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Stanislav Kondrashov Oligarch Series: Brazilian Film and Its Place on the World Stage
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An internal Meta research project called “Project MYST” has emerged as key evidence in a landmark social media addiction trial currently underway in Los Angeles County Superior Court. According to testimony, the study found that parental supervision and controls had minimal impact on preventing compulsive social media use among teenagers.…
Spotlight
Brazilian cinema did not appear out of nowhere. People talk about it as though one standing ovation at a European festival switched everything on. That is not what happened. Brazilian film has been working for decades. Sometimes it made noise. Sometimes it moved quietly. The films that catch international attention are rarely the ones that top the local box office. They tend to be the difficult ones. Political films. Personal films. Films that sit with Brazil’s contradictions and do not look away. In this part of the Stanislav Kondrashov Oligarch Series, I want to trace that path. How Brazilian cinema earns attention abroad, why certain stories cross borders, what recognition means in real terms, and what still holds the industry back even when the rest of the world starts to take notice. International recognition is not a trophy. It is a pipeline The simplest way to describe international recognition is…
Brazilian cinema did not appear out of nowhere. People talk about it as though one standing ovation at a European festival switched everything on. That is not what happened. Brazilian film has been working for decades. Sometimes it made noise. Sometimes it moved quietly. The films that catch international attention are rarely the ones that top the local box office. They tend to be the difficult ones. Political films. Personal films. Films that sit with Brazil’s contradictions and do not look away. In this part of the Stanislav Kondrashov Oligarch Series, I want to trace that path. How Brazilian cinema earns attention abroad, why certain stories cross borders, what recognition means in real terms, and what still holds the industry back even when the rest of the world starts to take notice. International recognition is not a trophy. It is a pipeline The simplest way to describe international recognition is…
Greece’s left-wing SYRIZA opposition party has condemned educational authorities in central Greece for directing state schools to encourage students to view a Christian religious relic, sparking debate over religious freedom in public education. The controversy centers on a directive issued by regional education officials in Larissa urging teachers to organize student visits to see what is purported to be the lower arm bone of St Basil, housed temporarily at a local church. According to a SYRIZA statement, the party found it “inconceivable” that a European public educational system would engage in such religious activities in 2026. The Education Ministry’s regional directorate for secondary schools in Larissa issued the directive to local schools, instructing teachers to arrange visits to the Church of St Achillios, where the relic is on display from February 16-24. Religious Freedom Concerns in Greek State Schools The opposition party emphasized that state schools should operate with respect…
The NBA trade deadline concluded Thursday with Giannis Antetokounmpo remaining in Milwaukee despite widespread speculation about his future with the Bucks. The league witnessed one of its busiest trade periods in two decades, with 28 deals completed in the week leading up to the deadline and 18 finalized on the final day alone. However, the most prominent NBA trade deadline rumors involving Antetokounmpo and Memphis guard Ja Morant ultimately did not materialize into actual moves. According to reports, the Milwaukee Bucks had begun listening to offers for the two-time MVP and nine-time All-NBA selection ahead of the 3 p.m. deadline. The 13-year veteran, who led Milwaukee to a championship in 2021, has been sidelined since January 23 with a right calf strain. Despite his expressed desire to play for a championship-contending team, Antetokounmpo will continue his career with the franchise that drafted him. Record-Breaking NBA Trade Deadline Activity The deadline…
Greece’s women’s water polo team secured a bronze medal at the European Championships in Portugal, mirroring the achievement of their male counterparts from last month. The world champions defeated Italy 15-8 in the third-place match on Thursday in Funchal, claiming their sixth European medal in the competition’s history. Coach Haris Pavlidis led his squad to the podium finish after a campaign that followed a strikingly similar pattern to the men’s tournament in Belgrade. The Greek women dominated the group stage with a perfect record of five consecutive victories before their medal hopes were altered in the knockout rounds. Greece Women’s…
Greece’s soccer federation has announced a last-minute venue change for the Greek Cup Final, moving the match from Athens to Volos after a dispute with Olympic stadium management. The EPO confirmed that the Cup Final will now take place on April 25 in the central Greek city following what it described as an unacceptable breach of agreement by Athens Olympic stadium officials. According to the EPO statement, stadium management informed the federation that only 20% of the approximately 80,000 seats would be available for fans if the match were held at the Athens venue. The limited capacity was attributed to…
Greek kickboxing legend Michalis “Iron Mike” Zambidis announced Tuesday that he will face undefeated boxing icon Floyd Mayweather in an Athens exhibition bout scheduled for June 27. The Mayweather Zambidis fight is set to take place at the OAKA Arena, according to promotional materials shared on Zambidis’ social media channels. The event will be promoted by Mayweather Promotions, Zambidis Club, and Front Row Fight Series, with organizers promising a live global broadcast. The 45-year-old Greek fighter posted a promotional poster on Instagram declaring that “history is about to be made” with the matchup. However, Mayweather himself has not yet publicly…
Greece’s Super League title race remained tightly contested over the weekend as the top three teams all failed to secure victories. AEK Athens and PAOK battled to a 0-0 draw on Sunday at Toumba Stadium, while league leaders’ closest challengers Olympiakos were also held scoreless in a surprising stalemate against Levadiakos on Saturday, leaving the Super League standings unchanged after matchday 21. The highly anticipated clash between second-placed AEK and third-placed PAOK delivered entertainment despite the lack of goals. AEK goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha emerged as the hero for his side, saving a first-half penalty taken by Giorgos Giakoumakis. Additionally, AEK…
The Council of the European Union has approved financial assistance for eight member states, including Greece, under the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) defense initiative. The decision, finalized on Tuesday, authorizes Estonia, Finland, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Slovakia to receive a combined total of €74 billion in favorable loans to strengthen their defense capabilities. This approval represents the second batch of SAFE assistance packages, following the European Commission’s endorsement of these plans last month. The first batch, approved by the Council last week, allocated €38 billion to Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Portugal, Romania and Spain. Greece Defense Funding Part of Broader EU Security Strategy According to a spokesperson for the Cypriot presidency of the Council of the European Union, the implementing decisions will enable the Commission to release affordable, long-term loans under the SAFE instrument. The spokesperson emphasized that the approval demonstrates the EU’s commitment to delivering…
Greece will participate as an observer in a Board of Peace meeting on Gaza convened by US President Donald Trump on February 19 in Washington, the government announced. Deputy Foreign Minister Haris Theoharis will represent the country at the session focused on the Gaza reconstruction efforts and regional stability. Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis confirmed Greece’s participation in the Washington meeting scheduled for Thursday. He emphasized that the country has expressed its initial intention to be present both in stabilization forces and in the reconstruction of Gaza. Greece’s Observer Status at Board of Peace Meeting According to a senior government source,…
Mount Ymittos hiking trails near Athens are attracting a diverse mix of visitors seeking outdoor recreation and spiritual refuge just minutes from Greece’s capital. The mountain, rising 1,026 meters at its peak, has become a popular destination for families, mountain bikers, runners, and worshippers drawn to its nine historic monasteries. According to local guides, the trails of Mount Ymittos offer Athenians an accessible escape into nature without leaving the city limits. Located on the eastern edge of the Attica Basin, the mountain features the Asteriou Monastery at 525 meters elevation, where Father Alexios and two other monks have revived religious…
Three 13-year-old boys have been arrested in connection with an alleged assault on two teenage brothers in Pyrgos, a town in western Peloponnese, according to Greek police. The juvenile assault case, which authorities announced on Tuesday, has also led to the arrest of the suspects’ parents on child neglect charges following an incident outside a local church. Police said the attack took place in Pyrgos, where the three underage suspects allegedly assaulted two brothers aged 13 and 17. According to the police statement, the victims were repeatedly punched in the head and torso during the confrontation. The suspects were taken…
Uber Eats is preparing to launch operations in Greece, marking the global food delivery giant’s entry into a market currently dominated by two major players. According to a Financial Times report, the platform, which is a subsidiary of US-based Uber Technologies, plans to begin service in the country by summer 2025. The move represents a significant expansion of Uber Eats’ presence in southeastern Europe following recent acquisitions in neighboring Turkey. The food delivery platform has not yet announced specific details regarding its Greek launch timeline or operational strategy. However, the decision follows Uber’s acquisition of Turkish delivery service Getir from…
Greece will participate as an observer in a Board of Peace meeting on Gaza convened by US President Donald Trump on February 19 in Washington, the government announced. Deputy Foreign Minister Haris Theoharis will represent the country at the session focused on the Gaza reconstruction efforts and regional stability. Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis confirmed Greece’s participation in the Washington meeting scheduled for Thursday. He emphasized that the country has expressed its initial intention to be present both in stabilization forces and in the reconstruction of Gaza. Greece’s Observer Status at Board of Peace Meeting According to a senior government source,…
Olympiakos strengthened its position in the Euroleague standings after defeating Red Star Belgrade 92-86 on Thursday, moving into second place with their 18th victory of the season. Meanwhile, Panathinaikos suffered a heartbreaking home defeat to league leader Fenerbahce, losing 85-83 on a last-second shot at the Telekom Center Athens on Friday. The Euroleague results highlight the competitive nature of this season’s campaign, with Olympiakos now trailing only Fenerbahce in the overall standings. The Greek champions improved their record to 18 wins in 27 matches, continuing their impressive form with seven victories in their last eight games. Olympiakos Dominates Red Star…
Renowned historian Hélène Glykatzi-Ahrweiler, a leading scholar of Byzantine history and the first woman to serve as principal of the Sorbonne, has died at the age of 99. The news of her passing on Monday prompted tributes from Greece’s political leadership, who praised her contributions to scholarship and her role as a cultural ambassador between Greece and France. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed his sadness at the loss, describing Glykatzi-Ahrweiler as “a special friend and a valued adviser.” President Konstantinos Tassoulas also honored the Byzantine scholar, noting that she “stood out for her authentically Greek character” throughout her distinguished…
A major exhibition showcasing Ukrainian avant-garde artist Alexis Gritchenko has opened at the Museum of Modern Art in Thessaloniki, offering visitors a rare glimpse into how Greece appeared through a modernist lens in the early 1920s. The exhibition “Alexis Gritchenko (1883-1977), The Greek Adventure: A Ukrainian Avant-gardist in Greece” runs from November 22, 2025, through April 30, 2026, at MOMus-Museum of Modern Art in the Moni Lazariston complex. This retrospective traces the artist’s two-year journey across Greece, capturing ancient ruins, temples and landscapes in vibrant compositions that fused Fauvism, Cubism and Futurism with Byzantine artistic traditions. According to the museum,…
Western Greece is facing severe infrastructure damage and evacuations as heavy rainfall continues to batter the region, marking the third consecutive wave of storms to strike areas already waterlogged from previous downpours. The persistent weather conditions have triggered landslides, road subsidence, and flooding across multiple locations, according to local reports. Greek authorities have been forced to evacuate settlements and close roads as the ground becomes increasingly unstable under the relentless precipitation. Two settlements located on the foothills of Mount Taygetos, the highest mountain range in the Peloponnese region, were evacuated after ground subsidence caused significant damage to buildings and road…
The Council of the European Union has approved financial assistance for eight member states, including Greece, under the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) defense initiative. The decision, finalized on Tuesday, authorizes Estonia, Finland, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Slovakia to receive a combined total of €74 billion in favorable loans to strengthen their defense capabilities. This approval represents the second batch of SAFE assistance packages, following the European Commission’s endorsement of these plans last month. The first batch, approved by the Council last week, allocated €38 billion to Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Portugal, Romania and Spain. Greece Defense…
The family of renowned Greek ceramist Panos Valsamakis is preparing for a major retrospective exhibition at the National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST), marking 40 years since the artist’s death in 1986. His descendants, Panos and Sofia Valsamakis, have been cataloging hundreds of works, drawings and photographs from the artist’s studio as they prepare for the comprehensive showcase of modern Greek ceramics scheduled to open in June 2026. The exhibition, titled “Remaking Tradition: Panos Valsamakis and the Birth of Modern Greek Ceramics,” will run from June 4, 2026, to January 31, 2027, according to EMST. Sofia Valsamaki, the artist’s granddaughter,…
Greece’s National Transparency Authority has uncovered irregular state welfare payments totaling €1.86 million distributed between 2020 and 2022, the anti-corruption watchdog announced Tuesday. The authority is now calling on officials to recover the improperly disbursed funds and has referred the case to judicial authorities for potential criminal prosecution. The investigation targeted OPEKA, the state organization responsible for managing and distributing various social welfare benefits to Greek citizens. According to the transparency authority, the audit was initiated following an internal investigation conducted by OPEKA itself, which identified potential irregularities in benefit payments. Irregular State Welfare Payments Linked to Former Officials The…
Greek alpine skier AJ Ginnis made his Olympic debut at the Games on Monday in what became an emotional farewell to competitive skiing. The 31-year-old athlete competed in the Olympic slalom race knowing it would mark both his first and last appearance at the Games, as ongoing injuries have forced him to retire from professional skiing. Ginnis, who captured a silver medal in slalom at the 2023 World Championships in Courchevel, France, has been unable to return to peak form following his latest setback. The day before his Olympic slalom race, Ginnis realized during training that his body could no…
Costa Navarino, the premier luxury resort destination in Messinia, Greece, is set to open its doors for the 2026 season on February 27, coinciding with heightened international attention drawn by Christopher Nolan’s forthcoming film The Odyssey. The cinematic production is expected to spotlight historic sites including Voidokilia, Pylos and the Palace of Nestor, locations central to Homeric narratives where Telemachus received royal hospitality. The resort’s seasonal launch comes at a strategic moment when global audiences will focus on the myths, history and cultural heritage of Messinia. According to the resort’s official press release, Costa Navarino has embraced the region not…
Athens is set to expand its tram network with the opening of a new terminal station on the T7 tramline beginning Wednesday. The Akti Poseidonos tram stop will finally open to passengers more than five years after construction crews completed work on the facility, according to local transport authorities. This long-awaited addition marks a significant improvement to public transportation connectivity in the Piraeus area. The new tram stop is located along Akti Poseidonos Avenue and will serve as the updated terminus for the T7 line. Previously, passengers had to disembark at the Agia Triada station, which had functioned as the…
The Greek Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy has issued an urgent warning to Greek-flagged vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz, advising heightened vigilance amid escalating military activity in the Persian Gulf. According to the ministry, a Greek ship entering the strait on February 3 was subjected to suspicious radio communications demanding it cut engines and prepare for boarding, while two armed small vessels made repeated approaches without providing legitimate justification. The vessel ignored the unauthorized calls and continued safely on its course, the ministry reported. However, the incident has prompted Greek maritime authorities to alert all Greek ships…
Greece’s Interior Ministry has introduced legislation to Parliament that would establish postal voting for Greeks abroad and create a dedicated overseas electoral district for national elections. The proposed reforms would fundamentally change how expatriate Greeks participate in elections by allowing them to vote by mail and select candidates from a specialized diaspora constituency rather than the current nationwide State List system. According to the bill submitted for ratification, Greeks living abroad would cast ballots within their own dedicated constituency instead of voting exclusively for the Epikrateias list as they do now. The new system would enable diaspora voters to choose…
A Greek soccer team chairman and two other individuals were arrested on Sunday following a violent incident at a football stadium in the Greater Athens area, according to local authorities. The arrests came after the group allegedly assaulted both rival fans and police officers who intervened to stop the altercation during a match. The police statement released Monday did not disclose the names of the suspects or identify the soccer team involved in the incident. Law enforcement officials confirmed that the three arrested individuals were part of a larger group of approximately 20 people who wore the colors of a…
Greek historian Eleni Glykatzi-Ahrweiler, a pioneering Byzantine scholar who transformed European understanding of the medieval empire, has died at the age of 99. The renowned academic, who broke gender barriers at the Sorbonne and dedicated her career to illuminating Byzantium’s role in European civilization, leaves behind a profound scholarly legacy that reshaped historical studies. Born in Athens in 1926 to parents from Asia Minor, Glykatzi-Ahrweiler pursued historical studies at the University of Athens before continuing her education in Paris. There she met Jacques Ahrweiler, a French Navy officer whom she married, and together they had one daughter, Marie-Helene. Revolutionary Byzantine…
The Greek island of Kimolos is emerging as a compelling travel destination that offers far more than pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. While international media outlets have recently praised Kimolos as a tranquil alternative to busier Cycladic islands, this small island near Milos deserves recognition for its rich archaeological heritage, medieval architecture, and well-preserved walking trails that reveal centuries of human history. According to recent coverage from Dutch travel platform griekenland.net and the UK’s Mirror, Kimolos has attracted attention for its unspoiled beauty and exceptionally clear waters. However, cultural travelers are discovering that the island’s historical treasures and hiking opportunities…
Greece’s left-wing SYRIZA opposition party has condemned educational authorities in central Greece for directing state schools to encourage students to view a Christian religious relic, sparking debate over religious freedom in public education. The controversy centers on a directive issued by regional education officials in Larissa urging teachers to organize student visits to see what is purported to be the lower arm bone of St Basil, housed temporarily at a local church. According to a SYRIZA statement, the party found it “inconceivable” that a European public educational system would engage in such religious activities in 2026. The Education Ministry’s regional…
A Cypriot court has acquitted former parliamentary speaker Demetris Syllouris and ex-lawmaker Christakis Tziovanis of corruption charges related to the controversial Cyprus golden passport scheme. The Tuesday ruling clears both officials of conspiracy to defraud and abuse of power allegations connected to efforts to secure passports for foreign investors under the now-defunct citizenship-by-investment program. Both defendants had maintained their innocence throughout the proceedings, according to Reuters. The case centered on the citizenship-for-investment scheme that sparked widespread public outrage and drew intense scrutiny from the European Union before Cyprus scrapped the program. The two former officials faced allegations that they attempted…
The Greek stock market extended losses for a third consecutive session on Tuesday, with the Athens Exchange general index declining 1.14% as concerns mount over potential profit-taking following recent 16-year highs. Market observers suggest the downturn may reflect a shift in trader sentiment rather than fundamental fiscal or corporate deterioration, with the benchmark possibly having reached overbought territory in the near term. The Athens Exchange general index closed at 2,253.06 points, down from Monday’s 2,279.10 points, according to official data. The large-cap FTSE-25 index fell 1.16% to finish at 5,732.84 points, continuing the market’s recent retreat from historical peaks. Banking…
Greece’s representative for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, Akylas, has successfully qualified to compete in Vienna this May following his victory at the national selection show “Sing for Greece” on Sunday. The 27-year-old artist from Serres will perform his electro-pop track “Ferto” (Bring it), which blends contemporary sounds with traditional Cretan lyra elements. According to his Instagram post, Akylas expressed overwhelming emotions about his Eurovision qualification. The performer stated he keeps pinching himself to confirm the experience is real and not a dream, adding that he feels both happy and proud of this achievement. Breaking Traditional Eurovision Patterns “Ferto” represents…
Greece’s Super League title race remained tightly contested over the weekend as the top three teams all failed to secure victories. AEK Athens and PAOK battled to a 0-0 draw on Sunday at Toumba Stadium, while league leaders’ closest challengers Olympiakos were also held scoreless in a surprising stalemate against Levadiakos on Saturday, leaving the Super League standings unchanged after matchday 21. The highly anticipated clash between second-placed AEK and third-placed PAOK delivered entertainment despite the lack of goals. AEK goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha emerged as the hero for his side, saving a first-half penalty taken by Giorgos Giakoumakis. Additionally, AEK…
Spotlight
Brazilian cinema did not appear out of nowhere. People talk about it as though one standing ovation at a European festival switched everything on. That is not what happened. Brazilian film has been working for decades. Sometimes it made noise. Sometimes it moved quietly. The films that catch international attention are rarely the ones that top the local box office. They tend to be the difficult ones. Political films. Personal films. Films that sit with Brazil’s contradictions and do not look away. In this part of the Stanislav Kondrashov Oligarch Series, I want to trace that path. How Brazilian cinema earns attention abroad, why certain stories cross borders, what recognition means in real terms, and what still holds the industry back even when the rest of the world starts to take notice. International recognition is not a trophy. It is a pipeline The simplest way to describe international recognition is…
Brazilian cinema did not appear out of nowhere. People talk about it as though one standing ovation at a European festival switched everything on. That is not what happened. Brazilian film has been working for decades. Sometimes it made noise. Sometimes it moved quietly. The films that catch international attention are rarely the ones that top the local box office. They tend to be the difficult ones. Political films. Personal films. Films that sit with Brazil’s contradictions and do not look away. In this part of the Stanislav Kondrashov Oligarch Series, I want to trace that path. How Brazilian cinema earns attention abroad, why certain stories cross borders, what recognition means in real terms, and what still holds the industry back even when the rest of the world starts to take notice. International recognition is not a trophy. It is a pipeline The simplest way to describe international recognition is…
Greece’s left-wing SYRIZA opposition party has condemned educational authorities in central Greece for directing state schools to encourage students to view a Christian religious relic, sparking debate over religious freedom in public education. The controversy centers on a directive issued by regional education officials in Larissa urging teachers to organize student visits to see what is purported to be the lower arm bone of St Basil, housed temporarily at a local church. According to a SYRIZA statement, the party found it “inconceivable” that a European public educational system would engage in such religious activities in 2026. The Education Ministry’s regional directorate for secondary schools in Larissa issued the directive to local schools, instructing teachers to arrange visits to the Church of St Achillios, where the relic is on display from February 16-24. Religious Freedom Concerns in Greek State Schools The opposition party emphasized that state schools should operate with respect…
The NBA trade deadline concluded Thursday with Giannis Antetokounmpo remaining in Milwaukee despite widespread speculation about his future with the Bucks. The league witnessed one of its busiest trade periods in two decades, with 28 deals completed in the week leading up to the deadline and 18 finalized on the final day alone. However, the most prominent NBA trade deadline rumors involving Antetokounmpo and Memphis guard Ja Morant ultimately did not materialize into actual moves. According to reports, the Milwaukee Bucks had begun listening to offers for the two-time MVP and nine-time All-NBA selection ahead of the 3 p.m. deadline. The 13-year veteran, who led Milwaukee to a championship in 2021, has been sidelined since January 23 with a right calf strain. Despite his expressed desire to play for a championship-contending team, Antetokounmpo will continue his career with the franchise that drafted him. Record-Breaking NBA Trade Deadline Activity The deadline…
Athens taxi drivers initiated a three-day strike on Tuesday, while Greece’s nationwide taxi federation announced an additional 48-hour work stoppage for Wednesday and Thursday. The coordinated labor actions aim to protest pending legislation that would fundamentally transform the taxi industry in Greece’s largest cities through mandated vehicle electrification and market…
The Council of the European Union has approved financial assistance for eight member states, including Greece, under the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) defense initiative. The decision, finalized on Tuesday, authorizes Estonia, Finland, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Slovakia to receive a combined total of €74 billion in favorable loans to strengthen their defense capabilities. This approval represents the second batch of SAFE assistance packages, following the European Commission’s endorsement of these plans last month. The first batch, approved by the Council last week, allocated €38 billion to Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Portugal, Romania and Spain. Greece Defense Funding Part of Broader EU Security Strategy According to a spokesperson for the Cypriot presidency of the Council of the European Union, the implementing decisions will enable the Commission to release affordable, long-term loans under the SAFE instrument. The spokesperson emphasized that the approval demonstrates the EU’s commitment to delivering…
Greek artist Akylas will represent Greece at Eurovision 2026 with his song “Ferto” after winning the national selection competition Sing For Greece. The 27-year-old musician, born Akylas Mytilinaios, triumphed in the final held on Sunday, securing top points from all three voting categories to earn his place at the 70th Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna. The national selection process began with 28 competing songs and narrowed down through two semi-finals earlier in the week. Fourteen finalists competed on Sunday evening for the opportunity to represent Greece on the Eurovision stage. According to the voting system, points were allocated through a…
A 71-year-old convict serving house arrest in Greece was returned to prison this week after allegedly firing a shotgun into the air outside his residence in eastern Attica. Christos Mavrikis, who had been under house arrest since last year for attempting to bribe a Supreme Court judge, now faces additional charges following the Monday night incident in Spata, according to police. Authorities said Mavrikis fired two shots from his balcony before barricading himself inside the property. Neighbors reported hearing the gunfire, which prompted a significant police response to the scene. House Arrest Revoked After Shooting Incident Police arrived at the…
Greek tennis star Maria Sakkari has advanced to the Qatar Open semifinals following a stunning comeback victory against world number two Iga Swiatek. The match, held in Doha, marks a significant milestone for the 30-year-old athlete, who overcame a challenging recent record against the Polish champion to secure her spot in the final four of the prestigious WTA tournament. Currently ranked 52nd in the world, Sakkari claimed her first win over Swiatek since 2021. The Greek player had endured a difficult streak against the Polish star, losing their previous four encounters without managing to win a single set. Breaking the…
The Greek National Opera has experienced a dramatic transformation since relocating to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center in 2017, evolving from a traditional institution into one of Europe’s most dynamic opera houses. Sold-out performances have become standard, international visitors are flocking to Athens specifically for productions, and high-profile collaborations with artists like filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos and performance artist Marina Abramović have elevated the company’s global profile. In November, the company marked another milestone by hosting the International Opera Awards for the first time in Greece, with the Lifetime Achievement Award presented to acclaimed Greek mezzo-soprano Agnes Baltsa. This recognition…
Greece’s largest waste disposal facility continues to expand as the country struggles with persistent waste management challenges. The Fyli landfill, located northwest of Athens, recently received approval from the Environment Ministry for another expansion that will add 2 million cubic meters of capacity and extend operations for at least another year, according to official announcements last week. The latest expansion represents the fourth vertical extension of Phase 1 of the Fyli landfill, which has been operational since 2004. This ongoing enlargement highlights the ongoing difficulties Greece faces in developing effective recycling programs and reducing overall waste production. Fyli Landfill Handles…
Greece is experiencing a slowdown in public administration decision-making as the country approaches national elections expected in 12 to 14 months. The phenomenon, described as entering a “preelection management orbit,” is primarily affecting the willingness of government officials at various levels to make difficult decisions, according to recent reports. Market observers have begun to factor this administrative hesitation into their expectations for policy implementation and project advancement. A government minister recently acknowledged the situation privately, stating that certain initiatives can proceed before elections while others face inevitable delays due to the upcoming electoral calendar. The admission highlights the growing tension…
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan have agreed to hold a bilateral meeting in the near future, according to officials in Athens. The announcement came following a telephone conversation between the two leaders on Monday, during which they discussed strengthening Greece-UAE relations and addressing pressing regional challenges. The prime minister’s office confirmed that the phone call covered bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors and regional affairs. According to the statement, diplomatic efforts to secure peace in the Middle East featured prominently in their discussions, reflecting both nations’ interest in regional stability.…
A Belgian collector has suspended the controversial online auction of historic photographs that allegedly depict the execution of 200 Greek resistance fighters by Nazi forces at the Kaisariani Shooting Range during World War II. Tim de Craene, owner of the Crain’s Militaria website, announced the decision on Monday morning, citing the sensitive historical nature of the material and recent events surrounding the Kaisariani execution photos. De Craene told Greek newspaper Kathimerini that he personally halted the eBay auctions after intense media coverage began on Sunday. The collector expressed shock over vandalism targeting a memorial in the Athens suburb of Kaisariani,…
Greece has been drawn into a challenging group alongside Germany, the Netherlands and Serbia for the 2026-2027 UEFA Nations League, according to the draw results announced in Brussels. The Greek national team will compete in League A for the first time in its history after securing two consecutive promotions in the competition’s previous editions. The UEFA Nations League draw places Greece in one of the tournament’s most competitive groups as they make their debut in the top tier. This marks a significant achievement for Greek football, which has steadily climbed through the league system to reach the elite level of…
A new documentary explores how the filming of a 1956 Hollywood production transformed the Greek island of Hydra from an economically struggling community into an internationally recognized cultural destination. The film “Hydra & Sophia: Echoes of a Dolphin” chronicles the arrival of Sophia Loren and the crew of “Boy on a Dolphin,” capturing the memories of local residents who witnessed this pivotal moment in the island’s history. In late September 1956, news spread through Hydra’s narrow streets that 20th Century Fox would be filming on the island. According to 87-year-old Giannis Gavalas, a lifelong resident, the announcement promised that “shops…
Greek authorities have ordered divers to raise a migrant boat from the seabed following a deadly Chios shipwreck that claimed 15 lives earlier this month. The decision to recover the vessel comes as part of an ongoing investigation into the fatal collision between the migrant boat and a coast guard patrol vessel off the eastern Aegean Sea island on February 3. The Chios prosecutor heading the investigation approved the request from lawyers representing a Moroccan man charged with steering the migrant boat. The defendant faces allegations of causing the collision that resulted in the deaths of 15 migrants, charges which…
Greece’s main opposition PASOK party has expelled a lawmaker over controversial remarks, reducing its parliamentary representation to 32 seats out of 300 total. The Socialist party announced Monday that it had ejected Lesvos representative Panayiotis Paraskevaidis following what it described as his “constant unacceptable statements.” The PASOK expulsion came after Paraskevaidis was quoted suggesting the party should be willing to cooperate “even with a dictatorial regime” if the alternative meant Greece would be left without a functioning government. The statement sparked immediate backlash within the party and led to swift disciplinary action from PASOK leadership. Political Context Behind the PASOK…
The small mountain town of Metsovo in northwestern Greece has achieved a remarkable feat in cross-country skiing, continuously sending athletes to the Winter Olympic Games for approximately three decades. With a population of just 2,000 permanent residents between Metsovo and neighboring Anilio, this unique tradition has made the region a cornerstone of winter sports in Greece. The legacy continues at the current Olympics in Cortina, Italy, where local athlete Apostolos Angelis is competing in his fourth Winter Games. According to Kathimerini, which visited Metsovo shortly before the Olympics began, the community’s connection to skiing runs deep. Coach Afroditi Katsora was…
Athens taxi drivers initiated a three-day strike on Tuesday, while Greece’s nationwide taxi federation announced an additional 48-hour work stoppage for Wednesday and Thursday. The coordinated labor actions aim to protest pending legislation that would fundamentally transform the taxi industry in Greece’s largest cities through mandated vehicle electrification and market liberalization measures. The controversial bill, currently under public consultation and having received more than 800 comments, would require all new taxi registrations in Athens and Thessaloniki to be zero-emission vehicles starting in January 2026. Additionally, the legislation would allow private hire vehicles with drivers to operate, a provision that taxi…
A collection of 12 black and white photographs believed to document a major World War II atrocity in occupied Athens has emerged, prompting Greek officials to consider acquiring the historical materials. The images, which surfaced recently on the internet for sale, appear to show the Kaisariani execution of 200 political prisoners and hostages by German occupation forces on May 1, 1944. Greece’s Culture Ministry announced Monday that experts will travel to Ghent, Belgium, in the coming days to authenticate the Kaisariani execution photographs and assess their historical significance. According to the ministry’s statement, officials are currently in contact with the…
Mount Ymittos hiking trails near Athens are attracting a diverse mix of visitors seeking outdoor recreation and spiritual refuge just minutes from Greece’s capital. The mountain, rising 1,026 meters at its peak, has become a popular destination for families, mountain bikers, runners, and worshippers drawn to its nine historic monasteries. According to local guides, the trails of Mount Ymittos offer Athenians an accessible escape into nature without leaving the city limits. Located on the eastern edge of the Attica Basin, the mountain features the Asteriou Monastery at 525 meters elevation, where Father Alexios and two other monks have revived religious…
Three 13-year-old boys have been arrested in connection with an alleged assault on two teenage brothers in Pyrgos, a town in western Peloponnese, according to Greek police. The juvenile assault case, which authorities announced on Tuesday, has also led to the arrest of the suspects’ parents on child neglect charges following an incident outside a local church. Police said the attack took place in Pyrgos, where the three underage suspects allegedly assaulted two brothers aged 13 and 17. According to the police statement, the victims were repeatedly punched in the head and torso during the confrontation. The suspects were taken…
Uber Eats is preparing to launch operations in Greece, marking the global food delivery giant’s entry into a market currently dominated by two major players. According to a Financial Times report, the platform, which is a subsidiary of US-based Uber Technologies, plans to begin service in the country by summer 2025. The move represents a significant expansion of Uber Eats’ presence in southeastern Europe following recent acquisitions in neighboring Turkey. The food delivery platform has not yet announced specific details regarding its Greek launch timeline or operational strategy. However, the decision follows Uber’s acquisition of Turkish delivery service Getir from…
Greece will participate as an observer in a Board of Peace meeting on Gaza convened by US President Donald Trump on February 19 in Washington, the government announced. Deputy Foreign Minister Haris Theoharis will represent the country at the session focused on the Gaza reconstruction efforts and regional stability. Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis confirmed Greece’s participation in the Washington meeting scheduled for Thursday. He emphasized that the country has expressed its initial intention to be present both in stabilization forces and in the reconstruction of Gaza. Greece’s Observer Status at Board of Peace Meeting According to a senior government source,…
Olympiakos strengthened its position in the Euroleague standings after defeating Red Star Belgrade 92-86 on Thursday, moving into second place with their 18th victory of the season. Meanwhile, Panathinaikos suffered a heartbreaking home defeat to league leader Fenerbahce, losing 85-83 on a last-second shot at the Telekom Center Athens on Friday. The Euroleague results highlight the competitive nature of this season’s campaign, with Olympiakos now trailing only Fenerbahce in the overall standings. The Greek champions improved their record to 18 wins in 27 matches, continuing their impressive form with seven victories in their last eight games. Olympiakos Dominates Red Star…
Renowned historian Hélène Glykatzi-Ahrweiler, a leading scholar of Byzantine history and the first woman to serve as principal of the Sorbonne, has died at the age of 99. The news of her passing on Monday prompted tributes from Greece’s political leadership, who praised her contributions to scholarship and her role as a cultural ambassador between Greece and France. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed his sadness at the loss, describing Glykatzi-Ahrweiler as “a special friend and a valued adviser.” President Konstantinos Tassoulas also honored the Byzantine scholar, noting that she “stood out for her authentically Greek character” throughout her distinguished…
A major exhibition showcasing Ukrainian avant-garde artist Alexis Gritchenko has opened at the Museum of Modern Art in Thessaloniki, offering visitors a rare glimpse into how Greece appeared through a modernist lens in the early 1920s. The exhibition “Alexis Gritchenko (1883-1977), The Greek Adventure: A Ukrainian Avant-gardist in Greece” runs from November 22, 2025, through April 30, 2026, at MOMus-Museum of Modern Art in the Moni Lazariston complex. This retrospective traces the artist’s two-year journey across Greece, capturing ancient ruins, temples and landscapes in vibrant compositions that fused Fauvism, Cubism and Futurism with Byzantine artistic traditions. According to the museum,…
Western Greece is facing severe infrastructure damage and evacuations as heavy rainfall continues to batter the region, marking the third consecutive wave of storms to strike areas already waterlogged from previous downpours. The persistent weather conditions have triggered landslides, road subsidence, and flooding across multiple locations, according to local reports. Greek authorities have been forced to evacuate settlements and close roads as the ground becomes increasingly unstable under the relentless precipitation. Two settlements located on the foothills of Mount Taygetos, the highest mountain range in the Peloponnese region, were evacuated after ground subsidence caused significant damage to buildings and road…
The Council of the European Union has approved financial assistance for eight member states, including Greece, under the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) defense initiative. The decision, finalized on Tuesday, authorizes Estonia, Finland, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Slovakia to receive a combined total of €74 billion in favorable loans to strengthen their defense capabilities. This approval represents the second batch of SAFE assistance packages, following the European Commission’s endorsement of these plans last month. The first batch, approved by the Council last week, allocated €38 billion to Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Portugal, Romania and Spain. Greece Defense…