Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that he is ready to hold elections within the next two to three months. He requested security guarantees from the U.S. and European partners during the electoral process. This announcement comes at a time when the country is still in a state of war. Zelensky emphasized the need for legislative changes to facilitate the electoral process under current conditions. He is determined to proceed with the elections if the necessary security is assured.
The draw for the 4th call of the Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme recently took place, revealing 520 beneficiaries who will receive grants for the purchase of electric vehicles. The grants range from €9,000 to €20,000, depending on the vehicle category. Beneficiaries will be notified electronically about their preliminary approval. Applicants must have settled any debts to maintain their eligibility. The list of alternates will be published in a subsequent announcement.
The government plans to raise the tax-free income to €22,000, along with changes to tax bills. Increases are expected in the annual income thresholds for tax deductions based on the number of children. For two children, the limit is €100,000; for three or four children, it rises to €150,000; and for more than four children, it reaches €200,000. The deduction for one child remains €1,000, while it increases for more children. Additionally, the stamp duty will be abolished.
The Appeals Court overturned a lower court's ruling and sentenced a 25-year-old to three years in prison for sexually abusing a minor. The accused was initially acquitted, but the Attorney General's appeal led to a re-examination of the case. The lower court had prioritized the accused's clean criminal record and considered the incident isolated. The 25-year-old assaulted the victim during a move while the child's mother was away. The Appeals Court's decision emphasizes the need for stricter penalties in such cases.
The storm warning in Cyprus has been upgraded to orange due to worsening weather from the low pressure system Byron. The warning is in effect from the evening until the morning. Rain and isolated storms are expected, with a chance of hail. Temperatures will be low, reaching 3 degrees in the mountains and 10 degrees inland. On a positive note, temperatures are expected to return to normal average levels by Thursday.
MP Irini Charalambidou raises serious questions about the appointment of Feridun Sinirlioğlu to the OSCE and its implications for Cyprus's candidacy for the presidency in 2027. Turkey does not accept Cyprus's presidency, and the diplomatic maneuvers of Greece and Turkey may have sidelined Cyprus. Charalambidou seeks explanations regarding this strategy and what political benefit it has brought to Cyprus. There is concern over the increasing Turkish presence in the OSCE, highlighting Cyprus's weakened position. Other countries, such as Belarus, also oppose Cyprus's candidacy.
Photos of the Auditor General Andreas Papacostas wearing a wig and glasses have sparked reactions. The Auditor General participated in an on-site inspection of buses to understand citizens' experiences. The Cyber Crime Unit is investigating the leak of the photos. The representative of the Audit Office confirmed that the aim of the operation is to improve the quality of public transport. The photos have led to significant public discussion.
A 14-year-old from Chalandri reported being attacked with a knife by two minors after a virtual date. The attackers injured him three times, causing serious wounds. The boy sought help at a café after the incident. Currently, the assailants remain unidentified and are being sought by the police. The event has raised concern within the local community.
The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, announced the construction of 500 housing units on state land with a total expenditure of €70 million. The new homes will be offered at affordable rent to families and individuals, focusing on the youth. Additionally, the Minister of Interior introduced a new plan for Collective Accommodation Units aimed at workers in industry, tourism, and commerce. Housing policies are a top government priority, with a focus on creating affordable housing. Housing investments have exceeded €300 million over the past three years.
The Paphos region experienced the heaviest rainfall from the weather system BYRON, with P polis Chrysochous recording daily rainfall of 113.1mm. This amount is the second highest for December since 1916. Cyprus saw extensive and intense rainfall from December 5 to 7, 2025. Several stations recorded significant rain amounts, enhancing the island's hydrological conditions. Overall, this event is considered extreme compared to the regional climatic averages.
The private criminal case of Thanassis Nikolaou has begun with preliminary objections from the defendants' lawyers. There was an objection concerning bias regarding prosecutor Savvas Matsas, as the lawyers argue that the indictment is invalid. It is noted that Mr. Matsas has made public statements that could influence the case. The lawyers are concerned that the process will not be fair without an independent prosecutor. The case progresses amid concerns about fairness and justice in the trial.
A 32-year-old woman from Israel, Linoy Amsalem, was saved by a liver transplant transported from Cyprus. The procedure was carried out through a collaboration between medical teams from both countries, and the operation was successful. Amsalem, who had suffered from liver cirrhosis, expressed her hope of having children after her recovery. She emphasized the importance of registering as an organ donor. Her experience changed her perspective on organ donation and its critical role in saving lives.
Five bus companies are claiming over €59 million from the government for the period 2010-2020 due to disagreements about government contributions. The Department of Road Transport (TOM) faces issues in estimating its revenues, with significant discrepancies found between two accounting systems. According to the Audit Office's report, TOM's controls have been insufficient. The legal cases are still in the early stages. There is uncertainty regarding TOM's total liabilities to the bus operators.
Traffic accidents during work hours account for 8% of road deaths in Cyprus, averaging three deaths per year. The 49th report from the ETSC reviews road safety across 27 EU member states. The fatalities primarily involve couriers and truck drivers. Cyprus lacks a unified definition for workplace-related road collisions. ETSC suggests the need for establishing a national definition and improved monitoring of accidents.
The case involves a house that remained an obstacle on Nicosia's Victory Avenue for over 60 years. Despite numerous efforts by the government to expropriate the property, the process was delayed due to legal appeals and negotiations. Ultimately, the issue was resolved recently, and the avenue now features a standard shape with two lanes in each direction. The story highlights the challenges of public administration and the importance of effectively resolving such issues. There is still a need for asphalt paving to complete the works.
The Meteorological Department has issued a new yellow warning for heavy rainfall, storms, and possible hail that will affect the island. The warning is in effect from Tuesday morning until Wednesday morning. Winds are expected to be moderate to strong, and the sea will be slightly rough. Temperatures will range from 8 to 20 degrees, depending on the area. The forecast indicates that rain and storms will continue over the coming days.
In Limassol, a 43-year-old woman and her toddler were struck by a scooter rider while crossing a pedestrian crosswalk. The toddler suffered a severe head injury and is hospitalized in serious but stable condition. The scooter rider fled the scene of the incident. The police are conducting investigations to locate the rider and are asking anyone with information to come forward. The incident occurred on Monday afternoon.
In Parliament, clarifications were given regarding the payment of the company managing the photo enforcement system. The company is not paid based on fines but through a contract for the hours of camera operation. Fixed cameras operate 24 hours a day, while mobile ones operate 8 hours. The Police received approval to implement the photoradar list only at checkpoints, costing €250,000. Additionally, it was explained that the Police have the authority to proceed without changes to the legislation.
The case of the inmate's death in Central Prisons remains mysterious as the autopsy did not reveal the cause of death. The 30-year-old suspect admitted to hitting the 35-year-old victim with only one punch. The police are investigating the circumstances of the incident, and toxicology results are pending. Officials state that there seems to be no premeditation or extreme violence involved. The investigation continues, and surveillance footage will also be reviewed.
Nikos Christodoulides outlined his government's political direction, highlighting social liberalism as a key focus. The government aims for targeted social interventions, bold reforms, and strengthening of defense. A goal is to revive negotiations for the liberation and reunification of Cyprus. Christodoulides emphasized the need for a robust economy that promotes social development and citizen security. The government seeks to create a governance program that addresses today's challenges.
The PODES is preparing to take action regarding the new teacher evaluation system. They are sending letters to the Minister of Education and the education committee, expressing concerns about proposed amendments. A significant issue is the involvement of school principals in teacher evaluations, which they wish to negotiate. The PODES warns of a potential crisis if no agreement is reached. At the same time, they are updating teachers about changes made to the initial bill.
Nexans has announced the cancellation of tenders for the construction of the Great Sea Interconnector due to a decision by the governments of Cyprus and Greece to review the project's technical and economic studies. The company has informed interested bidders that a reevaluation of the project is necessary before moving forward with the work. Despite previous assurances from the Nexans CEO about the project's continuation, the situation appears to have changed. There has been no public response from the company regarding the governments' decision. Nexans may seek partners again once a new schedule is prepared.
The care package for elderly people includes mobile health units and digital support, as well as aid for home enhancements. The aim is to ensure that elderly individuals can remain in their homes with dignity and safety. The need for immediate policy decisions from the government is emphasized. The proposals are based on real needs and the best practices of other EU countries. The package seeks to alleviate the difficulties faced by the elderly, especially in remote areas.
The Ministry of Finance has accepted changes to the tax reform, particularly concerning the tax-free amount and tax reliefs. An increase in the tax-free threshold from €20,500 to between €21,000 and €21,500 is anticipated. The income ceilings are also expected to rise for tax deductions based on family income. The proposal includes deductions for children and students, as well as for green investments. The Minister of Finance emphasized that while he is open to changes, the core principles of the reform should not be drastically altered.