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The U.S. Secretary of the Treasury claimed that Europe is very weak and that European leaders must be under U.S. security. He emphasized America's demand to acquire Greenland, viewing it as essential for security. He expressed confidence that the U.S.-E.U. trade agreement will not be affected by these developments. He pointed out that a move to seize Greenland would not mean the end of NATO. European leaders need to understand the necessity of allied relations with the U.S.
European countries threatened by Donald Trump issued a joint statement expressing solidarity with Denmark and the citizens of Greenland. They emphasize that threats of tariffs undermine transatlantic relationships. A German newspaper reported the sudden withdrawal of German troops from Greenland without any explanation. EU leaders are considering potential retaliatory measures against the US. A significant proposal is the use of the EU's 'bazooka' tool for trade retaliation.
In Larnaca, gunshots were reported during a clash related to organized crime. A group attempted to extort a local businessman, demanding €7,000 for 'protection'. The situation escalated with threats and attacks on the businessman. Fortunately, despite the clashes and gunfire, no one was seriously injured. The police have launched an investigation to locate those involved.
In Connecticut, an 11-year-old girl, Jacqueline Torres-Garcia, was found dead from starvation, with only a berry in her stomach. Her mother and former partner have been arrested and charged with murder. The coroner found that the girl had been given non-prescribed drugs. Additionally, testimonies indicate that she was restrained and forbidden even to use the toilet. Her death is estimated to have occurred in September, and her remains were found in a state of advanced decomposition.
President Nikos Christodoulides described the incidents in Larnaca as unacceptable. He announced plans for strict measures against those involved, including immediate deportation of foreigners and placing them on a stop list. He also mentioned that the police are working on arrests. Christodoulides emphasized the need for exemplary punishment, stating that the images released are beyond unacceptable.
A 63-year-old reported that he fell victim to an online scam, losing over €850,000. Unknown individuals posed as representatives of investment firms and convinced him to transfer money and cryptocurrencies. He realized it was a scam when they stopped communicating with him. The police are investigating the case. This incident highlights the risks associated with online investments.
Maria Karystianou speaks about the pain she felt after losing her daughter, Martha, in the train tragedy at Tempi. She shares the promise she made to her and her fight against corruption in Greece. Karystianou emphasizes that the pain will always accompany her, though she strives to endure it with dignity. Despite her tragedy, she has established an association aimed at creating strong responses against the corrupt system. Her experience has become a symbol of the citizens' struggle against corruption.
Donald Trump's administration has proposed creating a new international organization called the Board of Peace, requiring states that wish for permanent membership to pay $1 billion. Countries that do not pay will only have a three-year term, with the possibility of renewal dependent on the organization's president. The proposal has sparked controversy, raising concerns about potential competition with the UN. There are also doubts regarding the mandatory nature of the contributions. The U.S. government has labeled some reports as misleading.
The Larnaca Police are on alert following a stabbing incident in Tersefanou, just hours after another violent episode in Larnaca. A foreigner is believed to have stabbed another person in a home, with initial motives pointing to personal disputes. The victim was seriously injured and taken to Larnaca Hospital. More details will follow.
George Vasiliou was elected President of the Republic in 1988 with a clear goal to achieve a solution to the Cyprus issue within six months. Despite being an economist without prior political experience, he was well-informed about the situation. He decided to re-establish the National Council and promoted discussions on Cyprus-related matters. Vasiliou held repeated sessions with former political leaders to outline common goals. By the end of 1988, a minimum agreement was reached through the Unanimous Decisions of January 1989.
During the night, a murder occurred in Paphos after a confrontation. The victim is a 41-year-old man from Bulgaria. The police have arrested a 30-year-old in connection with the case. The investigation is being handled by the Paphos CID. More details are expected soon.
The leak of a controversial video ten days ago has triggered significant turbulence in the political landscape, leading to resignations and increasing public anger. President Christodoulides reacted to the crisis, but his statements provoked further backlash. This new situation is expected to impact the upcoming parliamentary and presidential elections. Although the landscape remains unclear, there are indications of potential political upheavals. Citizens appear to be frustrated, and the ramifications of the issue may be extensive.
The occupying force has intensified its efforts to control the buffer zone in Cyprus, attempting to create faits accomplis. These actions raise concerns among local residents and the UN. The Republic of Cyprus is closely monitoring the situation and taking steps to ensure citizens' safety. The Foreign Ministry reacted to the UN's strategy of maintaining equal distances regarding attacks by the occupying army. The situation is evolving, and there may be an escalation of the Turkish presence.
From 2021 to 2024, Cyprus granted €2 billion in tax exemptions to attract professionals from abroad. During this period, 46,605 workers from various countries moved to Cyprus to take advantage of these benefits. Russian workers made a significant contribution to these exemptions. The government plans to introduce new legislation aimed at improving tax incentives and encouraging the repatriation of Cypriot citizens. The proposal includes an increase in the rates of tax exemptions.
Cyprus is introducing its first National Integration Strategy for Migrants for 2025-2029, aimed at minimizing social tensions arising from ghettoization. The Deputy Minister of Migration, Nikolas Ioannidis, emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to integrate migrants into society. The strategy includes language lessons, childcare programs, and tools to facilitate access to employment. It stresses the importance of a policy that ensures social cohesion and careful monitoring of migration flows. The Deputy Minister warns that those who do not adapt will face strict measures.
The grid operator AΔMHE is facing delays in the electric interconnection between Cyprus and Greece, with the company Nexans holding AΔMHE responsible for contract violations. If the official start notice for the project is not granted by the first quarter of 2026, Nexans will be released from its obligations. Additionally, the compensation Nexans could seek in case of early project termination could reach €250 million. Nexans has already manufactured parts of the cable but requires AΔMHE's approval to proceed. The situation is critical, and if the notice is not given by March 2026, the project could be halted.
The Cypriot presidency of the EU is expected to help shape strategies that benefit consumers. The European Consumer Organization has submitted a 40-page memorandum with proposals to improve consumer rights. It calls for the protection of compensation rights for flights and assurance of basic passenger rights. It also emphasizes the need for transparency and fairness in online booking. Protecting consumer privacy is crucial, especially concerning the development of artificial intelligence.
Cyprus has developed strategic partnerships in defense, focusing on the compatibility of weapon systems. Defense Minister Vasilis Palma highlights the positive effects of collaboration with the USA, facilitating access to the American defense industry. Weapon systems from Israel are continuously evaluated based on operational needs. Upgrading the National Guard is prioritized to meet modern challenges. Cyprus's defense capabilities are continuously strengthened in a changing geopolitical environment.
In Larnaca, a serious fight between organized groups occurred, involving gunfire and the use of weapons, causing public concern. One person was injured and taken to the hospital, while the police made arrests and issued warrants for three others. The incident happened in a public area, raising fears for safety in the city. This new crime event adds to a worrying trend of violence from organized crime. The police are closely monitoring the situation and have increased their presence in the area.