A fire broke out tonight at a candle manufacturing unit in Liopetri. The fire started around 8:30 PM. Many fire trucks have rushed to the scene to extinguish the flames. The fire department is in the process of battling the fire, with images and videos circulating from the incident. The situation is being closely monitored.
Donald Trump announced that he will soon start attacks on targets within Venezuela. During a cabinet meeting, he stated that he knows where the drug traffickers are located and that the attacks will begin soon. This decision marks an escalation in the U.S. stance against these traffickers. The attacks are expected to take place from land. The president has been considering this strategy for several weeks.
Sotiris Christou has resigned as the Deputy President of the Ecologist Movement and announced his joining of the new Green Party of Cyprus. In his statement, he emphasized that his decision is a continuation of his efforts for a sustainable world. He also highlighted the importance of transparency and defending citizens' rights. Christou remains focused on his values and is committed to fighting for the common good. Politics must be based on trust and accountability.
Former Vice President of the Commission, Federica Mogherini, has been arrested in an investigation by the European Prosecutor's Office regarding potential fraud involving EU funds. The case involves a program for training new diplomats funded by the EU. Belgian authorities executed searches at the offices of the European External Action Service and the College of Europe. The investigation focuses on irregularities in the distribution of funding. A total of three individuals have been arrested, including Mogherini and two of her associates.
Cyprus ranks last in the EU regarding gender equality. The main issue is that women have limited free time due to household responsibilities. Despite improvements in areas like health and work, women still face barriers to holding positions of power. Additionally, biases and gender stereotypes affect professional choices. The Gender Equality Commissioner acknowledges these problems and is working towards achieving equal representation.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that the United States and Ukraine have reached a 20-point plan to end the war. During talks in Florida, negotiators agreed on an improved framework for a peace agreement developed in Geneva. Zelensky stated that Ukraine seeks greater support from European allies. He also mentioned that some issues, such as territorial concessions, are sensitive and challenging. Ukraine is committed to a meaningful peace process, while Russia is accused of employing strategies that complicate negotiations.
The Court of Appeals overturned a decision from the District Court of Limassol concerning a traffic accident from 2009. The pedestrian involved had been awarded €200,000 in damages, but the driver challenged this responsibility. The Appeals Court found that the initial decision lacked sufficient justification and that the responsibility might not lie solely with the driver. It also considered the pedestrian's behavior before the accident and the visibility in the area. Ultimately, the Appeals Court ordered a retrial of the case.
Anna Aristotelous was not appointed as Director General in a ministry, causing confusion. This is due to legal proceedings against her as she is accused in a criminal court. Her lawyer has requested clarification on where she should report for work. Decisions regarding her availability are expected to be made next Friday. Until then, she will not be able to assume new responsibilities.
Vladimir Putin stated that Russia is ready for war if Europe desires it. He mentioned that Europeans do not have a peaceful agenda and are obstructing US peace efforts. This statement comes amid concerns about hybrid attacks from Russia in Europe. NATO Admiral Dragone indicated that the alliance is considering more aggressive strategies. Numerous incidents of attacks have been reported recently in the region.
The relatives of the missing persons from Assia express their outrage over the Turkish occupation's decision to turn the mass execution site in Ornithi into a construction project. The Assia Community Council calls for measures to protect the site from any development in order to honor the dead. The relatives are concerned about the alteration of the area and their exclusion from the site where a war crime was committed. Immediate action must be taken to stop this disrespectful act. This situation particularly affects those relatives who wish to pay their respects to their loved ones.
Significant changes are happening at the Central Prisons with the resignation of Deputy Director Konstantinos Konstantinidis. Maria Siali has been appointed as the acting director, while the director position has been advertised following the recent resignation of Anna Aristotelous. The prisons are facing multiple issues, including management suitability and the condition of inmates. The government believes these changes will help resolve the arising problems. Additionally, efforts are underway to address issues related to mobile phones and overcrowding.
The Cyprus Electricity Authority is continuing the installation of smart meters in various areas throughout Cyprus in December. This initiative aims to modernize the electricity network and improve services for consumers. Affected areas include Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, Famagusta, and Paphos. The replacement of the meter will require a temporary power outage of approximately 20 minutes. The authority informs the public about this process.
Lawyer Christos Triantafyllidis sent an urgent letter to the Cabinet requesting information about where his client, Anna Aristotelous, should report. She is awaiting appointment as General Director starting on 1/12/2025, but a specific position has not been defined yet. The letter emphasizes the need for immediate clarity as she wishes to avoid any financial penalties due to absence from duties. The availability period ends on 30/11/2025. The matter is urgent and relates to her responsibilities.
The Cabinet made appointments of new General Directors and transfers of existing officials. Georgios Papageorgiou was assigned to the Deputy Ministry of Culture, while Anna Aristotelous was not appointed due to a criminal case. There were also transfers of other officials to various ministries. Some General Directors remained in their positions. The process informed all involved stakeholders.
Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff are set to deliver Kyiv's counterproposal for ending the war in Ukraine to Putin. The U.S. government is optimistic about reaching an agreement, while Rubio seems to have been sidelined. The influence of 'informal negotiators' highlights a new approach to shaping U.S. foreign policy. The exchange of the 28-point plan is met with backlash for its concessions to Russia. Despite lacking an official role, Kushner is gaining increasing influence in diplomacy.
In Strovolos, residents are complaining about the situation caused by dog owners who fail to clean up after their pets. The municipality plans on-site inspections and has already received 48 complaints for 2025. Residents are concerned about public health and safety, as waste is found on sidewalks, in parks, and public areas. They emphasize that irresponsible dog owners create a bad image for responsible pet owners. They demand greater accountability from owners and better environmental protection.
The company managing the photo radar system benefits financially from traffic violation tickets, as the state is required to pay commissions for these tickets. During the discussion on the amended 2025 budget, lawmakers expressed concern about the additional spending included. Additionally, software will be installed at airports to identify passengers with unpaid fines. Legislators pointed out that agreement on the commission payment had not been made previously. The Ministry of Finance will provide further details in the next session of the Economic Committee.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reiterated his country's priorities in peace talks with Russia, emphasizing the importance of sovereignty and strong security guarantees. Zelensky remains firm on not conceding areas in Donbas, which Russia demands. The United States expresses optimism regarding progress in negotiations, while French President Macron stated that there is no definitive peace plan yet. The U.S. special envoy is expected to meet with Putin to discuss recent developments. The issue of Ukraine's territorial integrity remains a central point of conflict.
The Audit Service criticizes the Police for failing to secure critical infrastructure from drones due to two unsuccessful attempts to procure anti-drone systems. Despite an investment of €1.8 million, the project remains incomplete after seven years. The report points to inadequacies in staff training and flawed procurement processes, along with the exclusion of capable companies. A lack of systematic monitoring led to significant delays and failures in implementation. Ultimately, the project failed to meet national security needs.
Alon Ohel recounts the horrific conditions he faced during his captivity by Hamas. He was chained for a year and a half and suffered from starvation. He also speaks about sexual harassment from his captors. Ohel emphasizes the mental challenges he faced in order to survive. His story reveals the inhumane experiences endured by hostages.
Today, there will be weak high pressure with local rain in mountainous areas. The winds will be variable and the sea calm. Temperatures will reach 22 degrees inland and 12 degrees by the coast. Tonight, the weather will be mainly clear with increased cloudiness at times. In the coming days, thunderstorms and a slight increase in temperature are expected.
This year, over 4,500 drivers have been found driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, leading to an increase in traffic fatalities. So far, 43 people have died in road accidents, which is an increase compared to last year. There is particular concern over the high number of motorcyclist casualties and minor infractions that can result in fatal accidents. The Traffic Director stated that there will be increased checks for road safety and violations. The situation is critical and requires coordinated actions to reduce fatalities.
A fatal traffic accident occurred in Kato Paphos involving a 70-year-old man, Christakis Vryonis. He was struck by a vehicle while walking and was transported to Paphos Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The 48-year-old driver of the vehicle has been arrested and is in custody for questioning. Authorities are continuing their investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident. This tragedy adds to the growing concerns about road safety.
The Commissioner of Administration, Maria Stylianou-Lottidi, intervened regarding the decision for the education of two children in a Special Unit. The parents expressed their concerns and protested outside the Ministry of Education. Solutions were proposed for the children's support to integrate into the general school environment. The Ministry of Education is required to commit in writing to their individualized support. Necessary procedures will commence once the children return to school.
Anita Dimitriou wants DISY to remain a leading force in the parliamentary elections, aiming for percentages close to those of the euro elections. She acknowledges the challenges the party faces due to inward-looking issues. In a meeting with journalists, she emphasized the need for substantial political dialogue and attention to the proposals of candidates. DISY has scheduled a meeting of the Supreme Council to approve its electoral list. The situation remains unpredictable, with a goal to secure the lead.
The Cypriot Presidency of the European Union is expected to bolster efforts regarding the Cyprus issue, as stated by Roberta Metsola and Nikos Christodoulides. Metsola remarked that the Presidency could serve as an incentive for negotiations. Christodoulides invited Erdogan and Fidan to participate in upcoming meetings in Cyprus. Cyprus can count on Europe for a unified sovereign state. The goals of the Cypriot Presidency include strengthening the EU's strategic autonomy.
Patients and nurses have reported a public doctor for bad behavior and insufficient cooperation. The Health Services Organization has initiated a disciplinary investigation and received testimonies from staff and community leaders. The doctor disputes the allegations, claiming that delays are due to poor communication. Despite the complaints, the disciplinary investigation is ongoing, and results are awaited. The Organization assures that personal doctors adhere to its regulations.
The Commissioner for Administration and Human Rights, Maria Styliadou Lottidi, is investigating a complaint from an employee of the Limassol District Authority, who claims he was overlooked for a promotion due to his disability. The employee accuses the organization of discrimination and cites national and international legislation that protects the rights of persons with disabilities. The commissioner has requested a response from the organization within four weeks. The employee's claims will be considered in the proceedings, emphasizing the importance of upholding rights. This issue raises concerns as it highlights the necessity of adhering to laws regarding workplace equality.
The recent summit meeting between Justice Minister Marios Harchiotis and the leadership of the Cypriot Police focused on combating organized crime. Greek Minister of Citizen Protection Michalis Chrysochoidis, along with other Greek Police officials, will also participate in the meeting. The possibility of establishing a department within the Cypriot Police similar to the Organized Crime Unit in Greece was discussed. The Organized Crime Unit has expertise in dismantling criminal organizations and investigating serious crimes. This collaboration aims to enhance security and combat crime in Cyprus.