President Zelensky announced a new peace ceasefire plan comprising 20 points during a press conference. This proposal indicates a significant shift in Ukraine's stance, including the potential withdrawal of troops from eastern areas. However, Russia has not shown willingness to accept the conditions proposed by Kyiv. Zelensky stated that the ball is now in Russia's court and is awaiting a response. Significant differences remain between the two countries, particularly concerning control over Donetsk.
Maria Pappa, a flight attendant from Rhodes, is among the victims of the aviation tragedy near Ankara. Turkish authorities confirmed the presence of a Greek citizen among the victims, but her official identification has not yet been completed. She began her career in airport security before becoming a flight attendant for Olympic Airlines, where she earned respect and admiration. Her death has deeply affected her friends and colleagues, who are bidding farewell to her on social media. The mourning for Maria reflects the impact she had on the aviation community.
Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed his dissatisfaction with the recent summit of Greece, Cyprus, and Israel, stating that the policies of these countries do not affect Turkey. He added that the rights of Turkish Cypriots would be protected. He commented on the unrest caused by recent developments, expressing condolences for a Libyan general who was killed. Erdoğan also emphasized the importance of government communication with the public. He stated that his party would continue to work for the people's welfare.
Russian diplomat Yuri Pilipson highlighted that the Republic of Cyprus is affected by the EU's policies against Russia. He claimed that Cyprus supports Ukraine, and Russia will respond to attacks on its interests. He also emphasized that the EU is obstructing peace processes. Additionally, he commented on Greece's foreign policy, arguing that the Greek population does not agree with the military assistance provided to Ukraine. The diplomat accused the EU of Russophobia and withdrawal from constructive negotiations.
The weather forecast for Christmas indicates a drop in temperature by 3 to 4 degrees Celsius. Local rain and thunderstorms are expected, mainly in the afternoon. There is a possibility of sleet or snow in the higher Troodos peaks. The temperature is expected to be around 19 degrees inland and 20 at the coasts. Winds will be light to moderate, and the sea will be slightly rough.
On Christmas Eve, people can track Santa Claus's journey in real-time using the FlightRadar 24 platform. Santa's sleigh travels across countries and continents, bringing joy to both children and adults. This initiative combines technology and imagination, providing a playful experience. It has become a popular tradition in recent years. It's a lovely way to feel the Christmas magic.
An incident unfolded in Limassol where a pursuit led to the arrest of three individuals. One of the detainees collapsed and is currently hospitalized in intensive care, with reports suggesting drug use. An officer was injured when a motorcycle collided with a police vehicle. Authorities are also investigating two other involved minors. The investigations are ongoing to clarify the exact circumstances of the event.
A private Beechcraft Super King Air 200 aircraft made the first automated landing without human intervention due to an emergency situation. Two passengers emerged unharmed after landing at Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport. The Garmin Autoland system activated automatically due to cabin pressure loss. The pilots donned oxygen masks and opted to keep the system activated. The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating the incident.
President Zelensky announced a new 20-point peace plan for Ukraine after negotiations with the U.S. This plan replaces the initial 28-point plan. Additionally, a three-party security assurance framework has been established between Ukraine, the U.S., and Europe. There is also a bilateral security agreement between Ukraine and the U.S. Zelensky emphasized the progress made in finalizing these documents.
A 36-year-old Syrian man was the victim of an attempted murder in Limassol, which is currently under investigation by the police. He is no longer in danger and has regained consciousness. Authorities are searching for two suspects from Lebanon. The victim was attacked by three individuals outside a cafe, using electric devices and a knife. There was also damage reported to the barbershop of one of the suspects.
This year, many Cypriots are opting to spend the Christmas holidays abroad. Greece remains a popular destination, with increased interest in Thessaloniki and Volos. Cypriots are also exploring destinations like Vienna, Prague, and London, while Poland is a surprising choice among travelers. The prices for holiday packages have risen this year, with the cheapest starting at 750 euros per person. Travelers are advised to take their passports in addition to their ID.
A 13-year-old girl in Thessaloniki reported being a victim of gang rape by six minors. The perpetrators, taking advantage of her friendship with a 15-year-old, lured her into shared areas and restrooms, where they assaulted her. They recorded their actions, part of which was shared online. Police have seized the perpetrators' mobile phones for investigation. Charges have been filed against the six minors for serious offenses.
Sylva A krita, the first female MP of PASOK, passed away at the age of 97. She was an experienced politician, holding positions including Deputy Minister of Health, Welfare, and Social Insurance. She was recognized for her resistance actions during the dictatorship and served in Parliament for many decades. She was a founding member of PASOK and the mother of Elena A krita. Her passing leaves a significant void in the country's political landscape.
The tragic story of 9-year-old Melody Bazard in the U.S. has a sad ending as her mother killed her. The girl had been missing since October, and her body was found in Utah. The sheriff of the county stated that the act was premeditated and ruthless. The last time Melody was seen was on security camera video. Her mother is not cooperating with authorities, and the motive remains unknown.
29-year-old Abdullah Al Zaytan from Syria has been sentenced to four years in prison for terrorism. His sentence was doubled by the Court of Appeals, which rejected his appeal arguments. Evidence included educational material for bomb-making found on his phone. The court deemed the initial punishment inadequate and upheld his conviction. He was arrested based on information from the FBI.
Cyprus and Greece signed a memorandum of cooperation to develop advanced technologies, such as radar for border surveillance and satellite systems for natural disaster warnings. This collaboration strengthens both countries strategically and invites new partnerships. Among the technologies to be developed are earth observation systems for agricultural and environmental purposes. Moreover, small satellites will be launched for maritime security and monitoring illegal activities. Finally, communication systems will be created to enhance national resilience.
130 Turkish Cypriot properties will be leased through auction to refugees in Nicosia and Larnaca. This initiative aims to increase revenue for the Turkish Cypriot Property Management Fund. The properties include buildings in areas of commercial value, such as the parish of Skala and the Mackenzie area. Interior Minister Konstantinos Ioannou initiated this process to better utilize underutilized properties. Securing these prime lots is considered important for the development of these regions.
Cyprus and Israel are planning to strengthen their defense cooperation, as discussed in the meeting between leaders Nikos Christodoulides and Benjamin Netanyahu. The need for Cyprus to obtain new weapon systems was highlighted, focusing on three specific systems. Israel is willing to collaborate and assist in modernizing the National Guard. Common military exercises and partnerships between Cypriot and Israeli companies were also discussed. Decisions regarding the management of the Aphrodite-Isaiah gas field are expected by January.
The case of the Community Welfare Council of Agios Athanasios is unprecedented as €144,000 disappeared without an accountable party. The two women managing the funds were acquitted of any criminal responsibility since no evidence was presented to support the case against them. The court found that the prosecution failed to provide sufficient testimony to back its claims. Despite the lack of evidence, gaps in the management process of the funds were highlighted. This situation leaves the Council with a deficit without clarity on who is responsible.
A man hired two women from India and Nepal for agricultural work and was found guilty of exploiting them. He forced one to sleep with him and subjected them to excessive working hours. Although initially sentenced to 10 years in prison, the Court of Appeals reduced the sentence to 8 years, determining that the rape charges were not proven. The charges included indecent assault as well. The accused faced a total of 11 charges related to the exploitation of the women.
The government has decided to raise the National Minimum Wage to 1,088 euros for the next two years to keep up with economic growth and inflation. However, this decision has sparked reactions from both unions and employers. Unions see the increase as insufficient, as it does not meet the 'magic number' of 1,125 euros. Meanwhile, employers are concerned about the economic impact of this rise. Nevertheless, the government emphasizes that the increase is necessary to improve workers' conditions.