Cyprus

On August 30, 2026, a ferry carrying 267 people (259 passengers and 8 crew) capsized off Kyrenia, Northern Cyprus, en route to Mersin, Turkey, after water ingress during stormy weather. At least eight died and 18 remain missing. Survivors accused the crew of negligence, including locked escape routes and the captain fleeing. Northern Cyprus authorities arrested the captain and seven crew members, launching investigations into the vessel’s seaworthiness and safety.

5 reports · 2 sources · Updated Aug 31, 11:09 AM UTC

A Turkish catamaran, the Filojet, carrying approximately 270 passengers and crew capsized off Kyrenia, northern Cyprus, on Sunday. At least seven people died and 23 remain missing, while 237 were rescued. The vessel departed for Tasucu, Turkey, but began taking on water immediately. Search and rescue operations involving Turkish and Turkish Cypriot coastguard and helicopters are ongoing. The cause is under investigation, though severe storms occurred the previous day.

9 reports · 3 sources · Updated Aug 31, 02:00 PM UTC

In the second leg of the UEFA Champions League second qualifying round, Kairat Almaty hosted Cypriot side Omonia Nicosia. Kairat played with a one-man advantage from the 26th minute after an Omonia red card, and took a 1-0 lead in regular time through a goal by Edmilson, forcing extra time. In the 112th minute, Omonia's central defender Senou Coulibaly received a second yellow card and was sent off, leaving the visitors with nine men. Despite the two-man advantage, Kairat could not score a winner, and the match went to a penalty shootout. The shootout lasted seven rounds, with Kairat winning 6-5. Kazakh goalkeeper Anarbekov saved the decisive penalty from Cypriot defender Papanayiotou in the final round, sending Kairat through to the third qualifying round.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 29, 07:21 PM UTC

Eni and TotalEnergies have taken the final investment decision to develop the Cronos gas field in deep waters offshore Cyprus, marking the Mediterranean country's first hydrocarbon development. The Cronos field, located in Block 6, holds more than 3 trillion cubic feet of gas initially in place. Production is expected to reach a plateau of around 500 million cubic feet per day, equivalent to about 2.8 million tons of LNG per year. First gas is targeted for 2028. The gas will be transported and processed at existing Zohr facilities in Egypt, then liquefied at Egypt's Damietta LNG plant for export to international markets, primarily Europe. Eni operates the project with a 50% stake, while TotalEnergies holds the other 50%. Both companies will market their respective shares of LNG. The project positions Cyprus as an emerging European gas producer and supports the establishment of a regional gas hub in the Eastern Mediterranean.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 09:30 AM UTC

Eurosport will broadcast the World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event live from Las Vegas for the first time ever, covering all three days of the final table starting August 3-4, 2026, from 3 a.m. to 6 a.m. German time. The winner will receive a diamond-encrusted gold bracelet and a $10 million prize. Commentary will be provided by Michael Körner from Munich. German hopes were dashed as Hossein Ensan finished 13th and Tolga Karakaya 11th, leaving no German champion this year. The nine finalists, each already guaranteed $1 million, include players from the USA, Canada, France, Finland, and Cyprus.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 27, 06:54 AM UTC

Eurosport will broadcast the World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event live from Las Vegas for the first time in Germany, covering all three days of the final table starting August 3-4, 2026, from 3 to 6 a.m. The winner will receive a $10 million prize and a diamond-encrusted gold bracelet. Nine players have already secured $1 million each. The final table includes players from the USA, Canada, France, Finland, and Cyprus. German players Hossein Ensan and Tolga Karakaya were eliminated in 13th and 11th place respectively, ending German hopes for a fourth world champion. Commentary will be provided by Michael Körner from Munich.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 27, 06:54 AM UTC

Two Airbus H145 Jupiter HC Mk2 helicopters have been delivered to the UK's 84 Squadron in Cyprus under a £148 million Ministry of Defence programme. The aircraft, which replaced the retired Puma HC2, will perform emergency response, aerial firefighting, troop transport, medical evacuation, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. The delivery is part of a six-helicopter contract that supports 250 UK jobs at Airbus in Oxford. Two additional aircraft are operated by the Army Air Corps in Brunei. The MOD states the programme went from contract to operational capability in two years, advancing the UK's Defence Rotary Wing Strategy to rationalize helicopter types and reduce costs. Officials praised the collaborative effort between the MOD and industry for delivering a modern, versatile capability at pace.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 26, 08:00 AM UTC

AS Saint-Étienne (ASSE) is close to reaching an agreement with Cypriot club Aris Limassol for the transfer of central defender Mickaël Nadé. According to Foot Mercato, Aris Limassol has made an interesting offer, and negotiations with ASSE management are nearly complete. The 27-year-old veteran, who is under contract until 2028, was recently excluded from the squad for a friendly match in Glasgow, signaling his impending departure. However, the transfer still requires Nadé's personal approval. The move would see the defender leave Ligue 2 for the Cypriot First Division this summer.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 24, 03:15 PM UTC

The beach of Paço de Arcos, Oeiras, Portugal, will host the 1924 Pharoes Beach Sprints International Trophy from July 24 to 26, 2026, a top coastal rowing competition. The event features 250 athletes from 31 countries, including Portugal, and serves as a key milestone two years before Beach Sprints debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. Races involve a sand run, 500-meter slalom, and beach finish. Portuguese athletes won three gold medals in the 2025 edition, highlighting the nation's rising prominence. The Portuguese Rowing Federation, led by Luís Faria, emphasizes the event's international significance. The competition is supported by the Portuguese Navy and the IOC, which is using the event to aid seven developing nations in the sport. The 2027 Beach Sprints World Championship is also scheduled for Oeiras.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 10:14 PM UTC

The European Commission is set to unveil a major reform of the EU's Emissions Trading System (ETS), responding to industry pressure from countries like Italy, Poland, and Greece, while Nordic states and Spain resist weakening climate goals. France and Germany will hold a joint ministerial council to reset defence cooperation, including nuclear deterrence talks, amid political uncertainty in France. Ukraine's President Zelenskyy appointed EU ambassador Vsevolod Chentsov as deputy PM for European integration and replaced the defence minister. The EU appointed Raffaele Fitto as special representative for Cyprus, drawing criticism from Turkish Cypriots. EU migration chief Magnus Brunner urged tighter restrictions on Russian visas, noting France and Italy issued the highest numbers in 2025.

1 reports · 1 sources

The European Union has appointed Raffaele Fitto, an executive vice-president of the European Commission, as its special representative for renewed Cyprus settlement talks, signaling a major political push to resolve Europe's longest-running frozen conflict. Cyprus has welcomed the appointment but insists Fitto will need a full-scale EU task force to address key issues such as the economy, welfare state, and property rights for hundreds of thousands displaced since the 1974 Turkish invasion. The appointment has drawn a cold response from Turkish Cypriots, who called it 'unilateral and illegitimate' and questioned Fitto's neutrality, while Turkey described it as an internal EU matter but urged Fitto to change the bloc's 'partisan position'. Talks are expected under the '5+1' format involving Greek Cypriots, Turkish Cypriots, guarantor powers Greece, Turkey, and the UK, and the UN. The EU backs a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation, while Turkey increasingly supports a two-state solution.

1 reports · 1 sources

The new EU Common European Asylum System (GEAS), which took effect on June 12, 2026, aims to reduce irregular migration and distribute asylum seekers more fairly among member states. However, an EU report reveals that Italy has rejected all 12 transfer requests from Germany and other EU countries in the first three weeks, undermining a key return mechanism. Under the new rules, such rejections are no longer permitted. The EU Commission acknowledged Italy's broader implementation efforts but demanded it stop blocking actual transfers. Cyprus and Spain are complying, while Greece's performance is still under assessment. Non-compliant countries risk losing their claim to solidarity support. The report is preliminary, with a comprehensive analysis due in October.

1 reports · 1 sources

Radoslaw Majecki, the 26-year-old Polish goalkeeper under contract with AS Monaco until 2028, is set to be loaned out for a second time. After an unsuccessful loan spell at Brest where he lost his starting position to Grégoire Coudert, Majecki has received permission to travel to Cyprus for a medical examination with Paphos. The deal is structured as a one-year loan with a purchase option of €2.5 million, plus up to €500,000 in bonuses and a 15% sell-on clause for Monaco. Majecki had briefly returned to Monaco's preseason training in La Turbie before the move was arranged.

1 reports · 1 sources

The European Central Bank (ECB) has selected 36 payment service providers (PSPs) from across the euro area to participate in a digital euro pilot exercise. The pilot, scheduled to start in the second half of 2027 and last 12 months, will test the digital euro's technical functionality, operational processes, and user experience. Over 50 applications were received from banks and non-bank providers, reflecting strong market interest. Selected participants span diverse business models, sizes, and geographical coverage. The pilot will use a beta version of the digital euro without legal tender status. It will involve ECB and 19 national central banks, with staff testing person-to-person and person-to-business payments both online and offline. The initiative supports preparatory work for a potential digital euro issuance, aiming to strengthen the European payments landscape.

1 reports · 1 sources

Experts have issued a warning regarding the severe impact of plastic pollution on marine life in the Mediterranean, specifically highlighting the risks to sea turtles. Data from the Barcelona-based CRAM Foundation reveals that 98 sea turtles were treated last year, with the majority having ingested plastic waste. Analysis of 63 samples, including feces and necropsy results, confirmed the presence of plastic in 74 percent of cases. While ingestion was not directly cited as the cause of death, it led to severe enteritis, causing pain, appetite loss, and weakened immune systems, which delays recovery. Young Caretta caretta turtles are particularly vulnerable, with plastic detected in 64 percent of their samples. Additionally, ten cases of entanglement in marine debris or abandoned fishing gear were recorded in 2025, resulting in four surgical amputations. The foundation emphasizes that plastic poses both physical and chemical threats by transporting toxic substances. With over 1,400 turtles treated since its inception, the organization calls for urgent action to reduce marine plastic waste and protect vulnerable species across the Mediterranean basin.

1 reports · 1 sources

This opinion piece critiques the Cypriot government's new strategic plan, titled 'Stability with Perspective: A European Base with Global Reach,' which aims to strengthen the country's international image through a coordinated PR campaign with Invest Cyprus. The author argues that this initiative is a costly attempt to mask deep-seated systemic issues rather than resolve them. The article highlights a history of corruption scandals, including the 2013 financial crash, golden passport schemes, and recent controversies like 'videogate' and the 'Sandy' debacle. It further points to practical failures such as environmental destruction, lax building inspections, and an inefficient public service. The author contends that bringing in foreign agencies like the FBI and ATF for high-profile investigations serves only as a publicity stunt that undermines confidence in the state's competence. Ultimately, the piece asserts that national prestige cannot be manufactured through marketing but must stem from genuine institutional integrity and effective governance, noting that Cyprus is currently declining across various performance indices.

1 reports · 1 sources

Veteran Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa has expressed enthusiasm about what he anticipates will be his final chapter with the national team as he competes for a spot in his sixth consecutive FIFA World Cup. The 40-year-old, currently playing for Limassol in Cyprus, was named in Mexico's 55-man preliminary squad submitted to FIFA. Ochoa, who participated in the previous five tournaments since 2006, emphasized his physical and mental readiness to contribute on the pitch despite his age. He acknowledged the difficulty of securing a place in the final 26-man roster, which head coach Javier Aguirre must finalize by June 1. As Mexico prepares to co-host the 2026 World Cup alongside the United States and Canada, Ochoa urged team unity amidst selection debates. Mexico is scheduled to open their campaign against South Africa on June 11 in Group A, with upcoming friendlies against Ghana, Australia, and Serbia serving as final preparations for the historic home tournament.

1 reports · 1 sources

Customs officials in Cyprus reported that approximately 200 to 300 smuggling and illicit trade violations occur each month at crossing points between government-controlled areas and the north. George Constantinou, spokesperson for the customs department, stated that these crossings have been a focal point for enforcement since 2003, with the department acting as the guardian of the European Commission's Green Line regulation. The majority of seized items involve small quantities of tobacco, fuel, and animal produce, the latter checked strictly due to livestock disease risks. Authorities highlighted a more serious challenge posed by unauthorized crossing points along the buffer zone, where larger volumes of goods are moved outside official controls by organized networks. These networks often traffic tobacco products from the north into government-controlled areas and onward to high-tax markets like the United Kingdom. While drug seizures occur, they typically involve small quantities for personal use, with larger trafficking routes linked to airports and courier services. In response, customs authorities have intensified inspections on vehicles and pedestrians and called for increased monitoring of unauthorized routes to mitigate illegal trade and health risks.

1 reports · 1 sources

On Friday evening, the fire brigade and police were mobilized to an apartment block in the Latsia area of Nicosia, Cyprus, following reports of smoke and flames. The incident prompted the immediate evacuation of residents as a precautionary measure while firefighters worked to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to adjacent units. One resident described the event as sudden and alarming, noting that people rushed into the streets as smoke filled parts of the building. Initial reports indicated that strong winds in the area complicated efforts to bring the fire under control. At the time of reporting, the cause of the fire remained unknown, with investigations scheduled to commence once the scene was secured. No confirmed information regarding injuries was available. The response involved coordinated efforts between emergency services to ensure public safety and mitigate property damage in the residential neighborhood.

1 reports · 1 sources

The Famagusta Police in Cyprus have issued a public wanted notice for a 26-year-old Palestinian national, identified as Abdalarhman Esaifan. The appeal was released on Friday as part of an ongoing investigation into serious criminal offenses allegedly committed over a three-year period. Authorities state that the suspect is sought to assist with investigations relating to crimes committed on unspecified dates between 2023 and May 6, 2026. The specific nature of the alleged offenses has not been disclosed by the police. To aid in locating the suspect, the wanted notice includes a photograph of Esaifan. Law enforcement officials have urged anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to come forward. Individuals possessing relevant details are requested to contact the Famagusta police station directly at 23803080, visit their nearest police station, or call the citizen’s hotline at 1460. This development highlights active police efforts to resolve cases involving serious criminal activity in the Famagusta district through public assistance and media appeals.

1 reports · 1 sources

Diplomatic missions stationed in Cyprus have issued a joint statement warning of a concerning global rollback in LGBT rights. Released by the Cyprus chapter of Diplomats for Equality ahead of the International Day Against Homophobia, the declaration was signed by 26 diplomatic missions and European institutions, including representatives from Australia, Britain, Canada, France, and the European Commission. The signatories expressed deep concern over increasing restrictions on LGBT communities worldwide, such as limits on freedom of expression, inclusive education, and civil society activities. While highlighting these global challenges, the statement specifically urged Cyprus to capitalize on its current EU Council presidency and UN Human Rights Council membership by adopting a national LGBT equality strategy, which is reportedly in its final stages. The diplomats praised local organizations like Accept – LGBTI Cyprus and Queer Cyprus Association for their advocacy efforts. Furthermore, they encouraged employers to implement diversity training and equality-based workplace policies. Members of the Diplomats for Equality network announced their participation in upcoming Pride marches in Nicosia as part of Cyprus Pride Month 2026, demonstrating continued solidarity with the local LGBTQ+ community and affirming universal human rights.

1 reports · 1 sources

Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa defeated Uzbek prodigy Javokhir Sindarov in the second round of the Super Chess Classic 2026 tournament in Romania. This victory marks a significant milestone as it is Sindarov's first loss in classical chess in eight months, ending an impressive unbeaten run that included winning the Candidates tournament without a defeat. Playing with the white pieces, Sindarov resigned after 42 moves, having trailed on the clock and suffered material disadvantages from the early stages of the game. Commentators noted an uncharacteristic calculation error by Sindarov on move 36 as the turning point. The match highlights a continuing rivalry between the two young grandmasters, who previously clashed in the Candidates tournament in Cyprus. Since his Candidates victory, Sindarov has shown signs of vulnerability, including recent rapid and blitz losses to World Champion D Gukesh. Praggnanandhaa expressed satisfaction with his performance, acknowledging the difficulty of beating Sindarov given his recent terrifying form. The result underscores a shift in momentum between these top-tier competitors as they navigate the elite chess circuit.

1 reports · 1 sources

Fidias Panayiotou, leader of the Direct Democracy of Cyprus party, has accused President Nikos Christodoulides of indirectly interfering in the ongoing parliamentary election campaign. The accusation stems from recent comments made by the President during an interview with Alpha TV, where he expressed concern over Panayiotou’s potential participation in the National Council. Christodoulides warned that some actors attempt to discredit institutions to present themselves as saviors, suggesting such involvement could degrade the Council. In a video response, Panayiotou criticized the President for contradicting his stance on non-interference, asserting that his movement would act responsibly and seek cooperation rather than confrontation. He emphasized that his entry into parliament aims to work for the good of Cyprus. The Presidential Palace subsequently addressed the issue, with government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis firmly rejecting the allegations. Letymbiotis stated that the President remains uninvolved in the pre-election process and does not reference specific political forces, affirming that society is the ultimate judge of the electoral outcome.

1 reports · 1 sources

A joint environmental initiative led by the deputy migration ministry resulted in the planting of 115 trees at the Pournara migrant reception centre in Cyprus on Friday. The event was organized in collaboration with the non-profit organization Reforest Nicosia, which provided technical guidance on species selection and planting preparation. The activity involved centre residents, staff, and representatives from partner organizations including the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA), Frontex, the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), and CODECA. Specifically, 62 cypress and 53 pine trees were planted to improve the environmental quality of the facility. The initiative also aimed to foster participation and cooperation among those living and working at the centre. Additional support came from Elysee Irrigation Ltd, which donated irrigation materials and trees, while Vela Cyprus organized activities for children. Participating residents received certificates recognizing their contribution. According to the asylum service, this marked the first organized tree planting activity at the centre, highlighting a collaborative effort to enhance both the physical environment and social cohesion within the migrant reception facility.

1 reports · 1 sources

Turkey is preparing new legislation that would authorize President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to declare an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) extending up to 200 nautical miles from the Anatolian coast. This move directly impacts ongoing maritime disputes with Cyprus and Greece in the Eastern Mediterranean. The draft bill, developed by the ruling AKP party, aims to strengthen Ankara's legal standing regarding fishing, drilling, and mining rights in contested waters. While the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea allows for such zones, Turkey has not ratified the convention and rejects Greek claims that islands generate full EEZs. Ankara argues that Cyprus's maritime rights are limited to 12 nautical miles. This legislative effort comes amidst heightened tensions, with the EU threatening sanctions over Turkish drilling activities and the US urging dialogue. Additionally, reports indicate Turkey is developing a naval variant of the TAI Hurjet aircraft to enhance its maritime operational capabilities. The situation underscores the complex geopolitical struggle for energy resources and maritime sovereignty in the Levant region.

1 reports · 1 sources

Cyprus Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas attended a graduation ceremony at the Evangelos Florakis naval base in Mari, marking the completion of training for the 86th class of the Underwater Demolition Team (OYK). The event saw new recruits formally join the National Guard's specialized maritime units after undergoing intensive preparation for amphibious and maritime operations. During his address, Minister Palmas emphasized Cyprus's commitment to enhancing regional stability and safeguarding national sovereign rights amidst a geopolitical landscape marked by instability and lingering consequences of the Turkish invasion. He highlighted ongoing government efforts to modernize defense infrastructure, including upgrades to naval and air facilities, to reinforce the country's strategic presence in the Levant. The minister praised the graduates for their discipline and determination, noting that these enhancements are crucial for maintaining operational readiness and contributing substantially to regional security. This development underscores Cyprus's focus on strengthening its defense posture in response to multiple hotbeds of tension in the Eastern Mediterranean.

1 reports · 1 sources

Cypriot sailor Natasa Lappa is set to compete in the iQFOiL European Championship in Portimao, Portugal, marking her return to international competition after achieving her career-best result earlier this year. The championship, hosted by Clube Naval de Portimao, will feature approximately 200 athletes from over 40 countries, with racing scheduled from Monday until May 22. Lappa arrives at the event following an 18th place finish at the Grand Slam in Hyeres, France, a significant improvement from her 32nd place in the season's opening event. She previously secured Cyprus’ highest ever finish in this championship with a 20th place result in Italy last year. Currently ranked 36th globally in the Olympic windsurfing class designated for the 2024 Summer Olympics, Lappa’s participation is part of the crucial qualification cycle. Additionally, Iakovos Christofides will represent Cyprus in the men’s competition. This event serves as a key milestone in the international calendar leading up to the next major Olympic qualification phase, highlighting the growing competitiveness of Cypriot sailors on the European stage.

1 reports · 1 sources

Cypriot authorities have detained three suspects, including a serving police officer, as part of an investigation into an organized crime ring allegedly involved in money laundering, tax evasion, and extortion targeting forex firms. The Nicosia District Court ordered the detention of the 45-year-old officer for eight days and two other men, aged 49 and 50, for seven days following operations in Limassol. Investigators suspect the group offered protection services to businesses and may have ties to a Greek smuggling suspect. Financial probes revealed unexplained wealth, including luxury vehicles and bank transactions inconsistent with declared incomes, leading to the freezing of approximately €200,000 in assets and the seizure of property worth over €420,000. This crackdown marks a significant escalation from previous regulatory supervision by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), which had imposed fines and license suspensions but not conducted criminal raids. The case emerges amidst heightened scrutiny of the Cypriot forex sector, including public allegations of links to international drug cartels and ongoing efforts to combat investor scams impersonating regulators.

1 reports · 1 sources

The Cyprus government has announced the launch of the third phase of its home energy efficiency plan, scheduled to open for proposals in September with a budget of €20 million. Energy Minister Michael Damianos stated that this new "Save-Upgrade Houses" tender will raise the total allocation under the Thalia programme to €85 million. Addressing previous delays caused by high application volumes, officials assured that the process has been streamlined, allowing low-risk applications to bypass on-site checks for faster processing. The scheme offers financial support of up to €32,000 per household for upgrades such as thermal insulation, window replacements, and solar systems. Eligible properties must have been built before January 1, 2008, and hold a residential electricity account. Special emphasis is placed on vulnerable households, those in mountain areas, and refugee settlements, which will receive a 20% funding boost. The initiative aims to reduce emissions in line with national and European goals while helping citizens lower energy costs and improve living conditions. Interested individuals can seek specialist consultations or access details via the Ministry’s website and helpline.

1 reports · 1 sources

The Go Regenerative Festival, described as the first event of its kind in Cyprus, is scheduled to take place on Sunday, May 17, at the Christos Stelios Ioannou Foundation in Nicosia. Organizers invite the public to a unique day dedicated to food, farming, sustainability, and community building. The festival aims to educate attendees on how regenerative agriculture can restore soil health, support biodiversity, and strengthen local food systems. The agenda features a diverse range of activities suitable for all ages, including olive oil tastings, a regenerative farmers market, live cooking demonstrations using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and guided tours of a regenerative farming demonstration site. Additionally, the event will host academic presentations, discussions, and various children’s activities such as arts, crafts, and games. With free entry and a vibrant atmosphere designed for learning and engagement, the festival targets families, farmers, professionals, students, and anyone curious about sustainable living. This one-day gathering serves as an open community event promoting environmental awareness and sustainable lifestyle practices through interactive experiences and educational opportunities.

1 reports · 1 sources