“Returning” from the front after 50 years
The remains of a missing person from 1974, Charalambos Sarlian from Keramoti, Kavala, a Greek national, have been identified. There are no close living relatives to receive and bury them.
arms
US State Department official resigns, says US report on Gaza inaccurate
Stacy Gilbert, a U.S. State Department official, resigned in protest after a report to Congress falsely claimed that Israel was not blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza. Gilbert, who worked in the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration, stated that the report’s conclusions were incorrect. The report was submitted in accordance with a new National Security Memorandum issued by President Joe Biden. Gilbert’s resignation came after she disagreed with the final version of the report, which she believed did not accurately reflect the situation in Gaza.
Japan sanctions Cyprus-registered firms over alleged Russia support
Two Cyprus-registered companies, IBEX Shipping and Azia Shipping, have been sanctioned by Japan for allegedly aiding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The sanctions target a total of 12 entities and individuals, including the two Cypriot firms, which are registered in central Nicosia. Japanese authorities believe these entities facilitated the arms trade between North Korea and Russia, strengthening Russia’s military capabilities and potentially supporting its war efforts in Ukraine.
Cyprus, Greece advocate EU arms industry for Ukraine aid in funding stalemate
Cyprus and Greece are pushing the European Union to prioritize its own defense industry in providing military aid to Ukraine. Despite an existing agreement allowing arms purchases from non-EU countries, the two countries argue that aid should benefit the European defense sector. Hungary is currently hindering the release of a €500 million package from the European Peace Facility intended for Ukraine’s military, citing concerns about discrimination against Hungarian companies in Ukraine as a reason for blocking the disbursement. Discussions are ongoing to bypass a potential Hungarian veto and expedite the flow of funds to Ukraine.
Spanish dental prosthetist turns home into Taylor Swift ‘sanctuary’ [PHOTOS]
![Spanish dental prosthetist turns home into Taylor Swift ‘sanctuary’ [PHOTOS]](https://ch.jfdi.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/spanish-dental-prosthetist-turns-home-into-taylor-swift-sanctuary-photos.jpg)
Roberto Santos, a 55-year-old superfan of Taylor Swift, has received numerous gifts from the pop icon’s team for his long-standing devotion. Santos’ apartment room is filled with items such as a platinum disk award, signed photos, recordings, and sneakers bearing both their names. Despite not meeting Swift in person yet, Santos feels grateful for the recognition and values she has transmitted through her art. The Swift-themed Eras Tour has also had a positive economic impact on local economies, with hotel occupancy rates in Madrid reaching 90% on concert dates.
Mediaeval aristocratic women brought back to life
The exhibition “Mediaeval Women of Cyprus” is a joint project by two Turkish Cypriots, Ahmet Hilmi and Semra Bayhanli, showcasing seven large canvasses portraying significant women in the island’s mediaeval history.
The $5 trillion AI boom could both succeed and fizzle
Investors are pouring billions of dollars into AI companies, with the market capitalization of major tech giants increasing significantly since the release of ChatGPT in November 2022. However, the income generated by AI remains relatively small compared to the investments being made. The promise of future riches has led to forecasts of up to trillion needed for advanced semiconductors, data centers, and power to train and run AI models. Similar investment booms have occurred in the past with industries like railways and telecom, but they often resulted in financial disappointment for investors. The AI boom also comes with risks such as the short lifespan of AI models, potential commoditization of advances, and government regulations that could limit profits.
Troodos residents , ‘should not be second-class citizens’
The fact described in the text is that the Troodos region in Cyprus only has one hospital, making it the only choice for residents in the area.
Origins of recovered military-grade weapons investigated
– The G3 military rifle found in an Oroklini cemetery did not originate from the national guard, but likely came from the Turkish army.
– The recovered weapons included a rocket launcher, cartridges, a pistol with a silencer, and improvised explosive devices, one of which was connected to a mobile phone.
– The bust was described as possibly the largest number of weapons and explosives found in Cyprus to date.
– Two men, aged 46 and 35, were remanded in connection with the case after being seen taking items from the grave where the weapons were stored.
– Police are examining all possibilities regarding the origin and purposes for which the arms were intended.
Analysis: Israel’s allies grapple with bid for ICC warrant against Netanyahu
International Criminal Court Prosecutor Karim Khan has requested an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, causing a diplomatic dilemma for key member states who must balance support for Israel with backing the ICC’s actions. Some capitals, such as Paris, London, and Berlin, were informed beforehand about the plans, but many have not disclosed how they will respond if warrants are issued. Germany, in particular, faces challenges due to its support for Israel’s security and the ICC prosecutor’s independence. U.S. President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken have criticized the move, while European countries like Britain and Italy are divided over the issue. The ICC has jurisdiction over the conflict between Israel and Hamas since October 7, 2022, despite Israel not being a member of the court. The international community’s response to the arrest warrants will be crucial for the ICC’s credibility and the rule of law.