Cyprus starts talks with EU, IMF officials on terms and size of bailout for its troubled banks

[dipsydoodle]

2. Not so much in this connection

Occupying jobs maybe in the Greek sector of the island but that's another issue. Aside from that those jobs are fast disappearing - most were in the building trade which is now dormant.

The issue here is Cypriot banks having bought Greek bonds - they've been turned over big same as everybody else but are in a lesser position to absorb it. The historic close relationship between Cyprus and Greece has fallen out bed.

I knew about the Russian issue from a personal source. The offer of the necessary loan from Russia is already in place - just needs taking up. As such Cyprus won't take any stick from the EU. Its "give us the money" or we accept the Russian offer - please yourselves.