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Russia stages major airstrike on Ukraine; one missile enters Polish airspace

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Russia stages major airstrike on Ukraine; one missile enters Polish airspace

– Russia conducted a missile strike on critical infrastructure in Lviv, Ukraine, and also targeted Kyiv.
– One Russian cruise missile entered Polish airspace according to Warsaw.
– Moscow launched 57 missiles and drones in the attack.
– Lviv’s regional governor, Maksym Kozytskyi, reported two hits on a critical infrastructure facility in Lviv using Kinzhal hypersonic missiles.
– The energy ministry reported a critical energy facility in Lviv was attacked, causing a fire and power loss.
– Ukraine’s air defenses destroyed 18 of 29 inbound missiles and 25 of 28 attack drones.
– The attacks on Ukraine’s energy system led to widespread blackouts and a halt in electricity exports from Ukraine.
– In Kyiv, air defenses destroyed about a dozen missiles, resulting in only minor damage.
– The attacks are portrayed by Moscow as retaliation for Ukrainian actions during Russia’s presidential election.
– A downed Kh-55 cruise missile was found in a Kyiv park.
– Poland reported a Russian cruise missile violated its airspace, staying for 39 seconds and traveling about 2 km inside.
– Poland demanded an explanation from Moscow and pledged continued support for Ukraine.

Israel besieges two more Gaza hospitals, 5 doctors killed

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Israel besieges two more Gaza hospitals, 5 doctors killed

Israeli forces besieged two Gaza hospitals, leading to the evacuation of patients and displaced people sheltering there. The Palestinian Red Crescent reported heavy gunfire and shelling around Al-Amal and Nasser hospitals in Khan Younis, resulting in the death of one of its staff and a displaced Palestinian. Israeli forces demanded the complete evacuation of Al-Amal Hospital and fired smoke bombs to facilitate this. The Red Crescent evacuated patients and displaced people to Al Mawasi. Israeli forces also formed a cordon around Nasser Hospital. The Israeli military claimed to have captured 480 militants in a raid on Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, where dozens of patients and medical staffers were detained, and five Palestinian doctors were reported killed. The health ministry in Gaza reported over 32,226 Palestinians killed and 74,518 injured since the beginning of the conflict on October 7, triggered by a Hamas-led incursion into southern Israel. Concerted mediation efforts for a ceasefire and aid to Gaza civilians have not yet been successful.

Car fire causes traffic on Larnaca-Nicosia highway

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Car fire causes traffic on Larnaca-Nicosia highway

A fire occurred in a car on the Larnaca-Nicosia highway between Athienou and Lympia around 4pm while the car was heading towards Nicosia. Police responded to the scene to assist and manage traffic, advising drivers to be cautious, drive at a safe, low speed, and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.

Seeking a new role in the region

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Seeking a new role in the region

After six months of Israeli airstrikes and ground operations in Gaza, countering the deadly October 7 Hamas attacks, EU leaders called for a cease-fire. The Palestinians in Gaza have been suffering from starvation, lack of medical supplies, and the harsh rule of Hamas militants, with hospitals and schools being constantly targeted. The Cypriot ‘Amalthia’ initiative has opened a maritime aid corridor to Gaza, with the first supply of food relief reaching the Palestinians and a second shipment ready. Air drops continue from Jordan, and efforts are ongoing to open more land border crossings from Egypt. Cyprus has a history of humanitarian relief efforts and has evacuated foreign nationals from Lebanon, Sudan, and helped end the siege of the Church of Nativity in Bethlehem in 2002. Cyprus has developed diplomatic channels and trust with neighboring countries, primarily focused on energy issues. The U.S. views Israel as a key ally in the region, while western powers tolerate Turkey’s actions, including its involvement in Syria and the Russia-Ukraine war. Cyprus has not invested in major defense purchases and lacks air and naval support to safeguard its Exclusive Economic Zone. Cyprus aims to remain proactive in regional matters, seeking full support from EU partners and western powers, aiming to lead in diplomatic and humanitarian initiatives without nepotism influencing appointments.

Man remanded in Nicosia car arson case

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Man remanded in Nicosia car arson case

A 40-year-old man was remanded into custody under suspicion of being involved in a suspected car arson. Police received testimony against him for allegedly being involved in setting a car on fire in an open lot on Friday night at 7pm. He appeared in court on Saturday and was remanded for eight days.

Death and fear stoked hell in Moscow attack, witnesses say

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Death and fear stoked hell in Moscow attack, witnesses say

Four armed men attacked Crocus City Hall outside Moscow, killing more than 143 people and injuring dozens in the deadliest attack in Russia since the 2004 Beslan school siege. The attackers, wearing camouflage and combat vests, fired at civilians and set the building on fire, leading to a massive blaze that gutted the hall. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack. The Federal Security Service (FSB) detained 11 people in connection with the incident, denying any involvement from Kyiv.

Disy will be , ‘victorious’ in upcoming elections

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Disy will be , ‘victorious’ in upcoming elections

Political party Disy, led by Annita Demetriou, is expected to win in the local and EU elections on June 9, despite facing significant opposition. During a speech where Disy’s MEP candidates and local government candidates for Larnaca district were presented, Demetriou highlighted the challenges the party is facing from various directions aimed at undermining its achievements. She emphasized the party’s resilience and determination to defend its values and achievements against those underestimating or betraying it. Demetriou also mentioned the departure of former party vice-president Marios Pelekanos, who joined nationalist Elam for the EU elections. She described Disy as a reformist political force that played a crucial role in Cyprus’s integration into the European Union, honoring the party’s founder Glafcos Clerides. Demetriou expressed confidence in Disy’s victory in the upcoming elections, emphasizing the importance of this win for representing the interests of the people, Cyprus, and Larnaca.

Nothing justifies terror says Cyprus president

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Nothing justifies terror says Cyprus president

President Nikos Christodoulides condemned the terrorist attack in Moscow, stating that “nothing justifies terror.” Cyprus joined other countries in condemning the attack, which occurred on Friday night and resulted in over 90 deaths. The president expressed condolences on X (formerly known as Twitter), extending thoughts to the families and loved ones of the victims. The foreign ministry also condemned the attack, specifically mentioning it occurred at Crocus City Hall in Moscow, expressing shock and condolences. The attack, claimed by Islamic State militants, involved gunmen opening fire at concertgoers, killing at least 60 people and injuring 145. This incident, occurring just before a performance by Soviet-era rock group Picnic at Crocus City Hall, is the deadliest attack in Russia since the 2004 Beslan school siege.

‘No Cypriots die’ in Moscow terror attack

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‘No Cypriots die’ in Moscow terror attack

No Cypriots have been reported among the victims of a terrorist attack in Moscow, according to foreign ministry spokesman Theodoros Gotsis. The Cypriot embassy in Moscow is in contact with Russian authorities regarding the attack, which has claimed dozens of lives and left scores wounded. The embassy had previously warned Cypriots in Moscow of a heightened risk for terrorist attacks. The attack, claimed by Islamic State militants, occurred near Moscow, killing at least 143 people and injuring 145. This incident is the deadliest attack in Russia since the 2004 Beslan school siege.

Gunmen kill more than 60 in concert attack near Moscow, Islamic State claims responsibility (updated)

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Gunmen kill more than 60 in concert attack near Moscow, Islamic State claims responsibility (updated)

Camouflage-clad gunmen attacked concertgoers near Moscow, killing at least 60 people and injuring 145. The attack, claimed by Islamic State militants, is the deadliest in Russia since the 2004 Beslan school siege. The incident occurred just before the Soviet-era rock group “Picnic” was to perform at the Crocus City Hall. Videos showed people fleeing amidst gunfire. Russian investigators confirmed the death toll, and health officials reported about 145 wounded, with 60 in critical condition. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack, stating its fighters caused destruction and casualties before withdrawing. The United States confirmed Islamic State’s claim and mentioned having warned Russia of a potential attack. The attack on Crocus City Hall happened two weeks after the U.S. embassy in Russia warned of an imminent extremist attack in Moscow. Russia tightened security nationwide following the incident.