The Athens Court of Appeals has ruled on the compensations for Frosso Kyriakou and Mina Arnaouti, who were passengers in Pantelis Pantelidis's car during the fatal accident. Frosso will receive 9,000 euros and Mina will get 39,000 euros, significantly less than what they requested. The court recognized that Pantelidis was the driver but also attributed 50% shared responsibility to the women. Additionally, the Pantelidis family's lawsuit was dismissed. This ruling effectively closes the case.
The Municipality of Strovolos takes a stance on the commemorative monument for paratroopers, which includes names of individuals who participated in the 1974 coup. It states that the erection of marble inscriptions is illegal and has not received the necessary permits. The municipality calls on the District Administration Organization to take legal action to remove the inscriptions. They did not participate in the monument's unveiling and do not have the authority to enforce actions to rectify this illegality. This issue was also discussed in the municipality's council meeting.
The AHC Supply announced the launch of the new subsidy scheme 'AHC+' to support the transition to cleaner and more efficient energy models. The program provides financial assistance for the replacement of LED lighting and old air conditioning units, targeting businesses, Local Authorities, and vulnerable customers. Funding can cover costs up to €470 per device. Applications can be submitted online until 2028 or until the available funds are exhausted. The scheme is part of a strategy to enhance energy efficiency and reduce the environmental footprint.
The District Court of Nicosia granted a second chance to a mother who hit her daughter. Although she was sentenced to three months in prison, her sentence was suspended for three years. The judge emphasized the need to break the cycle of domestic violence and to restore the mother-child relationship. Despite the seriousness of the act, the mother appears to have shown remorse. The court also expressed concerns about the psychological state of the defendant.
In Sudan, at least 19 women reported being gang-raped while trying to escape from the city of El Fasher during an attack by paramilitary forces. Two of these women were pregnant. The situation in Sudan has escalated, with hundreds of thousands affected by the civil war that erupted in April 2023. International organizations condemn the situation and warn of the resulting humanitarian crises. Survivors describe horrific crimes including murders and rapes.
A 5.3 magnitude earthquake occurred at 12:21 PM in the Antalya region of Turkey, causing concern among the residents. The epicenter was located off the southern coast, with a focal depth estimated at 85-95 kilometers. The quake was felt as far as Cyprus and other areas in the eastern Mediterranean. Authorities have reported no significant damages so far. The situation is being monitored by local agencies.
The case regarding the death of soldier Thanasis Nikolaou is back in the Limassol District Court with five defendants facing 39 charges. The defendants will respond to a lengthy indictment, while their lawyers are requesting access to the extensive evidence before proceeding. Charges include neglect of duty and several serious allegations, particularly against the forensic doctor Panikos Stavrianos. The process is expected to be complex, with lawyers seeking clarifications and possible delays. Eighteen witnesses are involved in the case, with a potential increase expected.
Every year, about 80 to 100 turtles are found dead along the coasts of Cyprus. Most deaths occur from injuries caused by boats during the summer months. Other causes include pathological issues and accidental bycatch in nets. Nevertheless, the turtle population seems to be recovering in recent years. A rehabilitation center for sea turtles is operating in Cyprus, where three turtles are currently recovering.
Two legislative proposals are being submitted to protect drivers over 70 from high insurance premiums. The first proposal prohibits direct or indirect discrimination and forbids increasing premiums based solely on age. The second proposal requires insurance companies to provide documented justifications for refusing to issue contracts. Violations could lead to fines of up to €100,000. Concerns have been raised about potential discrimination against other age groups.
From January to November 2025, vehicle registrations in Cyprus increased by 4.5%. The largest growth was seen in electric and hybrid cars, with hybrids reaching 44.3%. New passenger cars accounted for 36.7% of registrations, and motorcycles over 50cc also experienced an increase. The rental car market showed significant improvement, growing by 22.4%. Overall, trends indicate a shift towards more environmentally friendly vehicles.
Donald Trump's new security strategy indicates that Europe must take care of its own defense. The U.S. no longer sees Europe as a priority and is focusing mainly on competition with China. Although the Russian invasion of Ukraine has affected the European perspective, the American withdrawal stems from a broader geopolitical strategy. Europeans seem to be in denial about this change. The article highlights the new challenges Europe faces as U.S. guarantees diminish.
A fire that broke out in three luxury vehicles at a car wash in Limassol is attributed to arson. Two of the vehicles belonged to clients of the Russian owner of the car wash, while the third was also a luxury car. Authorities are conducting investigations, including collecting footage from surveillance cameras. There are suspicions that this attack is linked to previous arson incidents. This situation raises concerns regarding business activities in Limassol.
Today, Marios Harchiotis hands over the Ministry of Justice to Konstantinos Fytiris, who becomes the new minister. In his statements, Harchiotis urged Fytiris to listen to criticism and stay focused on the government's goals. He highlighted improvements made in prisons and public safety, including increased capacity and changes to the court structure. Successes in combating organized crime and drug-related issues were noted. Fytiris hails from Paralimni and takes office with aims for reforms.
Mihalis Damianou has taken over as the Minister of Energy, Commerce, and Industry, succeeding George Papanastasiou. Papanastasiou expressed gratitude to the ministry staff and wished success to Damianou, highlighting the challenges ahead. The new minister has a solid legal background and has worked in international law firms. Damianou, with experience in energy matters, assumes responsibility during a crucial time for the ministry. The swearing-in ceremony for the new ministers was conducted in line with the President's decisions.
The handover ceremony at the Ministry of Social Welfare is taking place, with Marilena Evangelou passing her duties to Klea Chatzistefanou Papaellina. Ms. Evangelou expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to lead a challenging portfolio and highlighted the outcomes of her work. She mentioned significant achievements, such as the restructuring of the Ministry and the promotion of the Neighborhood Social Worker institution. The new Deputy Minister has a rich academic and volunteer background, particularly focused on sports and education. The prospects for the Ministry appear positive with new interventions being planned.
Marinos Mousiouttas is taking over as Minister of Labor and Social Insurance from Yiannis Panayiotou. During the handover, Panayiotou expressed his dedication to his duties and highlighted achievements such as reducing unemployment from 6.6% to 4.1%. Mousiouttas has an extensive background with experience in various ministries and public organizations. The changes in the Cabinet are part of a recent government reshuffle. The new ministers officially start their duties today.
Today marks the handover at the Ministry of Health, with Michalis Damianou passing the responsibilities to Neofytos Charalambidis. Damianou thanked his colleagues and spoke about the challenges and reforms achieved during his term. The new Minister of Health, Neofytos Charalambidis, has a strong academic and political background. He announced plans for new health initiatives, including screenings for cancers and autism. These changes signify a new era at the ministry aimed at improving healthcare services.
In a Nicosia prison, a 30-year-old Greek Cypriot inmate has been arrested for the murder of a 35-year-old Egyptian inmate. The killing occurred after a heated argument in the victim's cell. The suspect reportedly sprayed the victim with antiseptic before striking him. After intervention by guards, the victim collapsed and was later found dead in the hospital. The suspect is being held for eight days.
The new members of the Cabinet will begin their duties on Monday. The swearing-in ceremony for the five new Ministers will take place in the morning at the Presidential Palace. The Ministers are Michalis Damienou (Energy), Marinos Musiouttas (Labor), Konstantinos Fityris (Justice), Neofytos Charalampidis (Health), and Klea Chatzistefanou Papaellina (Social Welfare). Subsequently, the handover ceremonies for the Ministries will occur. The President of the Republic will be present at both events.
Margarita, the only daughter of Mikis Theodorakis, opens the doors of her father's house in Vrachati, Corinth, where he spent many years of his life. This house, purchased in 1964, was the ultimate refuge for the composer and creator of many great musical works. She recalls her father's moments and memories, describing his office, piano, and treasured belongings. Her return to these memories evokes feelings of admiration and nostalgia. Her interview sheds light on Mikis Theodorakis's personal and artistic legacy.
Today's weather will be mostly cloudy with local rain and possible storms, which may include hail. Temperatures will range around 18 degrees inland and 19 along the coast. In the evening, rain and storms are expected again, especially in coastal areas. Higher peaks of Troodos may experience sleet or snow. The temperature will drop to around 10 degrees inland and will remain slightly below normal for this time of year.
The EDEK party is not currently planning to leave the government, as there was no proposal for withdrawal during the recent meeting of the Political Bureau. Instead, a decision was made to request a meeting between the party leadership and the President of the Republic to discuss the party's concerns regarding their relationship. Reports indicate that EDEK's concerns are related to tax reform and the Cypriot issue. It is assessed that the party's influence has decreased due to the President's shift towards other parties. Despite this dissatisfaction, the option of EDEK leaving the government is not being considered at this time.
Nikos Christodoulides has reshaped his government to strengthen the center-right and pursue political collaboration. The new cabinet includes a greater presence of DIKO and DIPA while maintaining balance with DISY. The success of the center-right depends on the cooperation among these parties and their parliamentary strength. There are indications that their political moves will encompass shared positions on economic and foreign affairs. The upcoming presidential elections add pressure to the nature of this collaboration.
The police arrested a 30-year-old Greek Cypriot convict in connection with the murder of a 35-year-old foreign inmate in Central Prisons. The murder occurred following a dispute, and the suspect is set to appear in court for a custody order. The deceased, who was serving a 17-year sentence for murder, collapsed after the incident and was taken to the hospital. An autopsy will determine the cause of death. Evidence from the prison's CCTV footage has already been handed over to the police.
In Europe, a resolution was approved to protect children and teenagers online, proposing a minimum age limit of 16 for social media usage. Some countries already have strict regulations with parental consent. In Cyprus, a digital age verification solution is being planned. The European verification mechanism will be done through mobile phones and will include personal data protection. The Deputy Ministry is preparing the details for implementing this solution at the national level.
Marinos Mousiouttas has taken on his duties as the new Minister of Labor and must immediately address the renewal of the minimum wage. This legacy is significant, as many previous ministers have played a crucial role in the Ministry of Labor. There are major discussions regarding the determination of the minimum wage, involving trade unions and employers. The gross minimum monthly wage in Cyprus has been set at 1,000 euros starting January 1, 2024, with references to reduced amounts for workers who have not completed six months of full-time employment. A decision must be reached by the end of the month.
The European Commission is initiating consultations with social partners regarding a law to improve job quality in the EU. It highlights that nearly one in five Europeans is employed in low-quality jobs. The European Trade Union Confederation is advocating for better wages and working conditions to reduce poverty and enhance economic stability. The roadmap includes measures to create and maintain quality jobs. There is a consensus on the importance of considering workers' needs in policy-making.
The Council and the European Parliament have reached an agreement to revise the directive on organized travel to better protect travelers. This legislation clarifies cancellation terms and travelers' rights to information and refunds in cases of organizer bankruptcy. Member states will have 28 months to adapt to the new rules, plus an additional 6 months to implement them. Travelers will be able to cancel without penalty in exceptional circumstances. However, an official travel warning alone will not suffice for a refund after a trip cancellation.
The company that failed to deliver on a contract for anti-drone systems is still free to participate in public tenders. Currently, it is pursuing a new contract related to the creation of communication infrastructure. The Police, responsible for the contract, has not submitted a report to the Exclusion Committee despite its obligations. The regulatory framework requires such a report to be submitted, but it hasn't happened so far. This situation raises concerns about transparency and the use of public funds.