The Joker draw by OPAP held on January 20, 2026, offers at least €13,500,000. The winning numbers drawn are 27, 45, 7, 32, 2 and the Joker number is 9. Draws take place three times a week, every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday. The next draw will happen soon. Everyone can participate.
President Donald Trump expressed his desire to involve Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado in the country's governance. However, he has currently excluded her from his strategy following the arrest of Nicolás Maduro. He described her as an 'incredibly kind woman' who has done significant work. He emphasized that they are discussing her potential involvement in governance in the future. Trump expresses a willingness to collaborate with her.
A delegation from the Israeli Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure will travel to Nicosia this week to finalize the agreement regarding the Aphrodite gas field. The discussions stemmed from a trilateral conference involving Israel, Cyprus, and Greece. The goal is to agree on the final percentage of the Isaias reservoir and implement the decision made by the energy ministers. The agreement appears to be nearing its final stage and could be signed in February. Officials indicate that the development process of the reservoir is progressing as planned.
Athens and several other countries are facing a dilemma due to Donald Trump's pressure for their participation in the Peace Council. The Greek government is carefully examining the proposal, which seems to extend beyond the original scope and duration set by the UN Security Council. Accepting the invitation could undermine the UN process, while rejecting it may affect relations with the US. Germany and France are inclined to decline the invitation, whereas Hungary and Albania have expressed their willingness to participate.
Phidias Panagiotou claims to be unaware of any investigation against him regarding potential misappropriation of funds from European funds. He stated that he has not received any official information about complaints directed at him. He pointed out that these issues might be related to electoral motives. He plans to address the situation via a video on social media in the coming days. The case is also under investigation by the Anti-Corruption Authority and OLAF.
A Copenhagen store's initiative to design red hats with humorous messages has turned into a symbol of political resistance against the idea of the U.S. buying Greenland. The hats are a twist on the famous 'Make America Great Again' phrase, featuring messages like 'Make America Go Away'. A protest event in Copenhagen drew tens of thousands who called for the protection of Greenland. The store owner distributed 300 hats during the event to support the opposition to selling Greenland. This initiative fosters solidarity between Danes and Greenlanders.
The European Parliament has postponed the ratification of an important trade agreement with the United States due to recent tariff threats from President Trump. A majority agreement among political groups has been reached for this decision. This move represents the EU's response to Trump's pressures. The US is threatening higher tariffs if they do not acquire Greenland. France is urging the EU to consider more decisive measures against the US.
During President Christodoulides' presentation at the European Parliament, an unexpected incident occurred. A Member of the European Parliament collapsed and lost consciousness, resulting in injury. He was later taken to the hospital for medical attention. The interpreter announced a brief break due to the situation. This incident created disturbance among those present.
The Court of Appeals confirmed the prison sentences for a man accused of serious sexual offenses against a minor and a person with intellectual disabilities. The accused had been convicted on 17 counts, including acts against children under the age of 13. Although he claimed the sentences were excessive, the court deemed him the orchestrator of the crimes. The sentences, while severe, were found to be fully justified. The ruling emphasizes the gravity of crimes against children.
The number of flu deaths in Cyprus has risen to 13, with the latest victim being a 54-year-old man. Most of the deceased were over 80 years old with underlying health conditions. However, Dr. Konstantinou noted that there seems to be a slight decline in the epidemic. The healthcare system remains manageable despite increased pressure. There is a sufficient supply of antiviral medications and diagnostic tests.
In Larnaca, five individuals from Palestine and Jordan were arrested following an incident involving gunfire and violent clashes. The court has decided to hold them for eight days while evidence is being examined. One of the suspects' lawyers questions why the other assailants seen in videos have not been arrested. Additionally, two more foreigners are being sought for their involvement in a criminal organization and extortion. The case includes charges of violent attacks on a businessman.
Donald Trump continues to reference Greenland, utilizing artificial intelligence tools in his posts. He shared two images on Truth Social that highlight his desire for American control over the island. In the first photo, he is depicted holding the American flag in Greenland. The second image has been edited to show a meeting with European leaders, featuring a map declaring Greenland as part of the USA. These posts emphasize his strategic vision for the region.
The Mayor of Lefkara, Sofoklis Sofokleous, reported illegal drug trafficking in Turkish Cypriot properties in the area. He mentioned instances where illegal holders demanded large sums of money to vacate their residences. He stressed that many of these houses are abandoned and may be used for illegal activities. He urged authorities to document the situation and identify the rightful owners. If there are no regulations, he intends to take action to provide the houses to those in need.
The Energy Committee of the Parliament discussed the gas terminal issue at Vasiliko and the involvement of legal advisors in the project. There was a confrontation between MPs and representatives of ETYFA regarding transparency and parliamentary communication. MPs demanded information about the advisors and their fees. ETYFA stated that some information is sensitive and cannot be disclosed. This led to tensions and mutual accusations between MPs and the company.
Charalampos Charalambous mentioned a €500,000 investment from OpenAI for Artificial Intelligence education in Cyprus. There were doubts about the investment's existence, as the General Auditor stated that there is no record of it in state funds. Deputy Minister Nicodemus Damianou clarified that the funding is intended for an educational program in schools. Christos Christofides asked for more information about the program and its funding sources. The case is sparking intense discussions in public discourse.
The Housing Finance Organization (HFO) is facing significant issues with the implementation of a new Information System, costing at least €3.55 million from 2021 to 2025. The delays in project implementation have resulted in limitations on its services, including the loss of credit cards and ATMs for clients. An audit report highlights problems with subcontractor performance and administrative weaknesses within the HFO. The failure to complete the project leaves the HFO dependent on KEDIPES and forces it to upgrade its old system. The Auditor General notes institutional weaknesses and the financial repercussions of the delays.
A tragedy occurred in Spain following a train derailment that resulted in the death of an entire family. Only a six-year-old girl, a member of the family, survived and was found wandering alone on the tracks by rescuers. The family had traveled to Madrid to attend a soccer match and a musical. In the aftermath of the tragedy, the family and the community are mourning their lost loved ones. The girl is currently recovering with her grandmother, and it remains uncertain whether she fully understands the loss.
The police arrested five individuals connected to gunfire incidents that occurred in Larnaca in January 2026. The detainees include three 25-year-olds, a 26-year-old, and a 31-year-old. The publication of their photographs and personal information will not continue. Four additional suspects are still being sought in connection with the case. The investigation is being conducted by the Larnaca CID.
The President of Cyprus will address the European Parliament regarding the political situation in Cyprus and the priorities of the Cypriot Presidency. His speech focuses on the importance of European security and autonomy, especially in a world of geopolitical challenges. It will emphasize that strengthening international law and sovereignty is essential for the EU's security. The presentation will include five key pillars related to defense and security. The main message is that a strong and united Europe requires internal cohesion and external partnerships.
The National Betting Authority is conducting secret checks at betting agencies to ensure compliance with the law. In 2025, the total amount wagered reached 1.3 billion euros, with players receiving a total of 1.17 billion euros in winnings. The Authority imposed fines of 46 thousand euros last year and is expecting revenue growth for 2026. A proposed bill aims to improve services and protect minors. The Authority's revenue for this year is projected to be 71.85 million euros.
The Holy Synod announced that the deposed monks of the Monastery of Saint Abbacum are irregular and their ceremonies are invalid. It is mentioned that these monks may be engaging in illegal activities concerning the State. The Church lacks the legal grounds to prevent them, while the State is expected to examine this situation. They may face prosecution if their activities are deemed illegal. The Church's next move is to confirm the sentence or impose new sanctions.
A violent incident in Larnaca revealed the presence of criminal networks competing for control over illegal protection services for businesses. Business owners are anxious, as many have received threats. The Minister of Justice urged the Police to intervene immediately and tackle this serious criminal activity. The situation has become alarming, with an increase in reports and the Police investigating the assaults. The demand for justice and safety has become urgent for the local community.
Flu continues to cause serious issues in Cyprus, with four deaths reported in just three days. Intensive care units are crowded, primarily with elderly patients who have other health problems. Flu activity remains high across Europe, especially with the A(H3N2) subtype being dominant. Doctors urge the public to limit their contacts during this time. The Health Ministry is focusing on prevention, emphasizing vaccination.
The Parliament is set to examine the institutional crisis stemming from a controversial video that reveals a corruption mechanism at the Presidential Palace. The Institutions Committee will discuss any potential responsibilities arising from the video, while the Audit Committee will review the Auditor General's report on the Independent Social Support Authority. Topics of discussion include the management of the Authority's resources and the donations received. MPs are seeking answers regarding the integrity of institutions, with references to charitable actions that may conceal interests. The situation is serious, and developments are awaited with interest.
There has been a judicial overturn in the case of the book 'Eleni the Whore' as the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Eleni Socratus. In 2016, her lawsuit was dismissed by the District Court, but now it has been decided that she will receive over €25,000 in damages. The judges noted that the initial court's decision was erroneous, as it involved an infringement on Socratus's privacy. Additionally, she was awarded €3,400 in appeal costs. The ruling was based on the nature of the information included in the book, which pertained to personal and sexual matters.