During a duty handover at a police station in Paralimni, a service weapon accidentally discharged, injuring a police officer in the leg. The officer was taken to the General Hospital of Famagusta, where he was found to have a superficial wound. He will need stitches but is expected to be discharged. The Chief of Police has ordered an investigation into the incident. The event occurred around 7:45 PM.
A 28-year-old woman was found dead from a gunshot wound inside a military camp of the occupying army in Assia. Initially, it was considered a suicide, but there are doubts, and authorities are calling for full transparency in the investigation. The main suspect is a member of the Turkish army. Courts in the occupied area lack jurisdiction over Turkish soldiers. Despite local police efforts, they are unable to proceed due to a lack of jurisdiction.
The talks between the US and Ukraine in Geneva are making significant progress, featuring a revised plan of 19 points for a peaceful resolution of the war. Despite some disagreements, both sides are advancing in negotiations and have omitted many points from the initial 28. Europe rejects the idea of ceding non-Russian-occupied territories and calls for more military guarantees for Ukraine. Europeans also insist there should be no amnesty for war crimes and that Ukraine's NATO membership requires unanimous approval. Negotiations are ongoing, but full consensus has not yet been achieved.
The disability movement criticizes that many people with disabilities are excluded from welfare benefits due to strict income criteria. The president of KYSOA, Themidha Anthopoulou, mentioned that the state excludes 50% of individuals with severe disabilities. Despite planned government policies, the approved funding is insufficient for actual needs. Income criteria have led to the loss of benefits for 12,000 individuals, severely impacting their lives. This exclusion is described as a violation of human rights.
The Larnaca Police have been put on alert due to a stabbing incident at a construction site. An employee reportedly stabbed his employer in the neck with a sharp object. The suspect, a European citizen, was restrained by bystanders and handed over to the police. The scene has been cordoned off for investigation. More information will be provided shortly.
Transport Minister Alexis Vafeadis announced that foreign experts will be hired for a preventive inspection of all buses. This move comes after maintenance issues were noted in 14 vehicles out of the total 65 operating in Cyprus. The minister emphasized that contractors are obligated to maintain the buses according to manufacturers' specifications. The initiative aims to ensure passenger safety. Vafeadis highlighted the importance of an independent assessment of the vehicles' condition.
A 26-year-old Greek-Cypriot hit and killed a 20-year-old cyclist in Limassol. The driver was charged with speeding at 136 km/h in a 50 km/h zone. After his arrest, he was tested for alcohol and drugs, revealing he was under the influence. The accident occurred early Sunday morning, and the autopsy confirmed that the young cyclist died from severe injuries. Police investigations are ongoing to confirm the circumstances of the accident.
President Christodoulides attended the birthday celebration of Nectarios, a student from the Special School in Liopetri. He danced and sang during the festivities and announced that the Government will take actions for special education students. The extension of the students' stay in these schools will be for another year. The President stated that the Government is committed to finding permanent solutions and will review proposals for support programs. He described his discussion with parents and educators as very productive.
President Christodoulides stated that Savvas Angelidis has not submitted his resignation. He emphasized that the decision lies with Angelidis himself. He mentioned that he has never been informed about the situation concerning him. Regular communication with officials regarding problems is common. The President remains open to discussions about any concerns.
On Sunday, three fires broke out in different areas of Cyprus, requiring aerial assistance for extinguishing them. Notably, despite having allocated 14 firefighting aircraft during the summer, all had been released by mid-November. Only three Air Tractor 802 planes were available, with one out of service. Helicopters from the National Guard and Police were also requested for support. The increasing risk of fires highlights the need for a reevaluation of the country's fire protection protocols.
In his new book 'Ithaca', Alexis Tsipras discusses the negotiations regarding Cyprus, particularly the Conference in Crans-Montana. He emphasizes the decision of the SYRIZA government to focus on the international aspect of security and the withdrawal of Turkish troops. Tsipras mentions that he would only participate in negotiations if there were signs of a positive outcome. He considers the submission of the Guterres framework by the UN Secretary-General as a significant success for the Greek side. Tsipras evaluates meetings with the Turkish Prime Minister and the conditions for potential dialogue.
A large fire in Paphos continues to spread in several areas. The Cypriot government has requested aerial assistance from Greece, Israel, and Jordan. These countries responded positively and will send reinforcements. Strong firefighting forces remain on site, but the fire is not yet fully under control. Aerial operations will begin with the first light of day to help combat the flames.
Paphos is in shock following the death of 26-year-old Alexandros Antoniou, who suffered serious knife injuries. The community had hoped for his recovery, but the news of his death has led to widespread sorrow. The police have shifted the investigation from attempted murder to premeditated murder, with a 58-year-old suspect now in custody. Details of the case are currently under investigation, and Alexandros' funeral is scheduled for the coming days. This tragedy has highlighted the severity of violence issues in Cyprus.
According to Eurostat data, nearly 18% of household expenditures in Cyprus go towards housing, water, electricity, and fuel. Consumer spending in Cyprus has increased by 1.5%, while the EU sees stronger growth. The share of total household expenditure as a percentage of GDP in Cyprus is 61.6%, ranking fourth highest in the EU. Malta saw the largest increase in consumer spending, while Finland is the only country experiencing a decline. Expenditures for food and transportation are also significant in Cyprus.
The Ministry of Finance is considering revising the framework for granting student allowances to make it more targeted and socially sensitive. The aim is to support young people in accessing higher education and reduce social inequalities. Particular emphasis will be placed on families facing greater financial difficulties. The removal of income criteria for large families is being considered, although families with fewer children will not be included due to budgetary constraints. Any changes will only take effect from the date the relevant legislation is enacted.
From 2025 to 2027, savings rates for households in Cyprus are expected to increase, reaching 9.1% by 2027. This year, the savings rate is forecasted at 7.3%, rising to 8.3% in 2026. In contrast, other European countries like Greece are projected to have negative savings rates. Investment in Cyprus is expected to strengthen, supported by significant projects. However, Greek families struggle with low incomes and thus low savings.
The president of DIΠΑ, Marios Karoyian, clarified that no official proposal for cooperation has been made by DIKO. He emphasized that his party chooses an honest political stance, avoiding sensationalism. He highlighted the significant political disagreements that complicate the possibility of cooperation, especially regarding the Cyprus issue. Furthermore, he indicated that he would be open to collaboration if the right conditions existed. However, so far, no official proposal has been submitted by DIKO.
The Cypriot government is planning new reforms until 2028 to improve citizens' lives. The plan includes increases in pensions and the minimum wage. Strong economic indicators allow the government to proceed with these changes. There are also efforts for reforms in education. The goal is to enhance citizens' daily lives and increase their purchasing power.
Sabbas Angelidis did not submit a written resignation but met with President Christodoulides to express his concerns. The discussion took place in a friendly atmosphere and focused on the Anti-Corruption Authority and delays in examining cases involving him. Angelidis stated he would not continue if changes were not made and that he would not tolerate being targeted. Sources indicate that his circle prefers not to engage in public disputes regarding the matters discussed. Additionally, concerns related to the effectiveness of law enforcement and organized crime were highlighted.
A specialist from Greece conducted an inspection of buses in Paphos and concluded that the fires were caused by poor maintenance of the engines. It was recommended that all inspected vehicles be serviced immediately according to the manufacturer's instructions. Following the report, the Department of Road Transport began checks on other buses of the same make. The aim is to ensure the reliability of the public transport system. Despite previous measures, the frequency of fire incidents raises concerns.