Eurovision 2026 in Vienna: Moldova will compete in the first semi-final alongside 13 other countries
Moldova1,
13 January 2026 14:30
The Republic of Moldova will participate, along with 14 other countries, in the first semi-final of the Eurovision 2026 music contest. The list was made public on the event's official platform.
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Last hour
15:00
The company Teleradio-Moldova (TRM) will upgrade its audiovisual equipment through purchases funded by a grant from Japan. The draft ratification of the agreement was approved on January 14 at the Executive meeting in Chisinau.
Last 4 hours
13:30
The Republic of Moldova and France are initiating an international volunteering program in enterprises, which will offer young people from the European Economic Area, including France, the opportunity to complete professional internships in Moldova. These activities will take place at the branches of French companies within Moldova or at their partner organizations. The agreement was approved by the Government during a meeting on January 14.
13:30
Three doctors from the Gagauzia Autonomous Region are facing up to three years in prison for alleged malpractice that resulted in the death of two patients. The Prosecutor General's Office has announced that it has submitted two criminal cases to court against these doctors, who are accused of failing to adhere to medical rules and procedures.
Last 6 hours
11:30
The topic of reunifying the Republic of Moldova with Romania was brought back into the spotlight by President Maia Sandu during a recent interview with British journalists. Journalist Robert Lupițu noted that this issue is being addressed with openness in Bucharest. Additionally, analyst Nicolae Negru mentioned on the ÎN CONTEXT show on Moldova 1 during the January 13 edition that the Russian threat could be a significant reason for a historic decision to reunify the two Romanian states.
11:10
At the Palanca customs post, six bars believed to be gold were found in the luggage of a 48-year-old Ukrainian citizen. The individual was one of the 36 passengers on a bus preparing to enter the Republic of Moldova.
10:40
Police raided the homes of two men from the Ialoveni district who were suspected of poaching. During the raid, they discovered illegally owned weapons, ammunition, and other tools allegedly used for illegal hunting.
10:20
Young people both within the country and in the diaspora are encouraged to participate in the National Video Essay Contest titled "Discover My Community," launched by the Ministry of Education and Research. The competition will run from January 9 to February 9, 2026, and is designed for individuals who wish to promote the values and heritage of their communities of origin.
9:50
Russia will strictly limit the employment of migrant workers across most regions starting in 2027, according to legislative amendments reported by Vedomosti.
9:50
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte warned that the era of European reliance on U.S. military spending has ended, calling a 5% GDP defense threshold a "strategic necessity."
Last 8 hours
7:50
Severe winter weather, including heavy snowfall and freezing rain, has paralyzed transport networks across several Central European countries.
Last 24 hours
22:40
Reform implementation report sent to Brussels to underpin disbursement of next EU Growth Plan tranche # Moldova1
The Government in Chisinau will submit a consolidated report to the European Commission by the end of January this year regarding the implementation of reforms. This document will serve as the foundation for the disbursement of the next instalment of the Economic Growth Plan, which is financed by the European Union and amounts to a total of 1.9 billion euros. This information was shared by the Secretary General of the Government, Alexei Buzu, during the "PE FAȚĂ" show on Moldova 1 TV, aired on January 13.
22:30
In 2025, the Republic of Moldova took a significant step in its European integration process by becoming the first candidate country for EU accession to sign an agreement with the European Labour Authority (ELA). Simultaneously, Moldova expanded its network of social security agreements to ensure that Moldovans who have worked legally abroad can access their pension and social benefits rights. This information was shared by Natalia Plugaru, the Minister of Labor and Social Protection, in an interview with the Moldpres agency.
21:50
Michael Carrick revine la Manchester United. Clubul englez a anunțat că fostul mijlocaș va fi antrenor interimar până la finalul acestui sezon competițional. Carrick a fost luat în calcul alături de norvegianul Ole Gunnar Solskjaer pentru a prelua echipa până când clubul va alege un succesor permanent a portughezului Ruben Amorim.
21:20
In 2026, Austria will provide artists from the Republic of Moldova with the opportunity to undertake scholarship-based internships at cultural institutions and in relevant artistic projects in Vienna. The Austrian Ambassador to Chisinau, Stella Avallone, highlighted the Focus International Moldova 2026 project as one of the key initiatives shaping Moldovan-Austrian cooperation. She emphasized that the bilateral relations between the two countries have become increasingly dynamic in recent years.
21:10
Presidential adviser: Romania prepared to discuss union if Moldova considers it an option # Moldova1
Eugen Tomac, MEP and honorary advisor to the President of Romania, Nicușor Dan, stated in an interview with caleaeuropeană.ro on January 13 that any Romanian of good faith, regardless of whether they live on one side of the Prut or the other, views the unification of the Republic of Moldova with Romania as a natural process.
19:40
Modern upgrades for 400 schools and kindergartens in Moldova. World Bank allocates $3.61 million # Moldova1
Two hundred kindergartens and 200 schools in the Republic of Moldova were equipped with new furniture, equipment and teaching materials. The investments made exceed the amount of 3.61 million dollars, money allocated by the World Bank through the "Improving the Quality of Education" project.
16:30
Maia Sandu’s first message to Russia after taking office in 2020. Gas supply cuts, crises, and pressure followed # Moldova1
Shortly after taking office as president and after the Action and Solidarity Party won the 2021 parliamentary elections, Maia Sandu sent Moscow a message of openness, stating that the Republic of Moldova sought “normal, decent relations based on mutual respect” with the Russian Federation. Russia responded differently. An energy crisis erupted in the autumn of 2021, followed by economic pressure and growing tensions around the Transnistrian issue and Moldova’s European path.
16:00
A fire broke out shortly ago in an apartment building on Alecu Russo Street in the Rîșcani district of Chisinau. Fire crews responded at the scene.
Yesterday
14:40
An 81-year-old woman from Lipcani village in the Briceni district died after being burned alive in a fire in her home. Firefighters discovered her partially charred body on the doorstep of her residence.
14:30
Eurovision 2026 in Vienna: Moldova will compete in the first semi-final alongside 13 other countries # Moldova1
The Republic of Moldova will participate, along with 14 other countries, in the first semi-final of the Eurovision 2026 music contest. The list was made public on the event's official platform.
14:30
Latvia is assisting the Republic of Moldova in establishing a national data center, as part of their collaboration aimed at enhancing digitalization and cybersecurity. This commitment to joint initiatives and the desire to strengthen bilateral cooperation were affirmed during a meeting at the Government on January 13.
14:00
Migration has not only changed the employment landscape for Moldovans, but it has also impacted their ability to cope with the loss of loved ones. Between 2020 and 2025, more than 1,600 Moldovan citizens died while abroad. The process of repatriating their remains has become a financial burden for families and a frequent responsibility for authorities.
12:50
Romania, Ukraine, and the Republic of Moldova will establish a trilateral Chamber of Commerce (CCTRUM) to enhance interstate cooperation and improve the management of European funds. This initiative has already received support from over 250 institutions and organizations across the three countries.
12:50
There is significant congestion at "Eugen Doga" International Airport in Chisinau, where passengers are expressing dissatisfaction over unbearable crowding. The airport administration is advising travelers to arrive at the terminal at least three hours prior to their flight.
12:40
The authorities in Kiev have not commented or officially confirmed the ban imposed on Adrian Dulgher, the vice president of the Coalition for Unity and Welfare (CUB) Party, who has reportedly been declared an undesirable person in Ukraine. According to sources cited by the press in Chisinau, Dulgher was banned from entering the neighboring country after questioning the war in Ukraine.
11:30
A total of 241 freelancers have officially registered their independent activities to benefit from the provisions of the law that will enter into force on January 1, 2026, which introduces a simplified taxation regime.
11:20
The Party of Socialists of the Republic of Moldova (PSRM), the largest opposition party in parliament, is calling for President Maia Sandu's resignation. This comes after she stated in an interview that she would vote for unification with Romania if a referendum were held. The Party of Communists (PCRM) also labelled her statements as "an act of treason" and is demanding her resignation and departure from the country.
11:10
Two individuals from Cahul were arrested after allegedly attempting to profit quickly by soliciting 2,000 euros to help someone pass the theoretical and practical tests of a driving exam. They are now detained at the National Anticorruption Center (CNA).
10:30
Moldova and the United Kingdom sign Popșoi–Cooper agreement to boost strategic cooperation # Moldova1
During a phone conversation with British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popșoi focused on strengthening the Moldovan-British partnership in strategic areas and enhancing economic relations. The discussion emphasized initiatives aimed at bringing the business communities of both countries closer together.
10:20
The economy of the Republic of Moldova is gradually recovering from a period of stagnation and various challenges, according to the latest United Nations report "World Economic Situation and Prospects for 2026". Following years impacted by the pandemic, the energy crisis, and record inflation, the UN forecasts indicate a predicted acceleration in economic growth and a noticeable moderation in inflation in the coming years.
10:20
He planned to fly from Chisinau to Bratislava with 88 vials of an unidentified substance. A 31-year-old Slovak citizen is under investigation by law enforcement and faces sanctions.
9:40
Over 8,500 colorectal screening tests in 2025, with hundreds sent for further investigations # Moldova1
In 2025, over 8,500 people benefited from colorectal screening services provided through a prevention program funded by public health resources, according to the National Health Insurance Company.
9:20
Global tourism is no longer merely focused on statistics, regulations, and finances; it is increasingly about people, courage, and transformative experiences. Natalia Ciobanu, a traveler from the Republic of Moldova, has visited 163 countries and aims to visit every country in the world.
9:10
Emergency services face a demanding start to the year amid accidents, poisonings, and hypothermia # Moldova1
In just under two weeks since the start of the year, there have been 80 road accidents in the Republic of Moldova that required ambulance intervention. These incidents resulted in injuries to 109 individuals, with 79 patients, including 16 children, needing to be transported to the hospital.
12 January 2026
21:20
The State Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry, Vasile Șerban, states that the low temperatures expected during this period should not negatively impact grapevine plantations. He noted that most grape varieties cultivated in the Republic of Moldova can withstand temperatures as low as minus 18 to minus 22 degrees Celsius. Additionally, he emphasized that winter frosts are not as harmful as late spring frosts, which pose a greater risk. As a result, the potential damage to grapevines is expected to be minimal.
20:40
First electricity expected on the Vulcănești–Chișinău line by late February–early March, Dorin Junghietu # Moldova1
The Vulcănești-Chișinău high-voltage power line, the largest energy project in the Republic of Moldova, is now in the final stages of preparation for testing. According to Minister of Energy Dorin Junghietu, the first shipments of electricity could be transported by the end of February or the beginning of March. This was announced during the "La 360 de grade" program on Radio Moldova.
19:00
Over 43,400 residents from 42 localities in the Republic of Moldova will benefit from the modernization of local road infrastructure through 28 new projects financed by the "Europe is Close" Program. According to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development (MIDR), the projects aim to rehabilitate communal and local roads and construct pedestrian paths and access platforms to public institutions.
18:50
Ana Luca was appointed as the new deputy director of the Customs Service. She previously served as the deputy secretary general of the Ministry of Finance and was officially introduced to the staff on January 12.
16:30
Moldova picks Eurovision representative on January 17; Paula Seling and Jamala in the National Final # Moldova1
The Republic of Moldova will select its representative for the Eurovision Song Contest on Saturday, January 17, during the National Final. This event will be held at the Chisinau Arena, starting at 7:00 p.m. It marks the country's return to the competition and introduces significant changes in the organization of the selection process. Andrei Zapșa, the deputy general director of "Teleradio-Moldova" (TRM), which oversees the television broadcasting, shared these details during an interview on the "Bună dimineața" show on Moldova 1.
16:20
The National Integrity Authority (ANI) launched an investigation into MP Vasile Costiuc, leader of the "Democracy at Home" Party, following a complaint alleging a possible violation of the legal regime on incompatibilities.
16:10
During December 2025, hundreds of employees from public institutions, private companies, and non-governmental organisations donated approximately 8,000 books as part of the fourth edition of the "Library under the Christmas Tree" campaign organised by the government.
16:00
The National Food Safety Agency (ANSA) has announced the withdrawal of new batches of Nestlé brand baby milk powder due to non-compliance with an ingredient supplied by external sources.
15:50
VIDEO | Maia Sandu: “It is becoming increasingly difficult for a country like Moldova to survive” # Moldova1
The geopolitical situation in our region poses significant challenges for countries like the Republic of Moldova. President Maia Sandu asserts that joining the European Union would help safeguard our sovereignty. Another possible solution is reunification with Romania; however, the president notes that, at this time, there is insufficient support for this aspiration.
15:50
The former leader of the Democratic Party of Moldova (PDM), Vlad Plahotniuc, along with his former advisor, Serghei Iaralov, and several former deputies, will testify as witnesses in the case known as "kuliok" (which means "black bag"). This case involves the former President of the Republic of Moldova, Igor Dodon, who is currently on trial. On Monday, December 12, the magistrates of the Supreme Court of Justice partially granted the prosecutors' request and established the list of witnesses who will appear before the court.
More than 2 days ago
15:30
Farmers are calling for a requirement that at least 50% of the products sold in stores be sourced domestically. However, enforcing this measure poses challenges, as retail chains tend to favor suppliers who can guarantee quality, large quantities, and consistent deliveries, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry.
13:50
A single blood donation can save at least three lives, and Alexandru Radu knows this from personal experience rather than just statistics. He has donated blood 63 times and is committed to continuing this practice whenever he can. The first life he saved was not just an anonymous recipient; it was a child from his neighborhood who had been seriously injured in an accident.
13:50
The Christmas Fair in Great National Assembly Square will continue until January 25, one week longer than previously announced. The fair will conclude with a raffle organized by the Chisinau City Hall.
11:00
The second session of the Meeting of the Presidents of the Conference of the Specialized Bodies for Community and European Affairs (COSAC) will focus on European geopolitical challenges. This event is taking place on January 11-12 in Cyprus. The Republic of Moldova is being represented by Marcel Spatari, the Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee for European Integration.
10:50
President Maia Sandu's properties remained unchanged in 2025, while her salary increased, according to the asset declaration submitted to the National Integrity Authority (ANI). The document reveals that Maia Sandu still owns the same real estate as in previous years, but her savings are noticeably more modest compared to what she reported at the start of her first term.
9:40
Moldova’s path to the EU, explored with experts on Moldova 1’s “Me and the European Union” # Moldova1
Moldova1 TV is launching a new show titled "Me and the European Union". This editorial project will explore the steps involved in the Republic of Moldova's accession to the EU. Experts, officials, and civil servants engaged in aligning Moldova with EU standards will discuss relevant topics. The first episode will be available to watch on Wednesday, January 14, starting at 8:00 p.m.
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