Cardinal Pietro Parolin of the Vatican urgently contacted the U.S. ambassador to the Holy See for clarification on U.S. intentions in Venezuela. While acknowledging that Nicolás Maduro needed to leave, Parolin urged the U.S. to offer him an exit, supposedly to go to Russia under Putin's protection. Despite efforts to prevent bloodshed, the U.S. operation to capture Maduro took place, costing many lives. The leaked communication from the Vatican caused disappointment among its representatives. Several diplomatic attempts were unsuccessful before his arrest.
The United Nations blocked the screening of the film "Women Return" scheduled for Deryneia. The Cyprus Democratic Lawyers Association and the Association of Cypriots express concern over this decision, viewing it as a violation of fundamental rights. The film contains significant archival material related to the women's movement in 1975. The organizations condemn the ban as illegal and call for respect for human rights. They also denounce politically motivated restrictions on cultural events.
The analysis suggests that the video originates from an organized Russian hybrid operation aimed at disinformation. Experts conclude that the video's characteristics align with known Russian-origin campaigns, such as the Doppelganger campaign. This campaign is marked by the dissemination of anonymous and malicious videos targeting political figures. The Cypriot Intelligence Service has taken charge of the case and is monitoring developments. The circumstances surrounding the case are linked to significant events for Cyprus.
The company named Stratix Wealth was used by individuals questioning transparency in the energy sector to present alleged investments. Former Energy Minister Giorgos Lakkotrypis is said to have cooperated with them for a €150 million investment. However, there is no evidence of this company's existence, as the name 'Stratix' is used by other organizations in various countries. Additionally, the researcher Emily Thompson, who appears, lacks a clear profile. Overall, the indications suggest that it may be a scam.
In the USA, a 34-year-old man was arrested after stealing about 100 skulls and human body parts from an abandoned cemetery. The police found the remains in his home along with jewelry belonging to the deceased, as well as other evidence. The man had violated at least 26 graves at the Mount Moriah cemetery. He is charged with desecration and burglary and is being held in jail on a $1 million bail. Authorities are trying to understand the details of the crime.
The United States Coast Guard recently seized another tanker linked to Venezuela as part of efforts to enforce an American blockade. The tanker Olina, formerly known as Minerva M, was sanctioned for transporting Russian oil. This new development may escalate tensions between the US and Russia, following the seizure of a vessel reportedly under Russian protection. These seizures are strategic moves by the government to pressure Venezuela and weaken the so-called 'shadow' Russian fleet. The tanker is flagged in East Timor and was recently traveling under a false flag near the Venezuelan coast.
The Tax Department released a guide for tax reform and deductions today. This guide includes information on declarations and frequently asked questions. Tax Commissioner Sotiris Markides noted that it will help taxpayers understand the new legislation coming into effect on January 1st. An income tax calculation tool will also be launched soon. Employees are encouraged to review the guide and file their claims for deductions as soon as possible.
The Cyber Crime Unit is investigating a leaked video that has caused political turmoil. The Legal Service has instructed the Police to initiate inquiries regarding the video and its origins. The investigation is challenging because the platform X does not disclose user information. However, modern tools may assist in identifying users behind anonymous accounts. Similarities to previous illegal recording cases are noted.
The political atmosphere has intensified following a video highlighting corruption issues at the Presidential Palace. Victor Papadopoulos and Stefanos Stefanou exchanged accusations on the Alpha Inform program. Papadopoulos defended the government, stating they will not accept criticism from parties involved in scandals. In contrast, Stefanou countered that Papadopoulos shifts his stance depending on his remuneration. There is now a call for greater transparency from the government.
Christos Politis was found dead at his home by his family a few days after his passing. Friends and journalists confirmed the news as they sought information. He had been living in seclusion and withdrew from the public eye in recent years. His last public appearance was in the summer of 2025, and he will be cremated at the crematorium in Ritsonas. His loss has saddened his friends and the artistic community.
A 44-year-old Greek Cypriot was sentenced to 6 years in prison for possessing 2 kilograms of cannabis. The defendant's previous conviction for another drug possession case influenced his sentence. During a search by the Anti-Drug Squad, he attempted to throw the drugs out of the window. He claimed that he was holding the drugs for someone else. The court did not consider his personal circumstances as a mitigating factor.
Victoras Papadopoulos, the director of the Presidential Press Office, categorically rejects corruption allegations against Nikos Christodoulides, assuring that the President has clean hands. He emphasizes the importance of considering potential investors in the energy sector and the need for investment. He mentioned that transparency has always been maintained in the Ministry's handling of public funds. He also pointed out the lack of response from the President to a congratulatory message from Giorgos Chrysochoos, underscoring the absence of close relationships. Papadopoulos dismissed comparisons with previous corruption cases.
The Democratic Party issued a statement regarding a video that contains allegations of corruption focused on the Presidential Office. The party demands clear answers from the government about serious issues of collusion and lack of transparency. It raises questions about financial contributions and the functioning of the Social Support Body. The importance of transparency and accountability in protecting the country is emphasized. Lastly, the need for stricter legislation regarding transparency is highlighted.
A video published online has raised questions about its authenticity. It includes conversations with public and economic figures from Cyprus and was analyzed by Fact Check Cyprus to determine if it's an AI product. Initial investigations did not reveal evidence of AI or deepfake creation. The account that posted the video remains anonymous and its true identity has not been confirmed. The video shows no clear technical signs of manipulation, although the circumstances of its creation remain unclear.
A video capturing conversations of foreign businessmen with associates of the President of Cyprus has gained significant attention in Greek media. Newspapers report that the video has raised political tremors and discussions regarding the potential involvement of black money. Opinions vary, with some labeling it as collusion and others as defamation. The topic has become front-page news in several newspapers in Greece, such as 'Ta Nea' and 'Kathimerini.' The situation appears to cause concern regarding political stability in Cyprus.
Government Spokesperson Constantinos Letymbiotis addresses a video that targets the President of the Republic and the government. He claims that the video contains elements of hybrid activity and will be forwarded to the relevant authorities. He clarifies that the President has not received cash and his communication with George Chrysokhou is innocent. He emphasizes the distinction between propaganda and evidence-based journalism. The government represents the President institutionally and refrains from commenting on private statements.
Expert Dinos Pastos analyzes a controversial video that has sparked political reactions in Cyprus. He identifies linguistic features linked to the Turkish language, such as the letters 'ı' and 'ş'. These elements may indicate deception or misleading intent. However, he emphasizes that they alone are not sufficient as proof of identity. His analysis adds a new dimension to the discussion surrounding the video.
The process of recording student grades can lead to errors, resulting in unwanted situations. The Ministry of Education has provided guidelines to schools for managing such inadvertent mistakes. In cases of complaints or discrepancies, teachers are required to justify their grades. The necessary documentation and procedures for review must be diligently followed. Communication and approval for any grade changes are the responsibility of the school's principal.
Justice Minister Konstantinos Fytiris is considering three areas for the construction of new Central Prisons to address overcrowding issues. The proposed sites do not require expropriation, keeping costs low. The goal is for the prisons to be in a central location to facilitate prisoner transport. Existing prisons are expected to close and may be repurposed as museums or other facilities. Additionally, there are plans to hire 90 new prison guards to improve prison operations.
Cypriot companies are on high alert due to changes brought about by the tax reform. Accounting departments are working to adjust payroll procedures before the upcoming payments. However, many changes are causing delays and questions. The Employers and Industrialists Federation (OEB) will conduct informative webinars to help employers understand the changes. Presentations will focus on the taxation of natural persons and will be held on January 15 and 16, 2026.
Starting in 2024, tax changes in Cyprus will increase the tax-free income threshold to €22,000. Tax returns for the year 2025 will be submitted electronically through Tax For All. The new regulations will introduce more tax deductions based on family status. All taxpayers aged 25 to 71 will be required to submit tax returns. Deductions will cover expenses for dependents and housing for families earning up to €100,000.
The investigation into the death of a 78-year-old man focuses on the substance GBL found in a water cooler. Specialized analyses revealed that a cleaning product was poured into the cooler, which is also used by drug users. The man's son, who has a history of drug-related issues, has been in custody since December 28. After consuming the contaminated water, several relatives required immediate medical attention. The case appears to have a criminal aspect, but investigators suggest that the events may be due to a mistake rather than malicious intent.
A legal team will submit a request to the Supreme Court for the lifting of Nikos Sycas' parliamentary immunity. Although Sycas' partner has withdrawn her complaint against him, he remains willing to fully cooperate with the authorities. Police investigations continue as normal, despite the withdrawal of the complaint. The Legal Service will present all evidence, including forensic reports, to support the case. The law in Cyprus mandates a full investigation regardless of the victim's wishes.
A controversial video claims that there is a corruption mechanism at the Presidential Palace, alleging bribery during the electoral campaign. The government categorically denies these allegations, stating that the content is manipulated. Former government official Georgios Lakotryptis filed a complaint with the Police against the creators of the video. There are suspicions that the video is related to foreign interests aiming to harm the Republic of Cyprus. A meeting was held at the Presidential Palace regarding the issue, involving high-ranking officials.