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Category: News

  • Handball team — Cyprus’ Honorary Consul Visits Handball Team After Bus Crash in Estonia

    Handball team — Cyprus’ Honorary Consul Visits Handball Team After Bus Crash in Estonia

    handball team — Cyprus’ honorary consul in Tallinn, Jaanus Rahumagi, met with the men’s national handball team following their involvement in a serious road traffic accident. The team was in Estonia for a fixture when their bus overturned during the early hours of Sunday morning.

    The incident occurred as the team was travelling from the capital, Tallinn, to the southeastern town of Polva, where they were scheduled to compete against the Estonian national team. According to the Cypriot embassy in Helsinki, which manages relations with Estonia, Rahumagi expressed his support for the team and conveyed wishes for a speedy recovery to the injured players.

    Fortunately, the handball federation reported that while no team members sustained serious injuries, two individuals were taken to hospital for treatment. In light of the accident, the match against Estonia has been postponed. This fixture was part of the qualification process for the upcoming European men’s handball championship, set to take place in 2028.

    Prior to the crash, Cyprus had faced a challenging start in the qualification campaign, having lost the first leg against Estonia 31-27 in Nicosia just a week earlier. The postponement of this match adds another layer of complexity to their qualification efforts.

    As the team focuses on recovery and regrouping after this unexpected ordeal, the support from diplomatic figures like Rahumagi highlights the importance of solidarity in times of crisis, reinforcing the bond between Cyprus and its athletes abroad.

  • Kombos Discusses Venezuela with US Secretary of State Rubio

    Kombos Discusses Venezuela with US Secretary of State Rubio

    Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos engaged in a significant conversation regarding Venezuela with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Sunday. This call not only focused on Venezuela but also touched upon various pressing global matters.

    Venezuela: Key Topics of Discussion

    According to Tommy Pigott, deputy spokesman for the US Department of State, the dialogue included discussions about the United States’ counternarcotics operations in the Caribbean. This aspect of the conversation was framed within the context of the US government’s rationale for its recent actions against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.

    Wider Global Context

    In addition to Venezuela, Kombos and Rubio also addressed the ongoing protests in Iran and the shared priorities during Cyprus’ presidency of the Council of the European Union, which runs from January to June. The Cypriot foreign ministry described the exchange as “forward-looking,” highlighting the importance of transatlantic relations and the strategic partnership between Cyprus and the US.

    Regional Developments and Concerns

    The conversation extended to regional developments in Syria and Iran, particularly in light of recent protests. The Cypriot government had reiterated its travel advisory against all travel to Iran just last week, underscoring the serious nature of the situation.

    Efforts for Peace in Ukraine

    Another topic of importance discussed was the ongoing efforts for lasting peace in Ukraine. The discussions reflect a broader concern for stability in various regions that have been affected by conflict.

    Maduro’s Legal Troubles

    As of now, Nicolas Maduro remains in New York following his capture in Venezuela and is facing criminal charges in the US related to drug trafficking. The implications of his capture and the subsequent actions taken by the US have stirred significant reactions both domestically and internationally.

    US President’s Stance on Energy Companies

    On the same day, US President Donald Trump threatened to restrict energy giant ExxonMobil from accessing Venezuela’s oil reserves. This statement came after ExxonMobil’s CEO, Darren Woods, labelled Venezuela as “uninvestable” during a meeting at the White House. This situation raises questions about the future of foreign investment in the Venezuelan oil sector.

    Reactions in Cyprus

    In Cyprus, the US actions regarding Venezuela have sparked a negative grassroots reaction. Despite the escalating tensions, Kombos maintained a measured stance on the day of Maduro’s capture, advocating for “de-escalation, restraint, and a resolution that respects international law.” He emphasised that Cyprus is closely monitoring developments in Venezuela in collaboration with the EU and other partners.

    EU’s Position on Maduro

    EU High Representative for Foreign Policy, Kaja Kallas, has also been vocal about the situation, stating that the EU is closely monitoring developments in Venezuela. She reiterated that the EU has consistently maintained that Maduro lacks legitimacy and supported a peaceful transition. The EU stresses the necessity of adhering to international law and the UN charter, underscoring that the safety of EU citizens remains a top priority.

    Protests Against US Actions

    Following the developments, a protest occurred outside the US embassy in Nicosia, led by Akel party leader Stefanos Stefanou. He expressed that there can be “no excuse” for the US’s actions in Venezuela, arguing that the intervention cannot be justified as a means to combat a dictatorial regime or drug trafficking. Stefanou’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment among various political factions in Cyprus regarding the US’s foreign interventions.

    Condemnation of Military Actions

    Other political parties in Cyprus have also voiced their objections to the US actions. The Volt party condemned any violation of international law, stating that military force should not substitute for diplomacy. This collective discontent indicates a growing apprehension regarding the ramifications of foreign interventions and their legality.

  • Cyprus eu — Marilena Raouna to Highlight Cyprus EU Presidency Priorities at COSAC Meeting

    Cyprus eu — Marilena Raouna to Highlight Cyprus EU Presidency Priorities at COSAC Meeting

    cyprus eu — cyprus eu — Marilena Raouna, the Deputy Minister for European Affairs, is set to present the priorities of Cyprus’ presidency of the Council of the European Union during the upcoming COSAC meeting. This significant event will take place on Monday at the Nicosia Conference Centre, starting at 9.30am.

    Cyprus eu: Meeting Details and Agenda

    The Conference of Parliamentary Committees for Union Affairs of Parliaments of the European Union (COSAC) is an important platform for discussing and coordinating policies among EU member states. Organised by the House of Representatives, this meeting will see representation from various national parliaments across the EU, as well as from candidate countries.

    Key Topics for Discussion

    During her presentation, Raouna will outline the main priorities that Cyprus aims to focus on during its presidency. These priorities are expected to reflect the broader goals of the EU and address pressing issues that require collaborative efforts among member states.

    Engagement with Parliamentary Committees

    Following her presentation, Raouna will engage in an exchange of views with chairs of parliamentary committees on European affairs. This interaction is crucial for fostering dialogue and understanding between Cyprus and other EU nations, particularly as they share ideas and strategies for tackling common challenges.

    Importance of Cyprus’ EU Presidency

    Cyprus took on the presidency of the Council of the European Union during a critical period, with various challenges facing the bloc. The presidency rotates among member states every six months, and each country has the opportunity to influence the EU’s agenda significantly.

    Strategic Goals

    Cyprus’ presidency is anticipated to focus on several strategic goals, including enhancing economic stability, addressing migration issues, and promoting sustainable development. These areas are not only vital for Cyprus but also resonate with the interests of the entire EU.

    EU Member States and Candidate Countries’ Involvement

    Engagement with representatives from candidate countries will also mark a significant aspect of the COSAC meeting. This inclusion underscores the EU’s commitment to strengthening ties with nations aspiring to join the union. The dialogue will facilitate an exchange of experiences and best practices between current members and potential future members.

    Anticipated Outcomes of the Meeting

    The outcomes of the COSAC meeting are likely to set the tone for the duration of Cyprus’ presidency. By establishing clear priorities and fostering collaboration among EU members, Raouna aims to ensure that Cyprus plays a pivotal role in shaping the EU’s future direction.

    Collaborative Efforts Ahead

    As the meeting unfolds, it is expected that various committees will align their efforts with Cyprus’ goals, contributing to a unified approach towards tackling issues that affect the European Union. The collaborative spirit demonstrated at COSAC will be essential for achieving meaningful results.

    Looking Forward

    With the presentation of priorities and the subsequent discussions, Cyprus is poised to make a significant impact during its presidency. The leadership role presents an opportunity not only to address national interests but also to contribute to the collective aspirations of the EU.

    As the meeting progresses, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how effectively Cyprus can navigate the complexities of EU governance and collaboration, setting the stage for future successes.

  • Disinformation — Cyprus Intelligence Links Alleged Corruption Video to Russian Disinformation Campaign

    Disinformation — Cyprus Intelligence Links Alleged Corruption Video to Russian Disinformation Campaign

    The Republic of Cyprus is reportedly the target of a Russian disinformation attack following the release of a video alleging corruption at the Presidential Palace. State intelligence experts have characterised the operation as an organised “hybrid operation,” according to sources within the security services who spoke to Philenews.

    Disinformation: Targeted Individuals and Allegations

    The video in question prominently features former minister Yiorgos Lakkotrypis and presidential aide Charalambos Charalambous. It appears to have been crafted using tactics associated with a “Doppelganger” campaign, a Russian-linked disinformation strategy that has been active since 2021. This approach has previously been utilised against nations including France, Germany, and the United States, employing compromising material to politically undermine targets.

    Indicators of a Coordinated Attack

    Intelligence analysis has identified several key indicators suggesting Eastern European involvement:

    • Linguistic Evidence: An individual posing as an investment manager approached the targets, speaking English with a noticeable Eastern European accent.
    • Methodology: The video was disseminated anonymously on the platform X, presented as investigative journalism, and notably lacked any attempt to secure a right of reply from those depicted.
    • Timing: The emergence of the video coincides with significant geopolitical events, including Cyprus’s assumption of the EU Council Presidency, the visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and discussions with US officials regarding the “Andreas Papandreou” airbase.

    Government Response and Investigation Progress

    Since the video’s release, the Cyprus Intelligence Service (KYP) has maintained communication with the Presidential Palace. The allegations suggest that the Christodoulides administration may have engaged in illegal cash donations to surpass a €1 million campaign spending limit, potentially establishing a “pay-for-play” system for corporate interests.

    Lakkotrypis, who was allegedly entangled in the scheme through a fictitious €150 million energy investment from a Dutch fund, provided a formal statement to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) on Friday afternoon. Accompanied by his lawyer, he submitted documents and correspondence relating to his interactions with the fraudulent investors.

    The investigation has since escalated, with the case moving from the Nicosia CID to specialised units at Police Headquarters. The Cybercrime Division and the Forensic Science Department are now working to analyse the digital documents and metadata tied to the anonymous “Emily Thompson” account, aiming to uncover the video’s source.

  • Famagusta gate — Famagusta Gate Set to Reopen as Cultural Hub During EU Council Presidency

    Famagusta gate — Famagusta Gate Set to Reopen as Cultural Hub During EU Council Presidency

    Famagusta gate in Nicosia will soon be revitalised as a cultural venue during the EU council presidency, according to Deputy Culture Minister Vasiliki Kassianidou. At the inauguration of the historic monument’s renovation, she revealed plans for the gate’s active use, coinciding with Cyprus’s hosting of thousands of visitors and officials.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Kassianidou emphasised the importance of promoting Nicosia’s cultural heritage, especially as the capital prepares to be in the spotlight of European attention. She highlighted the gate’s historical significance and the recent restoration efforts, which have been motivated by a desire to reconnect the monument with the city’s contemporary cultural landscape.

    The Famagusta gate, which has been a significant landmark, saw its operation as a cultural centre come to a halt in 2018 due to severe flooding caused by torrential rains. The deputy minister noted that the restoration and maintenance project, which has cost nearly €1 million, aims to restore the gate’s role as a vibrant public space in the historic centre of Nicosia.

    In her address, Kassianidou referenced Nicosia’s recent accolade as the best European capital of culture, a recognition that underscores the city’s commitment to cultural development. She assured that her ministry will continue to support initiatives that protect and promote Nicosia’s diverse heritage, aligning with the broader goals of the EU presidency.

    Antiquities department director Georgeos Georgiou shared insights into the restoration process, which commenced in February 2019. The project focused on two main objectives: conserving the stone and wooden elements of the monument and upgrading essential visitor infrastructure such as lighting, sound systems, and air conditioning. Georgiou noted that these upgrades have already begun to be implemented.

    The conservation efforts have also provided archaeological insights, further enriching the understanding of the monument’s construction and its integration within the medieval urban fabric of Nicosia. With the completion of these works, the Famagusta gate is poised to become a focal point of cultural activity, reflecting both the city’s rich history and its dynamic present.

  • Trimiklini Fish Farm Case Under Police Investigation Following Anti-Corruption Report

    Trimiklini Fish Farm Case Under Police Investigation Following Anti-Corruption Report

    trimiklini fish — The Trimiklini fish farm case is now under police investigation after an anti-corruption authority report flagged possible criminal liability. This report, which raised concerns over illegal water extraction and the operations of a fish farm near Trimiklini, has been referred to the police along with extensive evidence, according to a representative from the attorney-general’s office.

    The investigation stems from findings submitted to the attorney-general’s office on December 22. The report implicated former agriculture minister Nicos Kouyialis and two former department heads, highlighting irregularities in the approval process for water extraction from the Kouris river and permits for the illegal fish farm.

    “We examined the report and we sent it to the police along with the evidence accompanying it for further investigation,” the representative stated, noting that various aspects of the case are already under review. The police have gathered testimonies and drawn conclusions, and the evidence is described as extensive—far more than just a simple box file.

    As the investigation progresses, no specific timeframe has been established for its conclusion. The attorney-general’s representative emphasised the goal of resolving the matter as soon as possible. This case has gained heightened attention recently, especially after MP Irene Charalambides publicly expressed concerns about the Law Office’s handling of the situation, accusing it of “selective inactivity.”

    Charalambides’ criticism followed remarks made by Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou, who indicated that several government actions had not been adequately addressed by the Law Office. In response to these concerns, Charalambides submitted a parliamentary question, seeking clarification on decisions made during an October 2024 meeting at the Law Office, which was attended by the current agriculture minister.

    The anti-corruption authority’s report, released on December 19, 2025, detailed the actions of Kouyialis and the two department heads, Loizos Loizides and Kostas Hadjipanayiotou. It pointed out that Kouyialis had approved a special appeal allowing water extraction from the Kouris river upstream of the Trimiklini reservoir without adhering to proper procedures. Furthermore, he directed water supply directly from the dam without a formal request.

    The report also highlighted that the two department heads had issued licences for the illegal fish farm, stating they had knowingly bypassed legislation and regulations. It accused them of abusing their positions to coordinate the issuance of the necessary permits, reflecting a serious breach of their duties.

    In total, the report indicated potential criminal liability for Kouyialis, Loizides, Hadjipanayiotou, and seven other individuals, some of whom are implicated in multiple cases. As the police investigation unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring accountability and addressing the serious allegations raised by the anti-corruption authority.

  • Strovolos Centre Revamp Begins Monday with Road Closures

    Strovolos Centre Revamp Begins Monday with Road Closures

    strovolos centre — strovolos centre — Works to remodel Strovolos’ historical centre begin on Monday, marking a significant development for the local community. Mayor Stavros Stavrinides has described the initiative as “a milestone project that will radically change the image and functionality of the historical core.” This ambitious endeavour aims to create a more appealing and accessible environment for residents and visitors alike.

    Strovolos centre: Traffic Changes in the Area

    During the construction period, Ayia Marina street and surrounding roads near the church of Saint George will be closed to traffic. Access to Ayia Marina street will be limited to residents and business owners, with parts of the road being temporarily blocked off for sewerage works.

    Project Timeline and Duration

    The works are expected to last six months, with the municipality indicating that the majority of the construction will be completed within three months. Despite the disruptions, rubbish collection in the area will proceed as usual, ensuring minimal inconvenience for the local community.

    Investment and Objectives

    This extensive remodelling project comes with a price tag of €5.6 million, primarily focusing on the historical churches of Strovolos. The initiative aims to enhance safety and accessibility, introducing new pedestrian pathways, improved infrastructure, upgraded aesthetics, and effective flood-prevention solutions.

    EU Support for Local Development

    Implemented under the social cohesion programme Thalia 2021-2027, the project benefits from EU funding, emphasising the commitment to revitalising urban areas and fostering community engagement. The remodelling is poised to breathe new life into the historical centre, making it not only a more attractive destination but also a functional space for everyday activities.

  • Larnaca Taxi Drivers Plan Four-Hour Strike Over Regulatory Demands

    Larnaca Taxi Drivers Plan Four-Hour Strike Over Regulatory Demands

    larnaca taxi — larnaca taxi — Taxi drivers in Larnaca are preparing to stage a four-hour work stoppage on Tuesday, 13 January, from 7am to 11am, as announced by the taxi union (Poat) on Friday. This action comes as part of ongoing frustrations regarding regulatory issues affecting their livelihoods.

    Larnaca taxi: Concerns Over Regulatory Compliance

    Drivers are increasingly worried about the impact of ride-hailing apps operating outside of Larnaca, particularly at the airport. They argue that these services are undermining their business and contributing to a precarious economic situation. The union has expressed that repeated meetings with the transport ministry have not yielded any satisfactory outcomes.

    Potential for Extended Strikes

    The union has indicated that should no immediate action be taken by the authorities, a 24-hour strike will follow on 20 January. Moreover, an indefinite strike is being considered starting from 28 January. This escalation highlights the urgency of the situation as drivers feel they are facing “a question of pure professional survival.”

    Demands for Fair Regulation

    In light of these concerns, the taxi drivers are calling for a halt to the operation of external ride-hailing apps at Larnaca airport, as well as strict enforcement of existing taxi regulations. The union emphasises that the responsibility for any further developments will lie with the authorities, who have not adequately addressed the drivers’ concerns.

    Union’s Position and Responsibility

    The Poat union, representing the taxi drivers, has made it clear that their members feel neglected by the transport ministry. They believe that without timely intervention, their livelihoods are at risk. The union has voiced that the current regulatory environment is not conducive to fair competition, putting local drivers at a disadvantage.

    Impact on Local Transportation

    A four-hour strike could significantly affect local transportation in Larnaca, disrupting both residents and tourists relying on taxi services. The timing of the strike, during morning hours, is likely to coincide with peak demand for transportation to and from the airport and other key locations in the city.

    Community Reactions

    Local business owners and residents have mixed feelings about the strike. Some sympathise with the drivers’ plight, recognising the importance of supporting local businesses. Others express concern about the inconvenience caused by potential transportation disruptions. The community is closely monitoring the situation, with many hoping for a resolution that benefits both drivers and the public.

    Looking Ahead

    The taxi drivers’ situation in Larnaca is a reflection of broader challenges faced by local industries in adapting to new market dynamics, particularly with the rise of technology-driven services. As the situation develops, both the transport ministry and the taxi union will need to engage in meaningful dialogue to seek a resolution that addresses the concerns of all parties involved.

  • Larnaca Man Sentenced to Six Years for Cannabis Possession

    Larnaca Man Sentenced to Six Years for Cannabis Possession

    cannabis possession — A 38-year-old man has been sentenced to six years in prison by the Larnaca criminal court for possessing nearly two kilograms of cannabis. The court determined that he possessed the drugs with the intent to supply.

    On April 6, police executed a search warrant at the man’s residence. During the operation, officers observed him throwing a package of cannabis out of a window in a bid to evade arrest. A further search of the premises revealed an additional package of the drug.

    In court, the defendant argued that the cannabis had been entrusted to him by another individual, citing a personal obligation to safeguard the drugs. Despite his lawyer’s request for leniency based on the man’s personal circumstances, the court dismissed the plea, emphasising the seriousness of the offence.

    This was not the first time the man faced legal consequences for drug-related activities. He had previously served an additional two-year prison sentence for cannabis possession, showcasing a troubling pattern that influenced the court’s decision.

  • Rain and Thunderstorms Set to Hit Cyprus on Friday

    Rain and Thunderstorms Set to Hit Cyprus on Friday

    Rain and thunderstorms are forecast for Cyprus on Friday, bringing a change in the weather. According to the latest predictions, mainly cloudy skies will dominate, with localised rain and isolated thunderstorms expected, particularly in the mountains and northern areas by late afternoon.

    • The sea will be generally rough, with conditions worsening to rough to very rough, particularly along the western and northern coasts.
    • Temperatures are anticipated to gradually rise until Sunday, before experiencing a slight dip on Monday, aligning closely with average climatological values for this time of year.

    Thunderstorms: Winds and Sea Conditions

    Winds will predominantly blow from the south-west to the north-west, ranging from moderate to strong, classified as Force 4-5. In some locations, winds may reach strong to very strong levels, classified as Force 5-6, and at times may even escalate to near gale conditions, peaking at Force 6-7.

    The sea will be generally rough, with conditions worsening to rough to very rough, particularly along the western and northern coasts.

    Temperature Predictions

    Temperature readings on Friday are expected to hover around 15 degrees Celsius inland and on the northern and western coasts. The remaining coastal areas may see slightly warmer temperatures of around 17 degrees, while higher mountain areas could drop to about 6 degrees.

    Weather Outlook for the Weekend

    As the weekend approaches, the forecast indicates a continuation of mainly cloudy weather with occasional local rain and potential isolated thunderstorms. There is also the possibility of hail and even snow in the higher mountains, particularly on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.

    Temperatures are anticipated to gradually rise until Sunday, before experiencing a slight dip on Monday, aligning closely with average climatological values for this time of year.