Underdogs Dortmund bank on solid defence against Real
Borussia Dortmund are clear underdogs in the Champions League final against Real Madrid, but they have been more consistent in Europe despite finishing fifth in the Bundesliga.
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Government approves subsidised holidays for pensioners and employees
The Council of Ministers approved two subsidised holiday schemes to boost domestic tourism and support low-income residents. The Low-Income Pensioners’ Holiday Subsidy Scheme offers free four-day stays in mountain resorts and Pyrgos Tillyrias for eligible individuals. The Employed Persons’ Leave Subsidy Scheme provides fully subsidised six-day stays for employed persons who received leave benefits in 2023. Labor Minister Yiannis Panagiotou stated that the aim of the schemes is to provide quality services to low-income residents and employees, while supporting mountain resorts and off-season tourism. Application procedures will be announced by the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance.
Qatar, other suitors interested in Larnaca marina
Interest in Larnaca’s marina and port remains high despite the divorce between the Government and Kition Ocean Holdings. The Emir of Qatar has shown interest in the project, along with other suitors within the country. The proposal to separate the project and focus on the marina has gained ground, with the Government open to discussions and forming a working group to expedite the process. The Larnaca Municipality demands greater involvement in the project’s future, with plans for a committee to conduct a techno-economic study. The matter will be discussed in the House Transport Committee, and the Ministry of Transport will take over the management of the marina.
Olympiakos, beat Fiorentina in extra time to win Europa Conference League
Olympiakos beat Fiorentina 1-0 in the Europa Conference League final with a late winner from Ayoub El Kaabi, giving the Greek club their first major European trophy.
EU markets watchdog warns companies over calls with analysts
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) advised companies not to share market sensitive information with external analysts before financial statements are released.
‘Demetroui’ died of sepsis, autopsy reveals
Demetris Andronikou, also known as Demetroui, died of peritonitis and sepsis, complicating his hospitalization after multiple gunshot wounds. He was well known to police for his activities linked to the underworld.
Our View: Scooter ban: Elitism or safety concerns?
A 13-year-old boy was seriously injured in Limassol in an accident involving a scooter, prompting a deputy to suggest banning scooters if safety measures are not enforced.
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.
Limassol mayoral debate ends with fracas
During a mayoral debate in Limassol, a citizen complained to Mayor Nicos Nicolaides about the cleanliness of a plot of land, leading to a tense altercation outside the Laniteio Amphitheatre. Police intervened as the situation escalated, with reports of pushing and shoving among those present. An individual reported being punched by an unknown person, and the case is now under investigation by the Minor Offences Department of the Limassol Police Directorate.
Israel sends tanks into Rafah on raids amid Gaza-wide offensive
Israeli tanks continued to raid Rafah for a second day, defying the World Court’s order to end attacks on the city. The United States did not believe a major ground operation was underway, despite Israel’s incursion into Rafah. Residents reported Israeli tanks entering various areas before retreating towards the border with Egypt. The Palestinian health ministry called for immediate healthcare assistance in Rafah and northern Gaza, where hospitals had stopped functioning. UNRWA reported that around a million Palestinians had fled after Israeli evacuation orders. The Red Crescent Society evacuated medical teams due to ongoing bombardments. The World Court criticized Israel for not ensuring the safety and well-being of the evacuees from Rafah. Israel proposed a ceasefire and hostage release to Qatar, but Hamas insisted talks were pointless unless Israel ended its offensive on Rafah. Over 36,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s Gaza offensive.