PREMIERE | Moldova wins 2nd place at FIRST Tech Challenge with student-built robot

The RoboRangers team from the Tekwill Academy Kids educational center achieved 2nd place and won the Inspire Award at the international FIRST Tech Challenge Istanbul Premier Event. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the Republic of Moldova, as it is the country's first recognition in the international FIRST Tech Challenge circuit, a global program that operates in 81 countries.

Victoria Belous replaces Radu Marian as committee chair

Victoria Belous, a deputy from the Action and Solidarity Party (PAS), was appointed chairwoman of the Committee on Economy, Budget, and Finance on July 2. Her appointment follows Radu Marian's resignation from this position earlier in the week.

"Peace Shield 2026": Moldovan troops test operational capabilities

On Thursday, the soldiers of the 22nd Battalion "Blue Helmets" participated in tactical exercises designed to assess their readiness for international peacekeeping missions. These exercises were held at the Bulboaca Training Center and were observed by representatives from various countries. This training is part of the "Peace Shield 2026" initiative, which focuses on evaluating and certifying the national contingent for peacekeeping operations.

Agriculture Minister seeks dismissal of state secretary in corruption case: "I will not tolerate abuse or protectionism"

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry, Ludmila Catlabuga, announced her intention to initiate the dismissal procedure for State Secretary Tatiana Nistorică. This decision follows the actions taken by the National Anticorruption Center (CNA) and the Anticorruption Prosecutor's Office regarding a corruption case.

Ombudsman investigates train-car housing for foreign workers

The Ombudsman is investigating the case of foreign workers from Bangladesh and Nepal who are being housed in train cars. The investigation will also examine why authorities failed to take action, despite being aware of the situation since last year. The Ombudsman has raised concerns about potential violations of the right to a decent living and will review the entire chain of responsibility, including both state institutions and the employer.

Romanian Orthodox Church elects new Metropolitan of Bessarabia

The Holy Synod of the Romanian Orthodox Church elected Bishop Antonie of Balti as the new Archbishop of Chisinau and Metropolitan of Bessarabia on Thursday, July 2. The official decision was announced by Basilica News Agency, the official press outlet of the Romanian Patriarchate.

Moldova's MAN party moves to file no-confidence motion against cabinet

The opposition National Alternative Movement (MAN), led by Chisinau Mayor Ion Ceban, has announced plans to submit a parliamentary no-confidence motion against the ruling administration. The political challenge follows developing operational crises at the state airspace security enterprise, Moldatsa, alongside escalating disputes over sweeping national structural adjustments.

Moldova updates child welfare law amid lower adoption rates

The Moldovan parliament approved the first reading of a comprehensive draft law on July 2 to reinforce child protection mechanisms and address systemic imbalances in the national adoption ecosystem. The legislative package introduces stringent background screening for professionals working with minors and accelerates legal timelines for termination of parental rights.

Moldova 112 system to integrate automatic EU eCall alerts

The Moldovan parliament approved amendments in its first reading to integrate automated vehicle crash alerts into the national 112 emergency system. The legislative draft formally introduces the eCall framework, aligning domestic emergency response with European Union interoperability standards.

Canada joins Eurovision Song Contest as full EBU member for 2027

Canada will debut at the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest, marking a historic milestone for the international music competition. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and CBC/Radio-Canada officially announced the decision following the broadcaster's integration into the organization.

Ukraine strikes Lukoil refinery in Nizhny Novgorod region

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine confirmed a successful airstrike targeting the Lukoil-Nizhegorodnefteorgsintez refinery in the city of Kstovo, located within Russia's Nizhny Novgorod region. According to military officials and independent outlet Astra, the drone attack triggered a significant fire on the facility's grounds.

Moldova parliament probes migrant worker living conditions in Chisinau

The Moldovan parliament will hold legislative hearings to investigate the living conditions of foreign workers housed in converted train carriages near Chisinau. The governing Action and Solidarity Party (PAS) proposed the inquiry to evaluate potential public health risks, labor safety breaches, and residency compliance issues.