Moldova electoral process faces hybrid threats despite modern legal reforms

The Republic of Moldova has significantly modernized its electoral processes, yet remains vulnerable to external interference, disinformation, and cyberattacks. These conclusions emerged during a high-level debate on the national broadcaster Moldova 1, featuring representatives from the Central Electoral Commission (CEC), civil society, and political leaders.

Zelenskyy identifies window for peace ahead of critical US elections

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signaled a readiness to engage in direct negotiations with Vladimir Putin, identifying a strategic "window of opportunity" to conclude the war before the US elections in November.

The Hungary Dilemma: Why the European Union cannot expel Viktor Orbán

The European Union currently faces a strategic impasse as it seeks to approve its 20th sanctions package against Russia and a vital €90 billion financial aid package for Ukraine’s 2026-2027 defense needs. Viktor Orbán, maintaining a controversial alignment with Moscow, continues to block both initiatives, demanding the restoration of Russian oil flows via the Druzhba pipeline.

Moldova streamlines emergency response by integrating all crisis hotlines into EVO portal

The Electronic Governance Agency (EGA) has enhanced Moldova’s flagship digital ecosystem, EVO, by centralizing all emergency and crisis assistance hotlines. Starting February 26, users can access vital services directly through a dedicated "Emergency Numbers" interface within the portal.

Russia’s FSB infiltrates Moldovan politics through dual-citizen proxies and organized crime

Moldovan citizens Alexandr Ciuprin and Ludmila Corsun, both holding Russian passports, have been identified as key assets in a Kremlin-backed influence operation. An investigation by Deschide.MD reveals the duo operated under the direct coordination of Vladimir Sukhinin, an officer of the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB).

Moldova State Tax Service targets beauty sector to curb shadow economy

The Moldova State Tax Service (SFS) is launching an extensive monitoring campaign targeting the beauty industry to combat tax evasion. The operation focuses on hair salons and cosmetology clinics, identifying a significant trend of revenue under-reporting across the sector.

US stalls $22bn Lukoil divestment to leverage Russia peace negotiations

The United States has opted to decelerate the sale of Lukoil’s international assets, aiming to amplify pressure on Moscow during ongoing peace negotiations regarding the Ukraine conflict.

Moldova’s Energocom severs operational ties with Moldovagaz, launches independent service hub

Energocom, Moldova's state-owned energy supplier, will launch its first dedicated customer relations center in Chisinau on March 2, 2026. This move officially ends the company's reliance on Moldovagaz’s infrastructure for consumer services.

Six dead and 20 injured in Kazakhstan cafe gas explosion

Six people have died and approximately 20 others were injured following a gas explosion at a cafe in Kazakhstan. The regional emergency situations department reported the incident on February 26, according to official statements.

Moldova joins New European Bauhaus Boost program for small municipalities

The Republic of Moldova is now eligible to participate in the "NEB Boost" program, a landmark initiative launched by the European Commission. The scheme identifies and funds innovative projects that transform local communities into aesthetic, sustainable, and inclusive spaces.

Zelenskyy signals March summit with Trump and Putin in UAE

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced plans for a high-level trilateral summit involving Ukraine, Russia, and the United States, scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates in early March.

Chisinau councilors paid €150 per failed meeting amid two-year budget deadlock

Chisinau municipal councilors are under fire for receiving allowances of approximately €150 (approx. 3,000 MDL) for sessions that never officially took place. Despite failing to pass a municipal budget for nearly two years, officials continue to collect payments for failed attempts to convene.