A nation of two Christmases: Why Moldova marks the holiday twice
Radio Moldova,
25 December 2025 8:50
Today, December 25, Christians in Moldova celebrate the Nativity of the Lord according to the Gregorian calendar. This date marks one of the most significant pillars of the Christian faith.
• • •
More news from Radio Moldova
Last 15 min
17:10
More accurate evidence, fewer errors: National Police introduce 3D crime scene scanning # Radio Moldova
The National Police of the Republic of Moldova has been equipped with a state-of-the-art 3D scanner, enabling faster and more accurate crime scene documentation through complete virtual reconstructions that can be used as court evidence.
Last 30 min
17:00
A 20-year-old man lost his life in a serious road accident that occurred on Saturday morning on the Baurci–Ceadâr-Lunga road, after he lost control of the steering wheel and crashed violently into a tree. Two other people, passengers in the car, were injured and required medical attention.
Last 4 hours
13:50
Former Moldovan Prime Minister Vlad Filat was added to Interpol's international wanted list, according to a notice from the Interpol Central Bureau in Paris, confirmed by authorities in Chisinau. This announcement follows a French court's decision to sentence him in absentia to two years in prison for money laundering.
13:50
Creangă’s lawyers submit video evidence on money origin; prosecutor calls it irrelevant # Radio Moldova
On December 26, the lawyers representing Ion Creangă, the former head of the Legal Department of Parliament, presented video evidence regarding the source of the money found on him at the time of his arrest. The recording shows Ion Creangă meeting with his brother, Ștefan Creangă, while carrying a bag, and then getting into a car. The defence aims to use these images to support their argument that the money found with Creangă is not linked to the alleged crimes. However, prosecutors argue that the evidence presented does not substantiate this claim.
Last 6 hours
12:10
Traffic on the streets of Chișinău is currently flowing normally, and public transport operates on its regular schedule, the Chișinău City Hall reports, despite the unfavourable weather conditions of recent hours.
11:30
Unfavorable weather conditions over recent hours have caused major traffic disruptions on several road sections across the Republic of Moldova. According to the National Police, ice and black ice continue to form on road surfaces, sharply reducing traction and increasing the risk of traffic accidents.
Last 8 hours
9:50
After spending 18 years in Italy, Artur Boldurescu returned to his hometown of Hâncești with a clear dream: to bring authentic Italian flavors to the area. He succeeded by investing in and opening a panini restaurant, the only one of its kind in the city. The establishment has already won over customers with its fresh ingredients and unique preparations.
Last 12 hours
9:20
“The Magic of the Female Face” — soulful jewelry meets portrait art in a museum exhibition # Radio Moldova
The exhibition "The Magic of the Female Face" showcases the subtle beauty of semi-precious stones alongside the expressive power of the female face. It opened at the History Museum of the City of Chisinau and features handmade jewelry and painted portraits, all created by Olga Slastihin. Originally an architect, Slastihin discovered her artistic vocation after retiring.
Last 24 hours
20:40
Security services clarify flying object origin following high alert in northern Moldova # Radio Moldova
Ukrainian radar systems detected a flying object over Moldova on the afternoon of December 26, which authorities later identified as a hot air balloon.
19:50
Moldovan Ambassador to the United States, Vlad Kulminski, has announced that a high-level meeting is being prepared to strengthen bilateral relations between the Republic of Moldova and the United States.
19:10
Moldova’s National Police is modernizing its forensic capabilities by introducing state-of-the-art 3D laser scanners.
18:20
Ten Moldovan villages to gain clean water access through new 46-kilometer pipeline project # Radio Moldova
More than 12,000 residents in the Sângerei district will soon have access to safe drinking water. This follows the launch of a major regional infrastructure project to build water supply networks for ten local communities.
17:40
The showdown between world number one Aryna Sabalenka and Nick Kyrgios is emerging as the most anticipated sporting spectacle of the year-end.
Yesterday
16:50
Chisinau authorities have dismantled a sophisticated international drug trafficking network operating across Poland, Ukraine, Georgia, Romania, and Moldova.
15:20
A wave of solidarity has connected children from both banks of the Prut River. Students from Gymnasium School No. 66 in Bucharest, Romania, launched a charity drive to support their peers in Soroca, Moldova.
14:30
Chisinau moves away from chlorine treatment amid €45 million infrastructure overhaul # Radio Moldova
Tap water in Chisinau is safe for consumption and poses no health risks, according to Diana Tacu, the Interim General Director of Apă-Canal Chișinău (ACC).
13:00
Trump orders military strikes in Nigeria and Syria to "stop the massacre" of innocents # Radio Moldova
US President Donald Trump announced on Friday night that the United States has conducted "numerous strikes" against Islamic State (ISIS) targets in northwestern Nigeria.
12:10
Moldova celebrates cultural and medical heritage with new commemorative silver coins # Radio Moldova
The National Bank of Moldova (BNM) has officially released two new commemorative silver coins into circulation on December 26.
11:30
The European Commission has reaffirmed that the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Kingdom of Denmark, including Greenland, must be preserved. The statement followed Donald Trump’s appointment of a special envoy to the territory.
10:30
Ukraine is accelerating its diplomatic efforts to end the war, ensuring all transition steps are realistic and effective, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced following high-level talks with U.S. presidential envoys.
9:30
Christmas traditions vary significantly across the globe. In the Gaza Strip, Christmas was observed for the first time following two years of conflict, with local communities offering prayers for lasting peace.
8:40
Newly released documents show Putin sought Russia’s accession to NATO during Bush presidency # Radio Moldova
A declassified transcript released by the U.S. National Security Archive reveals that in 2001, Russian President Vladimir Putin asked his American counterpart, George W. Bush, to consider Russia's entry into NATO.
8:00
Holiday magic returns to Chisinau as international performers light up the circus arena # Radio Moldova
Families in Chisinau have stepped into a vibrant world of holiday magic at the Chisinau Circus. Beneath a dome ablaze with festive lights and colors, the audience experienced a spectacle of world-class acrobats, skilled jugglers, and trained animal acts.
25 December 2025
20:50
Financial watchdog adds 4,000 names to extremist registry as Kremlin intensifies crackdown # Radio Moldova
Russia’s federal financial monitoring service, Rosfinmonitoring, expanded its registry of "terrorists and extremists" by a record 4,018 names in 2025. According to an investigation by the outlet Viorstka, this represents a 26% increase compared to the previous year.
20:10
WhatsApp has announced it will defend the right of its Russian users to private communication. This comes as Russian authorities continue to throttle messaging services, prompting citizens to sue Roskomnadzor and the Ministry of Digital Development.
19:20
Roaming, cheaper transfers, and new markets: Moldova's record year on the road to EU # Radio Moldova
The Republic of Moldova took decisive strides toward European Union membership in 2025, advancing critical reforms across all strategic sectors.
18:40
From Amsterdam to Chisinau: passengers surprised with Moldovan sparkling wine upon arrival # Radio Moldova
Travelers landing at Chisinau "Eugen Doga" International Airport recently experienced a unique reception designed to showcase Moldova’s authentic heritage.
17:50
Over the past seven years, the primary and secondary education system in the Republic of Moldova has undergone a gradual restructuring.
More than 2 days ago
17:00
Wine, whether sparkling or still, is more than just a drink—it is the soul of a festive meal. Sommelier Andrei Cibotaru explains how the right selection can transform any celebration into a sensory journey.
16:10
The "Student of the Year 2025" will be named on December 27 during the 13th edition of the Gala of Students Originating from the Republic of Moldova.
15:30
The Public Services Agency (ASP) announced that the application process has become significantly more rigorous.
14:40
Ukrainian unity, faith, and identity remain stronger than the war, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy declared in his Christmas message.
14:10
Vice Prime Minister Vladimir Bolea has outlined a massive infrastructure agenda for 2025 and 2026, headlined by the "Europe is Close" and "European Courtyard" initiatives. These programs form part of a broader strategy involving over 1,600 active projects across the country.
12:30
Moldovan police successfully embedded an undercover operative within the inner circle and residence of the prime suspect in the Beriozchi case (Anenii Noi district). The operation aimed to secure critical evidence regarding the disappearance and presumed murder of a 61-year-old man.
12:00
The total number of food service establishments in Russia fell by 3.1% year-on-year this November. Data from Yandex Maps indicates a loss of approximately 3,700 venues, leaving the national total at 115,000.
11:10
In 2025, Moldova's social policy was defined by rising incomes and increased public investment, set against the backdrop of unresolved structural flaws. While pensions and salaries saw double-digit growth, many citizens faced high living costs and unstable employment.
10:20
High-ranking officials in Moldova and international partners delivered Christmas greetings today. They shared wishes for peace, health, and national unity. The messages focused on both spiritual traditions and the country's goals for the coming year.Presidential and parliamentary greetingsPresident Maia Sandu greeted citizens through a symbolic video message. Appearing alongside children while decorating the Christmas tree, the head of state offered a simple, heartfelt wish: "Merry Christmas!"
9:30
The Zepbound breakthrough: How John Cole traded medication and sanctions for Nobel laureate’s freedom # Radio Moldova
In a striking display of unconventional diplomacy, Donald Trump’s special envoy, John Cole, reportedly secured the release of hundreds of Belarusian political prisoners by bonding with dictator Alexander Lukashenko over weight-loss medication.
8:50
Today, December 25, Christians in Moldova celebrate the Nativity of the Lord according to the Gregorian calendar. This date marks one of the most significant pillars of the Christian faith.
24 December 2025
22:00
State-of-the-art laboratories that meet European standards have been inaugurated at the "Nicolae Testemițanu" State University of Medicine and Pharmacy (USMF) in the Republic of Moldova. These facilities provide students direct access to advanced technologies in the pharmaceutical field. Students can now follow the entire process of developing a medicine, from computer simulations to the actual formulation in the laboratory, in a unique space dedicated to education through research.
22:00
The center of Chisinau was filled with the sound of carols as adults and children celebrated Christmas Eve in a fresh and vibrant style at the Great National Assembly Square, despite the chilly temperatures. Festive lights, live music, and the delightful aroma of boiled wine and sweet treats created a magical atmosphere in the square, where the cold seemed to fade away, leaving only joy and the true spirit of the holidays.
20:10
Young woman jailed for five years and six months for involving a 13-year-old in drug trafficking # Radio Moldova
A 26-year-old woman from Hâncești was sentenced to five years and six months in prison for drug trafficking, involving a 13-year-old teenager. The sentence was issued by the Chișinău Court.
20:00
Consolidation, diplomacy, and EU accession: analysts review the first year of Maia Sandu’s new mandate # Radio Moldova
During the first year of President Maia Sandu's second term, the Republic of Moldova experienced a remarkable stabilization of its governmental structure and a significant shift in its international relations. Political analyst Ion Tăbârță points out that this period has marked a new phase in which the quality of governance and the progress of European integration are now the primary indicators of success. Additionally, Sorin Ioniță, director of Expert Forum Romania, highlights that the electoral victories and proactive foreign diplomacy have transformed the Republic of Moldova from an isolated nation into a successful example for the European Union. These insights were shared during the ZI DE ZI program on Radio Moldova.
19:40
Eugen Doga Airport reaches 6 million passengers in 2025 and announces major expansions # Radio Moldova
Since the beginning of the year, six million passengers have passed through Eugen Doga International Airport. The record was set by Adriana Munteanu, a Moldovan resident of Dubai, who returned to spend the holidays in the Republic of Moldova. In light of the rising number of travelers, the authorities promised significant investments and plans to expand the airport terminal.
18:40
A young man was accused of raping and murdering a woman in an apartment in Chisinau in February. He is also alleged to have attempted to stage her death as a suicide. The prosecution has completed the criminal investigation and has submitted the case to the court. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison or life imprisonment.
18:30
School-level decision: students return to classes on January 9 or 12 after winter break # Radio Moldova
Students in all general education institutions across the country have been on winter break since December 25. They will return to classes on either January 9 or January 12, depending on the decisions made by school administrations.
16:00
The academic community of the Academy of Music, Theatre and Fine Arts (AMTAP) announces with deep sadness the passing of pianist and pedagogue Iurie Mahovici—university professor, Master of Arts, and People’s Artist—a prominent figure in the musical life of the Republic of Moldova. The renowned pianist passed away at the age of 63.
14:00
European model economy – Minister of Finance: 'We are ensuring predictability and better conditions for investors' # Radio Moldova
The ongoing war in Ukraine creates uncertainty for foreign investors; however, the Republic of Moldova is steadily building its credibility. According to Finance Minister Andrian Gavriliță, in an interview on the "Bună dimineața" show on Moldova 1 TV, the government's priority is to support both local entrepreneurs and foreign companies operating in the country.
13:50
Today, December 24, searches are being conducted in a criminal case concerning violations of construction execution rules. This investigation is focused on the construction of a multifunctional complex on the site of the former "Gaudeamus" cinema, located in the center of Chișinău.
13:50
On December 24, law enforcement officers conducted raids in several districts of southern and central Moldova as part of a criminal investigation into the illegal organization of online gambling. The searches focused on individuals suspected of creating and managing unauthorized platforms, including the 1xBT platform.
©2004—2025 News.yam.md.
All news stories belong to mentioned sources. Please contact the source for any queries you may have regarding the content it provides.Terms of Use.