PHOTO GALLERY | Eurovision 2026 National Selection: show, emotions, backstage

The Eurovision 2026 National Selection took place on January 17 at Arena Chisinau and featured artists from various generations, along with special guests who have experience on the international Eurovision stage. A large audience eagerly followed every moment of the competition. The photo report below showcases performances on stage, emotions in the Green Room, and backstage.

Maia Sandu after the meeting with her Albanian counterpart: "EU membership protects small states"

In light of an increasingly unstable regional environment, the Republic of Moldova and Albania regard the enlargement of the European Union (EU) and the accession of candidate states as not just reform processes but also vital tools for ensuring security and stability. This message was communicated by President Maia Sandu and her Albanian counterpart, Bajram Begaj, during their meeting at the Presidency of the Republic of Moldova on January 19.

Maia Sandu and Igor Grosu send condolences to Spain: “We stand with you in this tragic loss”

The Republic of Moldova stands in solidarity with Spain during this time of mourning following the tragic train accident that resulted in 39 fatalities and 170 injuries. On Monday, January 19, President Maia Sandu and Speaker Igor Grosu expressed their condolences to the Spanish people regarding this devastating loss.

Chisinau launches international tender for the Bac river rehabilitation equipment

The Chisinau City Hall has launched an international tender for the rehabilitation of the Bac River. This large-scale project aims to strengthen the riverbanks, modernize drainage networks, and reduce the risk of flooding in the city. The initiative is being implemented with the support of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). The announcement was made by the general mayor of Chisinau, Ion Ceban, during the operational meeting of City Hall services on January 19.

Apartment sales drop in Chisinau

Chisinau has experienced a significant decline in real estate transactions. Data from the Real Estate Cadastre reveals that only 999 apartments were sold in the fourth quarter of 2025, a stark contrast to 4,647 sales during the same period the previous year. This represents a 78.5% decrease in transactions.

Old-Style Orthodox Christians celebrate Epiphany today

Orthodox Christians celebrate Epiphany today, January 19, following the old calendar. This holiday commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ by John the Baptist in the Jordan River at the age of 30.

Chisinau “Eugen Doga” International Airport temporarily suspended after fire alarm

The "Eugen Doga" International Airport in Chisinau temporarily suspended operations on the evening of Sunday, January 18, 2026, after the fire-fighting system was activated within the airport terminal. The incident occurred at approximately 10:40 p.m. when an unidentified individual triggered the alarm button. For safety reasons, all passengers and employees were evacuated from the terminal.

Farmers say 10–15 cm of snow protects wheat from frost

The snow is providing insulation for the winter wheat, shielding it from the recent frost. Farmers in Drochia report that the wheat is in excellent condition, and the snow cover helps protect the plants until spring. They are hopeful for a bountiful, healthy harvest free from frost damage or pests.

Maia Sandu will host the President of Albania, Bajram Begaj, in Chisinau

President Maia Sandu will host the President of Albania, Bajram Begaj, in Chisinau on Monday, January 19. President Begaj is scheduled to make an official visit to Moldova from January 18 to 20 at the invitation of the head of state.

Moldovans in Romania placed 2,938 calls to Moldova’s emergency 112

They go to Romania, and whenever they encountered risky situations, they called home for assistance. From 2018 to 2025, a total of 2,938 citizens of the Republic of Moldova contacted the 112 Service in Chisinau for help while on Romanian territory. This figure refers to the period since the launch of this unique emergency call service in the Republic of Moldova.

MFA: Moldova remains safe for foreigners, including Russians

The Foreign Ministry in Chișinău says the Republic of Moldova poses no security risks for foreign visitors, after diplomacy issued a travel alert for Russian citizens on January 16.

VIDEO | Searches in Chisinau in a car smuggling case: over 100 vehicles seized

Authorities are investigating a smuggling scheme involving transport methods, allegedly linked to citizens from the Republic of Moldova and Romania, following searches in Chisinau.