The world is watching developments in Venezuela, where Donald Trump observed the live capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife by special forces. Photos show Trump watching the operation from Mar-a-Lago alongside Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Trump described it as an incredible experience, likening it to watching a TV show. One of the photos was released in black and white to emphasize the significance of the moment. The operation was named 'Absolute Resolve'.
Donald Trump released photos of Nicolás Maduro following his arrest. In the photos, Maduro is seen with his hands bound and eyes covered. Reports indicate that Maduro and his wife were captured by the U.S. Delta Force unit. Trump announced that the arrest was made in collaboration with U.S. law enforcement authorities. More details and a press conference from Trump are expected.
The US operation in Venezuela and the capture of Nicolas Maduro is a strategic move against China affecting its energy security. Venezuela has become a key oil supplier for China due to sanctions it has faced. The American intervention adds risk to the stability of oil suppliers and affects trust in the market. This action sends a message to both Venezuela and Iran about destabilizing their relations. Trump emphasizes that the US will not allow any secure channels from China.
In Ormidia, the police fired warning shots during a sea chase involving two wanted individuals. The suspects attempted to attack members of the authorities with a knife and a wooden stick. The chase began when authorities recognized a suspicious boat that might be involved in illegal activities. The two men, who are brothers, were arrested and will be handed over to the Republic of Cyprus for an ongoing attempted murder case. The incident was dramatic and will be further investigated by the authorities.
The U.S. operation aimed at removing Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro is considered unprecedented. Delta Force carried out the mission, reminiscent of the capture of Manuel Noriega in 1989. In both cases, the leaders faced contested elections and drug trafficking allegations. This operation appears to have been conducted without conventional ground forces. The fate of Maduro remains uncertain, with potential developments in a U.S. correctional facility.
A 55-year-old banker became a hero when he rushed to save at least ten young people trapped in a burning situation at the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana. He received a call from his daughter asking for help for her friends who were trapped inside. When he arrived, the firefighters were already there, but the exit was blocked by the crowd. With the help of another man, they managed to open a side exit and free the people who were trapped. Campolo described the horrific scene but did not stop helping the injured.
Authorities have arrested two wanted brothers for the attempted murder of a 36-year-old Syrian. The arrest occurred after a chase in the sea area near Ormideia. British Bases police spotted a boat with the suspects and attempted to conduct a check. The suspects tried to escape, leading to a pursuit with the help of the Larnaca Port Police. Currently, procedures are underway for their handover to the authorities of the Republic of Cyprus.
The case of Tychikos is nearing its conclusion after the Feast of Theophany. The Holy Synod has decided on his removal, with possible penalties of suspension or deposition. So far, Tychikos has neither appeared nor shown any sign of repentance. Archbishop Georgios is attempting to set a date for a meeting to discuss Tychikos's future. Support from the Synod members has significantly dwindled.
The Christmas Villages in Cyprus aim to support remote communities and boost winter tourism. Since 2017, the Ministry of Tourism has taken charge of organizing and funding these villages. Each community determines the criteria for operating stalls, resulting in significant revenue. Communities can earn tens of thousands of euros from stall rentals, sometimes exceeding 4,000 euros. In 2025, eight Christmas Villages are officially operating in Cyprus.
Cyprus is experiencing a significant increase in the return of third-country nationals in the first half of 2025, according to a Frontex report. The country ranks first in the increase of returns and second in actual numbers within the EU. Nearly 12,000 individuals have departed from Cyprus, with a high percentage of voluntary returns. Immigration Minister Nikolas Ioannidis highlighted the effectiveness of the country's processes. Compared to the rest of Europe, returns from Cyprus are increasing at a faster rate, indicating serious operational activity.
The traffic police is seeking a change in legislation that would allow them to revoke driving licenses on the spot from drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The current law permits offenders to continue driving until their trial, which concerns the authorities. In 2025, road accidents and fatalities increased, with 45 deaths in traffic collisions. The new regulation aims to reduce the number of dangerous drivers and provide immediate action by the traffic police. Most victims are young people, with motorcyclists being particularly vulnerable.
The registration process for the electoral lists begins for the parliamentary elections in May 2026. Citizens must register by April 2, 2026. Young people turning 18 by election day can also register. The process for those over 25 requires a personal interview and proof of residency. Next time, the new voters will be automatically registered starting from 2028.
The presence of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Cyprus highlights the significance of the Cypriot Presidency of the EU during a critical period for Ukraine. Zelensky is set to participate in a meeting with EU leaders in Nicosia, aiming to support Ukraine and promote peaceful solutions. Cyprus reaffirms its support for Ukraine and strengthens European solidarity. President Christodoulides stated that the Presidency will focus on the strategic autonomy of the EU. During the Presidency, important visits and collaborations with third countries are expected.
In Larnaca, major projects are being planned to transform the city by 2026. Eight projects are already underway, and four more are expected to start soon, with a total cost exceeding 100 million euros. The improvements include roads, parks, and squares. Additionally, significant upgrades are anticipated for the coastal road and the commercial center. The development process is expected to be completed by 2030, when Larnaca will be a European Capital of Culture.
A 36-year-old Israeli, Daniel Yehonatan Zarvg, is seeking asylum in Cyprus, claiming that he is maliciously persecuted by the Israeli authorities. He asserts that he is charged with crimes he did not commit and has suffered abuse and torture in Israeli prisons. His asylum request was recently denied, prompting him to file an appeal in the International Protection Court. Zarvg states that his life is at risk and he needs protection. The case has political implications and has drawn significant media attention.
The disagreement between the unions and the leadership of the Police regarding the new schedule for 1,000 police officers is ongoing. Justice Minister Costas Fitiris supports the decision for the schedule change and warns of disciplinary measures. The unions, on their part, remain steadfast in their positions. It is emphasized that following orders is essential, even in the case of disagreement. There are procedures for submitting complaints, but laws and regulations must be adhered to.