Ukraine has sent a revised peace plan of 20 points to the United States. President Zelensky described this plan as fundamental for negotiations. The initial US plan had 28 points, which were seen as reflecting Russia's objectives. Ukraine sought to modify key issues such as territorial matters and security guarantees. Additionally, Zelensky announced the drafting of two other documents regarding security guarantees and economic reconstruction.
The Chief of Police has changed the head of the Internal Audit Service and reassigned police officers to accompany new ministers. Marinos Kyriakidis was appointed as the assistant police director in Paphos. Kyriakos Lagou took over as the new head of the Internal Audit Service. Several other officers were transferred to the escort services of the new Ministers of Justice and Health. These changes are related to a restructuring of the police leadership.
The Health Ministry of Cyprus is aware of a sperm donor with a genetic mutation that increases the risk of cancer. This donor has fathered at least 197 children across Europe, but none have been born in Cyprus. The issue has been examined by the Council of Medically Assisted Reproduction. The donor was temporarily excluded in 2020 and has now been permanently banned by the European Sperm Bank. There are concerns regarding the health of the children conceived through this donor.
The Cabinet has decided to provide emergency support to professional farmers due to prolonged drought, which has led to increased electricity costs. Farmers will receive €1,000,000 to subsidize part of their electricity consumption from July 2024 to August 2025. This support aims to alleviate financial pressures and ensure the sustainability of agricultural activities. Payments will be processed through the Cyprus Electricity Authority, and details will be determined by the Ministry. This intervention is essential to support agriculture in the country.
The recent agreement between DISY, DIKO, and DIPA with the Minister of Finance has caused turmoil in the Parliamentary Economic Committee. AKEL accuses the ruling parties of organizing secret meetings to prevent wealth taxation. The Greens expressed dissatisfaction, claiming that their proposals were overlooked. Conversely, members of the ruling parties defended the dialogue process, emphasizing its importance. EDEK expressed satisfaction with the agreement, while political tensions continue to escalate.
Donald Trump has been ranked at the top of Politico's list of the 28 most powerful people in European politics for 2025. Europe is facing an unpredictable and dominant force, with the relationship being shaped by negotiation. In the top five, he is followed by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Marine Le Pen, and Vladimir Putin. The list includes key political and economic leaders deemed crucial for the European political landscape. The ranking highlights the influence of these figures on the shaping of Europe.
The Paphos District Court has ordered that the 58-year-old suspect in the murder of 26-year-old Alexandros Antoniou remain in custody until his trial in 2026. There is substantial evidence, including security camera footage of the attack and threatening messages sent by the victim to the suspect's daughter. The police have also gathered testimonies indicating that there was an argument between the suspect and the victim. The young man's death was caused by a stabbing in the carotid artery. The court emphasized the seriousness of the charges and the likelihood that the suspect could abscond if released.
The severe weather from Byron is causing significant problems in Cyprus, with many trees falling and flooding occurring. Over 10 trees were uprooted due to strong winds. The Fire Service responded to numerous calls for help in the Larnaca and Famagusta areas. Additionally, cypress trees up to 2.5 meters tall were removed, and rainwater was pumped out from homes. The situation is concerning, and authorities are working to address the damage.
A sperm donor with a genetic mutation that increases cancer risk has fathered at least 197 children across Europe, including in Cyprus. This mutation affects the TP53 gene, which is vital for preventing cancer. Children born from this donor face a high risk of developing cancer throughout their lives. The European Sperm Bank, which managed the donations, expressed condolences to the affected families. Doctors have raised concerns about the health of these children and emphasized the need for regular medical monitoring.
The spokesperson for the Audit Office stated that all staff had access to the photos of the Auditor General, Andreas Papakonstantinou, who was in disguise. She expressed concerns about the intentions behind the leak of the photo, emphasizing that it was not classified. The Office believes that the image does not harm the institution. The Auditor General undertook a planned inspection to obtain genuine information from citizens. The leak is currently under investigation by the Police.
In the early hours, a homemade explosive device exploded under the vehicle of a Greek Cypriot in Akrotiri. The owner promptly notified the police, and fortunately, no injuries were reported. The bomb was placed beneath the vehicle. Police forces and bomb disposal experts are on site conducting investigations. The area has been cordoned off for the investigations to take place.
The FDA is investigating potential deaths related to COVID-19 vaccines. This investigation was confirmed by a spokesperson for Trump’s health department amid concerns about the politicization of healthcare. Despite rare serious side effects, most studies indicate that the vaccines are safe and effective. The investigation initially focused on child deaths, sparking significant backlash. Former FDA officials have warned about the need for caution regarding such claims.
An Israeli yacht with five passengers has gone missing while trying to reach Cyprus during bad weather. Authorities in Israel and the Cypriot Coast Guard are on alert regarding the fate of the vessel. Communication with the yacht was lost shortly before its arrival. The Byron weather system is affecting the area with heavy rainfall and strong winds. Authorities are investigating why the yacht was allowed to depart considering the dangerous weather conditions.
A man spent 7.5 years in prison for murder and robbery, but the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) determined that his trial was unfair. However, he was awarded only €10,000 in compensation and not for his imprisonment. The Supreme Court ruled that the imprisonment was legal, even though the trial was deemed unjust. The violation of his right to a fair trial was acknowledged, but the initial conviction was not overturned. The man appealed for further compensation, but the court rejected his appeal.
The Meteorology Department issued a new yellow warning for storms and hail, valid from 05:00 to 16:00 on December 10. Rain and isolated storms are expected mainly in the southern and eastern areas, with northern regions possibly affected as well. Rainfall intensity is expected to range from 35 to 55 millimeters per hour. Winds will be moderate, with local intensities of 5 to 6 Beaufort. In the following days, the weather will be partly cloudy with possible rain or storms.
Irene Charalambidou is closing the door on DIKO, stating she cannot join a party supporting Christodoulides' government. Although she did not directly reveal her intentions, she emphasized waiting for the public's response regarding her political future. She plans to assess her options in the near future, considering both personal and political circumstances. While there is a possibility of her joining Almah, she confirmed that she would make her decisions by May. Her relationship with the AKEL leadership remains tense.
Four months after a fatal accident on Larnaca Avenue, no measures have been taken to improve road safety. Local residents express concern and protests regarding the lack of action. The Mayor of Nicosia and the Deputy Mayor of Aglandjia have requested proposals from the police to enhance the situation. Soon a new traffic light regulation will be implemented. Nevertheless, the sense of fear remains prevalent among residents.
Nexans, the French company constructing the Greece-Cyprus interconnection cable, stated that it continues the project, despite the cancellation of investment processes that are out of its control. They mentioned that significant payments have been made and that there is a possibility of a new tender in the future. However, the seabed surveys necessary for the project have not been conducted. ADMHEE, responsible for overseeing the project, reported spending about 300 million euros so far. The total value of the contract is 1.43 billion euros.
The Ministry of Health has given a deadline to occupational therapists until January 9 to submit proposals for their integration into the General Health System (GeSY). Organized patients are expressing frustration over the six-year failure to reach an agreement, forcing many families to pay out of pocket for therapy services. The Cyprus Patients' Federation is urging professionals and the Health Insurance Organization to finally find a solution. The ministry's letter remains unanswered, highlighting the urgent need for these services. A meeting invitation has been extended for finalizing the issue.
The Cypriot Government introduced a new program for housing employees through the construction of collective accommodation units. The plan aims to enhance the living conditions of workers and the functioning of businesses. Units can be built in commercial zones with reduced square footage compared to other residential developments. Guidelines will be issued to define minimum standards for these units. The objective is to balance supply and demand in the housing market.
The OELMEK is ready to take strong measures in response to the new teacher evaluation bill. Following the POED's reaction, which indicated readiness for action, OELMEK has also expressed disagreement with changes, such as the participation of deputy principals in the evaluation process. The Minister of Education agrees with OELMEK's opposition regarding this issue. OELMEK will evaluate the final version of the bill before taking any action. The discussion in Parliament is expected to be concluded soon.
The government and its coalition partners reached an agreement on a new tax reform, described as a win-win situation. This reform includes an increase in the tax-free allowance and the broadening of criteria for tax relief, benefiting many families. The negotiations started on Monday and continued until yesterday. Politicians gain political advantages ahead of elections by presenting the reform as their own initiative. The changes will come into effect on January 1, 2026.