The Democratic Oversight Committee of the U.S. House of Representatives released photographs related to Jeffrey Epstein, revealing new details about the case. The photos include Noam Chomsky and Bill Gates. Additionally, there are messages referring to the 'sending of girls.' The case has sparked political turmoil and intense public interest. Developments raise questions about the relationships of public figures with the convicted financier.
The case involving a 58-year-old sergeant accused in the death of 15-year-old Stylianos has been referred to another court. Stylianos tragically died by suicide in 2019, and there are two other related cases. Having all parties before the same judge could create legal complications. The judge decided that the sergeant's case should be handled by a different court, with the next appearance set for December 22.
Visual artist George Gabriel reports that his home was targeted in an attack using explosives. The attack occurred on Thursday while he was inside with his family. Fortunately, there were no injuries, only damage to the balcony. Gabriel expressed his terror over the incident but noted that everyone is safe. The police are conducting investigations at the site.
Iranian fugitive Behdad Jafari, wanted for appropriating Greek-Cypriot land, returned to occupied territories after a French court dismissed the extradition request from the Republic of Cyprus. This decision raises concerns among Cypriot authorities, as the French court did not adequately assess the evidence presented. The Republic of Cyprus plans to appeal the ruling, which carries significant political implications. Jafari has developed tourist units on land belonging to refugees. His return has been extensively reported in the occupied areas.
The Ministry of Transport announced the payment of €100 to eligible recipients of support measures due to the airbag recall. Eligible beneficiaries include low pensioners, single-parent and large families, as well as owners of disabled vehicles. The payment took place on December 18, 2025, for vehicles immobilized since October 31, 2025. The first category of recipients received the amounts in their accounts, while payments for disabled vehicle owners are expected in the coming days. Additional payments are upcoming, along with free tickets for public transport.
The renewal process for vehicle registration licenses starts on January 7, 2026. The deadline for renewal is March 11, 2026. Licenses can be renewed for periods of 3, 6, 9, or 12 months, with an additional fee for late renewals. A certificate of suitability and insurance are required for renewal. The Department of Road Transport advises citizens to complete their renewals early to avoid complications.
The OELMEK has decided to continue and escalate its measures regarding the new teacher evaluation system, including potential strike actions. During today's General Conference, the leadership was authorized to take further actions in light of the bill set to be voted on December 22, 2025. The resolution expresses concerns over the legislative process and weaknesses in the bill, which is seen as problematic. It highlights a lack of dialogue, criteria, and objectivity amid coercive circumstances from the government. OELMEK emphasizes that the educational community opposes many of the bill's provisions.
A skeleton from the Roman period, once claimed to be the 'first Black Briton' and linked to Cypriot origin, was actually from southern England. New DNA sequencing technology revealed that the woman likely had blue eyes and light-colored hair. The previous estimation of her being of African descent has changed, as strong genetic similarities with individuals from rural areas of Britain were found. The plaque commemorating her as 'the first Black Briton' was removed due to a lack of clear evidence. Scientists emphasize the importance of science in understanding identity.
The Court of Appeals overturned the decision of the District Court of Limassol regarding the detention of a 51-year-old accused of the murder of Stavros Dimosthenous. The accused has been released under conditions and is required to appear before the Criminal Court in January 2026. His lawyer argued that there was no risk of flight, as the client complied with police summons. The Court of Appeals found that the 51-year-old's behavior did not indicate tendencies of fleeing. The accused must adhere to specific restrictions during his release.
Defense Minister Vasilis Palmas discussed the possibility of forming a military axis with Greece and Israel to counter Turkey's military presence. This idea has not been officially discussed, as it would require a political decision from the three countries. Cyprus's relations with Greece and Israel are at their strongest level. Concurrently, upgrades to naval and air bases in Cyprus are progressing, with active collaboration from the US and France. These decisions enhance the strategic position of the Republic of Cyprus in the region.
The Permanent Criminal Court of Limassol sentenced a 36-year-old man to 7 years in prison for 16 counts of child sexual abuse. The offenses involved the minor daughter of his partner. The mother of the minor was also fined €5,000 for interfering with judicial proceedings and failing to report suspicion. The court emphasized the severity of sexual offenses, especially when the victim is a child. Despite strict penalties, there is an increase in such crimes in society.
The Consumer Protection Service urges consumers to be careful during the holiday shopping season. It recommends using the e-kalathi for price comparison and product information. The agency emphasizes the importance of monitoring prices to ensure better choices for family budgets. The e-kalathi serves as a useful tool for recording and comparing prices. The goal is for consumers to make more cost-effective and well-informed purchases.
The arrest of a 12-year-old in Sweden for involvement in a murder has raised serious concerns about escalating gang violence. The minor reportedly shot a 21-year-old by mistake, targeting someone else. The prosecutor has decided to initiate special proceedings due to the case's seriousness. Authorities warn about the increasing recruitment of minors into criminal networks, reigniting discussion about gang violence in the country. Incidents of crimes involving minors appear to be on the rise, worrying officials and experts.
At Vergina High School in Larnaca, a group of students is displaying Nazi symbols and salutes, raising concern in the community. The students have created social media accounts promoting Nazi material and have vandalized school property with swastikas. Parents are condemning this behavior and are calling for intervention from the Ministry of Education. They stress that such ideologies of hate have no place in schools. The situation requires immediate attention and action.
The police in Limassol are concerned after an arson attack on the liquor store of a well-known businessman. The incident occurred early Thursday morning, with an unknown individual setting fire to the entrance of the shop. Fortunately, the fire was quickly extinguished and there were no injuries. Material damage was caused to the facade of the store. The police are continuing their investigation to identify the perpetrator.
Five individuals have appeared before the Nicosia Court regarding the discovery of 14 mobile phones and 12 chargers found inside a fridge intended for a life prisoner. The life prisoner, Marios Christodoulou, previously convicted of murder, was among the accused. The case involves conspiracy and attempts to smuggle prohibited items into prison. The proceedings were postponed due to the incomplete delivery of evidence. The case is set to be reviewed again in February 2026.
Andreas Theofanous is expected to be announced as a candidate collaborating with the Green Party. His participation is seen as a significant addition to the party's roster. Meanwhile, former MP George Varnava announced his support for DIKO, clarifying he will not run for office. He attributes his decision to his lack of acceptance by EDEK. Developments within the Green Party continue actively with new announcements anticipated.
A new Directorate for combating organized crime is being established in Cyprus, modeled after the Greek FBI. This Directorate will report directly to the Chief of Police and will merge services dealing with drugs and information to improve their coordination. Operating in secrecy, the aim is to achieve better results in fighting crime. However, it will face challenges due to the lack of legislative framework for monitoring phone conversations. This effort is part of a broader strategy to strengthen security in Cyprus.
President Christodoulides will attend the European Council with evidence of violations of sanctions against Russia, involving Turkey. He plans to address issues concerning Ukraine and its funding needs for 2026-2027. Hungary has expressed disagreement regarding the choice of common borrowing. There is a need for united support for Ukraine and pressure on Russia to end its attacks. The topic of EU enlargement and relations with Turkey are also expected to be discussed.
Today, there is expected to be turmoil in the Parliamentary Economic Committee due to new law proposals submitted by parties for tax reform. AKEL is reintroducing eleven proposals aimed mainly at wealth taxation and tax relief for households. Among these proposals is a property tax for properties valued over €3 million and a reduction in VAT for certain services. However, the government does not seem to agree with these proposals, while the Ministry of Finance will propose different measures. Discussions on tax reform are expected to intensify.
The Parliament approved 31 amendments regarding the 2026 budget, with only 10.2 million euros cut from a total budget of 13.7 billion. The cuts are almost negligible, representing just 0.078% of the budget. There was also controversy surrounding the Cyprus-Greece electrical interconnection (GSI), with some MPs differing from their party's official stance. Some parties faced pressure to reconsider their positions amid local community reactions. The final vote on certain funding was decided by just one vote.
Today, farmers in Cyprus are participating in a pan-European protest against the EU's agricultural policy, gathering tractors in Nicosia. They oppose EU proposals that threaten the support and sustainability of the primary sector. Farmers demand the maintenance of the Common Agricultural Policy without cuts and emphasize the importance of equality among member states. During the protest, memoranda will be submitted to officials in Cyprus and the EU. The protesters express their determination to remain until their demands are met.