential confusion among candidates sharing similar names. The Legal Service suggested that in cases of name duplication, candidates can include their father's name or profession. MP Dimitris Dimitriou voiced objections to these restrictions.
Tufan Erhurman described his meeting with Nicos Christodoulides as sincere and positive. He presented a package of 10 proposals aimed at creating a conducive atmosphere for a solution on the island. The proposals include facilitation of mixed marriages and resolution of trade issues. The two leaders will continue to communicate and work together through representatives. Erhurman also mentioned that he had submitted 4 proposals regarding the conditions that would favor resuming talks.
A 22-year-old from Koropi tragically died after attempting to swallow a whole burger as part of a dangerous challenge. After seven days in the hospital, he succumbed due to airway blockage. Despite medical efforts, his condition was deemed irreversible. His parents were informed about their child's critical situation. There was significant concern and panic from the family during the incident.
The Jewish Community of Cyprus is planning a tree planting event in honor of Donald Trump, which has sparked reactions in Larnaca. The organizers did not inform the Municipality about the event, scheduled for November 23, 2025. Parents of a local school reacted strongly and sought clarifications from the authorities. It is noted that the tree planting will take place in a public traffic island and there will be no signs. The Municipality is reviewing the permit and signage placement.
Two 28-year-old Greek nationals from Georgia were arrested as suspects in the murder of Stavros Dimosthenous and were flown from Thessaloniki to Cyprus. The police implemented strict security measures during their transfer. The suspects will be questioned by the police and presented at court to request their detention. A total of 17 charges have been filed against them, related to the murder. This incident has sparked significant developments in the area.
The first meeting between President Nikos Christodoulides and Tufan Erhurman has concluded in Nicosia. The UN Secretary-General's special envoy for Cyprus participated via video conference. Christodoulides mentioned he has proposals aimed at positive developments and the resumption of negotiations. Erhurman was accompanied by Deputy Minister Mehmet Dana. Participants believe this meeting was a first step towards continuing dialogue.
Two parents in California were convicted for the horrific murder of their two children. After beheading 13-year-old Maliaka and 12-year-old Maurice Jr., they forced their younger siblings to witness the act. The gruesome crime occurred in November 2020, and the parents were brought to justice after the bodies were discovered. Neighbors had reported a disturbing smell coming from their home, which led to an investigation. Their sentencing is expected to be announced on January 13.
The police are investigating an online fraud case that resulted in the theft of €16,000. The complainant received a message on his mobile phone that appeared to be from the GESY. The message urged him to renew his profile, or his account would be deactivated. Following the instructions, he provided his bank card details. The fraud was discovered when he confirmed that the money had been stolen from his bank account.
The process for re-tendering bids for the Paphos-Polis Chrysochous highway is progressing after the rejection of appeals by the Aktaion-Intrakat consortium. The Review Authority for Tenders dismissed all 11 objections submitted by the consortium. This decision allows the Department of Public Works to move forward with new bids. The deadline for these bids has been extended to avoid further delays. The ruling is regarded as beneficial for the region and the state as a whole.
Cristiano Ronaldo visited the White House with President Donald Trump as part of a Saudi delegation. It marked his first public appearance in the US since 2017, when he faced allegations of rape, which he has denied. During the visit, Trump personally showed Ronaldo and his partner Georgina Rodriguez around the White House. The photos shared sparked mixed reactions from fans, with some expressing discontent over his association with such a controversial political figure. This visit stirred discussions about Ronaldo's image.
The Trump administration has proposed a 28-point plan for resolving the war in Ukraine, which includes concessions to Russia. Zelensky stated that Ukraine is ready for peace, but not for loss of sovereignty. The plan requires recognition of Russian control over areas in Ukraine and limits on the country's military forces. Zelensky emphasizes the importance of American leadership in achieving peace. Discussions with Turkey to facilitate peace talks are ongoing.
On Wednesday, Israeli air strikes in Gaza resulted in the deaths of at least 27 people, marking one of the deadliest days since the truce was established. Israel and Hamas exchanged accusations over ceasefire violations, creating a tense atmosphere. The bombings have left residents in despair, struggling with survival issues. Statements from citizens highlight the dire situation as life in Gaza has plummeted. Hamas has called on the U.S. to exert pressure for adherence to the truce.
The first meeting between President Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhumann took place this morning. Although expectations are low, the main goal remains the restart of negotiations on the Cyprus issue. Christodoulides expressed hopes for positive outcomes, while Erhumann acknowledged a suitable atmosphere but cautioned against high expectations. Both leaders and the UN Secretary-General are optimistic that this meeting could provide a new direction for the talks. The future of the Cyprus issue will depend on their next moves.
Despite the decrease in the producer price of pork, the prices consumers pay have not decreased accordingly, and further increases are expected ahead of Christmas. Consumers are turning to cheaper options like chicken. The absence of fresh meats from the price comparison platform, e-kalathi, allows supermarkets to maintain higher prices. Therefore, the inclusion of key pork items in e-kalathi is suggested. The Consumer Protection Agency is examining ways to upgrade the platform.
There will be a meeting at the Presidential Palace with the presidents of European employer organizations and President Nikos Christodoulides. This meeting is part of the CoPres of BusinessEurope taking place in Nicosia, hosted by the OEB. A total of 42 employer organizations from 36 countries are participating. The agenda includes the Cypriot Presidency, economic strategies, and international relations. George Pantelides, the President of OEB, serves as the Vice President of BusinessEurope.
The Environmental Authority has approved the construction of a new aircraft maintenance hangar for Bird Aviation at Larnaca Airport. The project, costing approximately €3 million, is expected to be completed within a year and will include two modern hangars, both large and small. This development will not impact the protected Natura 2000 area. Various environmental conditions have been set to ensure the protection of the environment during construction. The company employs over 250 staff, the majority of whom are Cypriots.
An electronic connection between Cyprus and Greece for cross-border health services has been launched. This service makes it easier for Cypriots and Greeks to access medical information. Users can fill prescriptions electronically in both countries. Citizens need to activate their accounts to utilize the services. The process includes accessing health history and necessary medical information.
The police arrested a 58-year-old for attempted murder in the Koni area of Paphos. A 26-year-old who was stabbed is in critical condition at the Paphos Hospital. Initial reports suggest personal differences between the two men. The incident occurred outside a kiosk and involved a heated discussion before the attack. Police have launched an investigation and the scene has been cordoned off.
A 69-year-old lawyer from Limassol was sentenced to six months in prison for issuing an uncovered cheque of €175,000. The cheque was issued in 2019 and could not be cashed due to a closed bank account. The judge emphasized the seriousness of the offense but recognized the lawyer's remorse and clean criminal record. However, she concluded that imprisonment was the only appropriate punishment to deter further legal violations. The complainant stated that he was approached by the lawyer to invest in a shipping fund.
The proposed tax reform allows taxpayers to benefit from additional tax deductions for children, students, and green grants, with conditions related to their family income. To receive these deductions, applicants must submit a tax return and comply with deadlines. The deductions are mainly aimed at families with an annual income below €80,000. Large families and individuals with incomes up to €40,000 will also be eligible for additional deductions. Tax exemptions will not apply to expenses already covered by public grants.