The Russian Foreign Intelligence Service accuses Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of taking a political stance on Ukraine, claiming he has support from British intelligence agencies. The conflict with the Moscow Patriarchate continues, with the Patriarch attempting to draw away other Orthodox Churches. Accusations against Bartholomew include collaboration with nationalists and neo-Nazis. Specifically, there are claims of attempts to undermine the Serbian Orthodox Church. Church circles emphasize that his actions are destroying the unity of the Church.
The Ministry of Health announced the recall of the baby food NAN optipro 1 due to the potential presence of a toxin from the microorganism Bacillus cereus. This concerns a specific batch number and expiration date. Consumers are advised not to use the product and to return it. The recall was made as a precaution and includes other products from Nestle as well. Health Services continue to investigate the possible distribution of additional products in the market.
A wild elephant in India has killed at least 20 people over the course of nine days. Most attacks occurred at night while residents were protecting their crops. One of the victims was a father who was killed along with his two young sons. Authorities suggest that the elephant may be young and agile, with possible aggression due to the mating season. A large operation is underway to locate the elephant.
Bishop Tychikos filed a request with the Supreme Court to annul his suspension from the Metropolis of Paphos, just four days after the Holy Synod imposed an indefinite leave of absence on him. The request was submitted through his lawyer, and a judge will decide whether he can challenge the Synod's decision. The Holy Synod had set a condition that he refrain from legal actions to lift the suspension. Further details mention the Church of Cyprus's role as a self-governing entity. Legal nuances confirm the Church's autonomy and rights under the Constitution.
The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, announced that he has accepted the resignation of Charalambos Charalambous, his Office Director. This resignation follows the individual's involvement in a leaked video. Christodoulides stated he views the resignation as an act of confidence and trust. He acknowledged Charalambous's diligence and integrity, noting the loss of a valuable collaborator. He wished Charalambous well for the future.
European banks are working to reduce non-performing loans with varying degrees of success. Cyprus has made significant progress, with the non-performing loans rate dropping to 0.9% in Q3 2025. Currently, the overall rate in the EU remains stable at 1.84%, but there are rising non-performing loans among businesses, particularly in Austria, France, and Germany. Household loan indicators are generally stable, although Denmark saw a significant improvement. Analysts expect a moderate decline in asset quality in the near future.
The Russian Embassy in Cyprus announced the death of its employee, A.V. Panov, by hanging. The embassy described it as a 'deep personal tragedy' and is providing support to his family. His body is expected to be repatriated to Moscow. There were delays in informing the Cypriot authorities, and the police were not allowed to enter the embassy for investigation. The death is considered a suicide, with the embassy stating that a letter is to be sent to Moscow.
Cypriot authorities are continuing their search for Vladislav Baumgertner, a former CEO of Uralkali, who has been missing since January 7, 2026. The search focuses on a rugged coastal area near Pissouri, where his phone emitted its last signal. Efforts have been hindered by adverse weather conditions, though they include helicopters and drones. Baumgertner, 56 years old and 1.90 meters tall, was last seen wearing black clothing. Authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward.
The President of DIKO, Nikolas Papadopoulos, stated that a full investigation of a controversial video is necessary. He believes that Charalambos Charalambous should resign, as his decision left the President exposed. DIKO has requested immediate changes, including Charalambous' resignation and the appointment of criminal investigators for the video. There is concern regarding the party's participation in the government under these circumstances. However, Papadopoulos emphasizes that there is no request to withdraw from the government.
DISY MP Nikos Sycas appeared before the Supreme Court for a hearing on the lifting of his immunity, requested by the Legal Service. His lawyer raised no objections but plans to submit written comments. Sycas faces allegations of psychological violence and abuse, and a court order has been issued to prevent him from approaching the victim. After the hearing, he stated that he does not feel represented by immunity and fully supports justice. The hearing is scheduled for next Thursday.
President Nikos Christodoulides stated that his first thought regarding the controversial video is the complete abolition of the Authority. He made these remarks on Monday morning. Christodoulides appears to recognize the need for changes. More details are expected soon.
In Limassol, authorities are on alert following gunfire at a hair salon in the coastal area. The scene remains cordoned off, with police conducting on-site investigations. Initial reports suggest that unknown assailants fired at the front of the establishment. Surveillance footage from the area is being reviewed to identify the perpetrators. Authorities continue their investigations in the vicinity.
Charalambos Charalampous announced his resignation as the Director of the President's Office. In his post, he states that there has been a targeted effort to harm the President's image and question the government. He emphasizes that his involvement in the government was not for political ambition but a desire to contribute. For reasons of transparency and to prevent his presence from being exploited to damage the Republic of Cyprus, he decided to resign. His decision reflects his commitment to protecting the institutions and the country.
The President of DIKO, Nicolas Papadopoulos, met with the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, to discuss the political upheaval caused by the release of a controversial video. Papadopoulos confirmed that there are serious concerns within his party, but no decision has been made to withdraw from the Government. He emphasized the need for restoring trust and zero tolerance for corruption. DIKO is asking for the appointment of independent criminal investigators to look into the video. Papadopoulos described the resignation of the First Lady as a positive step.
The Independent Anti-Corruption Authority will examine a video related to the Presidential office that raises possible corruption issues. The video captures discussions among officials and a person representing a non-existent company. The lobbying law requires involved parties to declare their meetings with officials. Some individuals featured in the footage are not registered in the lobbying registry. The Authority will assess whether there are any violations of the law.
A yellow warning for rain and strong thunderstorms is in effect until 21:00 today. The forecast includes possible hail and snowfall in higher mountainous areas. Winds will be strong, especially along coastal regions. Temperatures will range from 4 to 15 degrees. In the coming days, the weather will remain partly cloudy with possible rain and snow in the mountains.
The feasibility study for the S0PAZ area is in its final stages and is expected to be delivered in 2026. Nicosia's Mayor, Charalampos Pruntzos, mentioned that the initial presentations are encouraging and significant improvements are anticipated for the area. The plan includes the development of residential units, a new school, and sports facilities. It also focuses on the Innovation Zone, which will feature offices and laboratories. The reconstruction of Ammochostos Avenue is crucial for the area's enhancement.
Cyprus is taking over the EU Council Presidency with a focus on strengthening the agricultural sector. The Minister of Agriculture outlined key priorities, including ensuring stable income for producers and support against climate change. Cyprus will also work to protect local farmers from unfair competition. Additionally, efforts are being made to renew rural areas and attract younger generations. The decisions made during the presidency are expected to positively impact the daily lives of Cypriot farmers.
The educational policies for students are a central aspect of the annual action plan by the Ministry of Education for 2026, with an estimated cost of around €116.15 million. The aim of these policies is to enhance public education by improving learning outcomes, developing digital and green skills, and utilizing technology. Expected interventions include addressing the education-employment mismatch, improving the full-day school system, and upgrading special education. The priorities have already been set and will be implemented in the new year. These policies target a modern and comprehensive education for students.
The creation of the Archaeological Park in Larnaca is delayed due to bureaucracy and landowner objections. The project includes the unification of significant archaeological sites and was supposed to start in 2024, but the process has not progressed. Local authorities express concern about the delays and the lack of information regarding the project's status. The Deputy Minister of Culture has requested assistance from local authorities to expedite the expropriations. This situation has serious implications for Larnaca's cultural heritage.
Police investigations related to a leaked video are focusing on two areas: the video's origin and possible criminal offenses arising from it. Former Minister Georgios Lakkotrypis testified about his involvement and a fraudulent investment company. A request for judicial assistance has been submitted to four countries to aid in the investigation. The Cyber Crime Unit and the Criminal Investigation Department are conducting parallel investigations. The documents submitted by Lakkotrypis will be examined to determine their origin.
The expansion of the port in Latchi is currently in the phase of evaluating environmental studies and will cost €52 million. The project is set to be delivered in two phases, with the first phase scheduled for completion in February 2028. Its goal is to upgrade the infrastructure and transform the port into an 'EcoPort' according to European standards. The expansion will provide an additional 186 berths and modern facilities for commercial and recreational activities. The interventions also include spaces for public services related to maritime activities.