5 Minute News

Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly facing issues with officers requesting to be pulled from the front lines in Pokrovsk. These officers cite a lack of discipline and frequent attacks, causing fear for their lives. The Russian leadership threatens them with disciplinary actions if they do not remain in position. These developments come at a time of unrest and challenges for Putin, who is under pressure from international events. The situation at the front is becoming serious as Ukrainian forces launch attacks on Russian targets.

In today's Joker draw, a prize of €9,000,000 will be shared among the winners. The drawn numbers are: 4, 10, 19, 27, 29, with the Joker number being 12. Draws take place three times a week, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. The lucky numbers offer significant financial rewards to the winners. There is anticipation surrounding the announcement of the winners.

A bettor won over $436,000 by wagering on the capture of Venezuela's president, Nicolás Maduro, by the U.S. The bet was placed on a cryptocurrency platform, with odds increasing suddenly just hours before Trump's announcement of his arrest. Experts are investigating whether there are signs of insider trading linked to this wager. This case raises concerns about the transparency of such bets and their potential implications. The CEO of Better Markets highlighted the need for careful analysis of the situation.

Seven European leaders express their support for Greenland, stating that it belongs to its people and only Denmark and Greenland have the right to decide on their affairs. In a joint announcement, the leaders of France, Germany, the UK, Italy, Spain, Poland, and Denmark emphasize the importance of Arctic security. They stress that the principles of international law and the UN Charter must be respected. Trump previously mentioned the strategic significance of Greenland for US interests. The joint announcement does not directly reference the United States but collectively highlights the need for security in the Arctic.

Today, the weather is expected to be mainly clear, though there will be some increased high cloud cover at times. The temperature will be around 18 degrees Celsius inland and 20 degrees along the coast. From Friday, local rains and a noticeable drop in temperature are expected. The sea will be a bit choppy, with mostly mild winds. Until Thursday, temperatures will remain above average.

An unexpected incident occurred in Limassol during the Epiphany celebrations while the waters were being blessed. After the cross was thrown into the sea, an unknown man retrieved it and disappeared. The priest did not receive the cross, causing confusion among the attendees. The police are investigating the case and exploring information regarding a possible theft. Ongoing investigations include witness statements and footage from the area.

Bishop Tyhikos is now seeking legal action to reclaim his position as the Metropolitan of Paphos. Despite earlier assurances to respect the decisions of the Holy Synod and the Ecumenical Synod, he seems unwilling to comply. He claims that his position was legally granted by the faithful of the Paphos Metropolitan District. The situation is expected to develop further in the next meeting of the Holy Synod. Tyhikos is planning to return to Cyprus from Greece soon.

Cilia Flores, the First Lady of Venezuela, plays an active role in the country's political life, having served as president of the National Assembly. She met Nicolás Maduro in the 1990s and they married in 2013. Flores has been a significant supporter of the 'Chavismo' movement and contributed to Chávez's political career. Recently, her and Maduro's arrest by the U.S. has stirred turmoil in the nation. The article highlights her multifaceted life and political career.

The new Metropolitan of Paphos is likely to be elected directly by the Holy Synod if Archbishop Georgios' proposal is approved. This proposal will be presented in the upcoming session of the Synod. Consequently, candidates supported by laypeople may have fewer chances of election. This direct election process is also applied in the Church of Greece. The Archbishop aims to ensure public support while avoiding conflicts regarding candidate eligibility.

The Police conducted preventive operations overnight to prevent crimes and ensure public order. Seven people were arrested for various offenses, including domestic violence and drug possession. Checks were carried out on over 600 vehicles and more than 750 individuals were examined. Additionally, inspections of establishments led to several reports for violations. The results included traffic offense reports and the detention of vehicles.

A deadly fire at the Le Constellation bar claimed the lives of 40 young people, mostly teenagers, during celebrations for the arrival of 2026. Initial estimates suggest the fire started from fireworks being used by patrons. Twenty-six of the deceased were aged between 14 and 18, coming from seven different countries. The tragedy has international repercussions, with some victims identified only through DNA. The confirmation of 15-year-old Alice Kallegeri's death caused deep sorrow in Greece.

Khaled al-Najjar, a 53-year-old Syrian, was sentenced to 30 years in prison for the murder of his 18-year-old daughter, Rayan, in an honor crime. His two sons, Mohamed and Mohanad, were sentenced to 20 years for their involvement. Rayan had adopted a Western lifestyle, which was considered humiliating by her family. Her refusal to wear a hijab and activity on social media were the main triggers for the crime. The case has shocked society due to the brutality of the act.

A bicycle and helmet worth 850 euros were stolen on New Year's Day. Three days later, the bicycle was seen for sale on Facebook. The police arrested a 39-year-old for the theft and a 30-year-old lawyer for receiving stolen property. The 39-year-old is held in custody while the lawyer was released pending the next court proceedings. The case is set to continue in court next Thursday.

Attention is focused on the Cyprus issue regarding the renewal of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) in January. The UN Secretary-General will present two reports concerning UNFICYP and the situation in Cyprus. Key dates for the discussion and adoption of the new resolution are January 5, 13, 15, 29, and 31, 2026. The Security Council is expected to renew the mandate of the Peacekeeping Force, as it has done in previous years. This discussion occurs in an international context with many challenges, including the situation in Venezuela.

The case involving MP Nikos Syka relates to allegations from his partner of physical assault. The police are gathering testimonies from Greece to support the claims made. According to the law, lifting the MP's immunity is necessary before any interrogation can occur. The Deputy Attorney General has instructed the evaluation of the collected testimonies and the preparation of a request for lifting the immunity. The case is considered serious and requires immediate investigation.

The Department of Electromechanical Services is moving forward with the second phase of the mobile phone deactivation system in Central Prisons. The first phase is 90% completed and is effective in detecting mobile phones. There was minor damage to one sensor, but overall, the system is functioning well. The next phase will focus on blocking the signals of the phones. The prisons will not disclose when phones are detected to act quickly and effectively.

In Nicosia, there is a proposal to relocate the urban bus station from the Solomou Square to a state-owned site near the former Hilton hotel. Nicosia's mayor, Charalambos Prunthos, supports this idea, which includes establishing a transfer station for better access to the city center. However, the proposal faced objections in the past from the company managing urban transport. Discussions about the station at Omirou Square are expected to advance. ETEK also supports initiatives for improving city access.

A new work schedule for over 1,000 police officers was implemented from January 1, reducing work hours from 12 to 11. This change has sparked opposition from police unions, as it means fewer rest days and a loss of annual compensation. The police leadership has requested lists of personnel affected by this schedule change to organize services. The chief of police emphasized that this adjustment would enhance policing and crime prevention. This decision is part of a broader reform plan for the police force.

Loizos Loizidis, the former director of the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research, is countering allegations related to the Trimiklini fish farm case. He is requesting a review from the Independent Authority Against Corruption, arguing that the charges are baseless and violate his rights. The Authority has suggested possible criminal responsibilities for signing licenses for the fish farm's establishment and operation. Loizidis claims the accusations against him are selective and unfounded. He seeks a reconsideration of the announcement to restore his personal and professional reputation.