Delicate balances in US–EU relations and Cyprus’ role within them, party expectations and positioning ahead of parliamentary elections, questions surrounding the Independent Social Support Agency following the release of a video containing allegations against the government, the fight against organised crime, and the state of Cyprus’ natural environment dominate the Sunday press.
Alithia, in its lead story titled “Abroad, we are doing terribly”, writes that Cyprus’ voice as the EU’s presiding state in major European decisions is “not even that of a supporting actor, but of a clown”. In another article, the paper refers to what it describes as a manufactured perception of resilience around President Nikos Christodoulides, despite polling data pointing to a negative public image. Elsewhere, Alithia reports that Cyprus’ natural wealth has been given breathing space following recent rainfall.
Politis, under the headline “Attack on AKEL and ELAM, yes to cooperation with DIKO”, focuses on statements by DISY president Annita Demetriou in the run-up to parliamentary elections. In another report, the paper writes about unilateral measures by President Nikos Christodoulides in favour of Turkish Cypriots. Elsewhere, it reports that, according to the Auditor General, the Management Committee of the Independent Social Support Agency is positive towards its abolition.
Phileleftheros, in its main story titled “A Trump-made storm is coming”, writes that US President Donald Trump is reshaping the global map, triggering alarm in Europe and beyond. In another article, the paper reports on the Forestry Department’s action plan, focusing on affected areas and aiming to strengthen the protection of Cyprus’ natural wealth. Elsewhere, it writes that European Parliament President Roberta Metsola is offering guidance on bridging differences with Trump.
Haravgi, with the headline “Our country deserves better, and AKEL can deliver better”, reports that AKEL’s general secretary said a vote for the party strengthens society and amplifies the voice of the many. In another article, the paper stresses the urgency of tackling organised crime, while arguing that the government is failing to do so. Elsewhere, Haravgi writes that the state has effectively “put a noose around the neck” of traditional boat builders.
The English-language Sunday Mail, in its lead story titled “Cyprus and the Peace Council”, writes that after initially welcoming Trump’s invitation, the government subsequently shifted its stance. In another report, the paper says the condition of a victim of a knife attack in Larnaca remains critical. Elsewhere, it reports that high-quality Cypriot olive oil is being sent to Italy without recognition of its origin.
The Sunday weekly Kathimerini, under the headline “Task force against organised crime”, reports exclusive information on plans by the justice minister to create a 60-member elite strike unit. In another article, it writes that investment interest is increasingly shifting towards mountainous areas. Elsewhere, it notes that Cyprus “came close to scoring a double own goal” due to Trump’s invitation to Kosovo, which Ankara cites as a reference model for recognition of the self-declared breakaway regime.
The Sunday weekly Simerini, with the main headline “Donor–government relations cast a shadow”, reports on crossfire between political parties over the Independent Social Support Agency and competing proposals. In another article, it writes about an air defence and electronic warfare dome in areas of Cyprus occupied by Turkey. Elsewhere, the paper reports that the state is pursuing a mechanism that “collects at night”.