WHO

For some Columbia students, protest encampment is living history lesson

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For some Columbia students, protest encampment is living history lesson

Students at Columbia University set up a pro-Palestinian protest encampment on campus, inspired by a course called “Columbia 1968” about past protests. The encampment led to arrests and suspensions by the school administration, but protesters continue to demand divestment from companies supporting Israel. The protests have drawn support from various groups and have sparked debates and activities on campus. Despite criticism, students remain committed to their cause.

INSIGHT-As solar capacity grows, some of America’s most productive farmland is at risk

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INSIGHT-As solar capacity grows, some of America’s most productive farmland is at risk

Dave Duttlinger leased 445 acres of his Indiana farm to Dunns Bridge Solar LLC for a solar development project, despite concerns about damage to his land. The solar panels were installed on some of the most productive cropland classified by the USDA, impacting future crop potential. Solar energy firms argue that the industry’s use of farmland is minimal compared to the need for renewable energy to combat climate change. Indiana farmer Norm Welker found leasing his land for a solar project more profitable than growing corn due to low prices.

Police spokesman describes murder attempt case as complex

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Police spokesman describes murder attempt case as complex

Police Spokesman Christos Andreou described the attempted murder case in Anthoupoli as complex and difficult. 9 arrests have been made, including 3 Greek Cypriots and 6 foreigners, after searches in Nicosia and Limassol. A large number of documents believed to be related to the case were collected. The individuals will appear in court for remand. Investigators are continuing their work to secure necessary testimony. Scientific examinations are awaited for further investigative work. Andreou stated that all possibilities are open in determining the perpetrators of the crime.

Investigation over Drousiotis’ book intensifies

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Investigation over Drousiotis’ book intensifies

The Independent Authority against Corruption is investigating allegations made in the book “State Mafia” by journalist Makarios Drousiotis. Former officials and Members of Parliament will be summoned to testify, including former Attorney General Kostas Clerides, former MP Averof Neophytou, and others. The focus of the investigation is on the case of Russian oligarch Dmitry Rybolovlev. Former President Nikos Anastasiades has filed a lawsuit against Drousiotis for defamation, seeking €2,000,000 in damages. Drousiotis claims this is a distraction from his ongoing testimony before the Anti-Corruption Authority.

President expresses disappointment over National Council leaks

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President expresses disappointment over National Council leaks

The President expressed disappointment over leaks from members of the National Council. President Christodoulides stated that certain matters discussed and agreed upon in the National Council were not adhered to by some members, which he finds concerning. The President also mentioned that efforts are ongoing to resume negotiations for the Cyprus issue, with the EU playing an important role. Additionally, he clarified that there is no difference between sovereignty equality and the solution of two states. The President confirmed that he is in constant contact with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, who recently visited Turkey.

Russian missiles pound Ukrainian power plants in escalating campaign

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Russian missiles pound Ukrainian power plants in escalating campaign

A Russian missile attack targeted power facilities in Ukraine, causing damage and fires. Ukrainian air defenses were able to intercept some of the incoming missiles. The attacks have led to a significant loss of power generation capacity in Ukraine. The United States approved a major aid package for Ukraine, including new weapons for air defense systems.

Stricter oversight on cross-border credit services

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Stricter oversight on cross-border credit services

The processes for licensing and supervision of credit managers are becoming stricter, with new legislation being introduced to harmonize national law with European directives. Credit managers must be licensed by their member state of origin before starting their activities, meeting specific conditions such as robust governance and protection rules for borrowers. Buyers will not be licensed, except for those managing their own portfolios. Credit buyers will be supervised by the Central Bank and subject to penalties for any violations. Companies in the debt acquisition sector will be automatically recognized as licensed credit managers. The bills also ensure consumer protection, including timely information on credit agreement changes and the right to raise defenses against loan buyers.

Landmark legal battle unfolds in Cyprus

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Landmark legal battle unfolds in Cyprus

The Attorney General of Cyprus has filed a petition to the Supreme Constitutional Court seeking the dismissal of Auditor General Odysseas Michaelides for inappropriate conduct. This legal battle will involve top legal professionals and is based on a regulatory provision from 2021. The case is unique as there is limited case law on requests for dismissal due to inappropriate behavior, with the only previous case involving former Deputy Attorney General Rikkos Erotocritou, who was criminally convicted. The Constitution does not clearly define what constitutes inappropriate behavior for the dismissal of officials at this level of constitutional protection. The Auditor General has 21 days to file an objection to the request for dismissal, and if the case reaches a hearing, old cases handled by the Legal Service will be brought up, with witnesses called to testify.

Socialist supporters call on Spanish prime minister to stay

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Socialist supporters call on Spanish prime minister to stay

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez considered resigning after a court launched a business corruption probe into his wife’s private dealings. However, thousands of Socialist Party supporters gathered in Madrid to urge him to stay, denying the allegations against his wife and stating he will announce his decision on Monday. Opposition parties condemned Sanchez’s move, while Madrid’s prosecuting authority appealed the court’s decision to investigate the complaint against his wife.