Kyrgyzstan News Online — Latest Events in Bishkek and the Regions | MTS.kg
Exclusive

This year, the world oil price will decrease from $69 to $56, - U.S. Department of Energy

- The forecasts from the U.S. Department of Energy indicate that the average annual spot price for Brent crude oil will drop from $69 observed in 2025 to $56 in 2026. This information is presented in the January forecast from the Energy Information Administration. Throughout 2025, oil prices decreased from $76 to below $64. In the upcoming year of 2026, further declines are expected: first to $59 in the first quarter, and then to $53 by the end of the year.

21.01.2026, 10:04
The Association of Agricultural Producers of Kyrgyzstan clarified the situation regarding LLC "Rikha"
Exclusive

The Association of Agricultural Producers of Kyrgyzstan clarified the situation regarding LLC "Rikha"

The Association for the Development of the Agricultural Sector of Kyrgyzstan has issued a statement to citizens, government bodies, and the media regarding the false information about the company LLC 'Rikha' that has started to spread in the public domain. At the meeting of the Budget, Economy, and Entrepreneurship Committee of the Jogorku Kenesh on January 19, 2026, accusations were made against LLC 'Rikha' concerning the revocation of its license, violations of

21.01.2026, 10:01
Society

Unusual Predators Shot Near the Border of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan

Unusual jackals were shot at the border of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. One of the sport hunters reported that during a hunt for jackals in an area adjacent to Kazakhstan, they noticed predators with unusual coloring in the reeds. "They had white spots on their fur. At first, we thought they were stray dogs, but when we looked at them more closely, we realized they were jackals," he noted.

21.01.2026, 10:00
Ecology

"Mini-football fields are being built on a rocky plot of land in the Botanical Garden, - Deputy Director of the Botanic Garden"

In the Botanical Garden, construction of mini-football fields has begun on a plot with rocky soil. This was reported on January 21 during a broadcast on "Birinchi Radio" by Nurbek Albanov, the deputy director of the garden. According to Albanov, the botanical garden, located on Akhunbaev Street, covers an area of 127 hectares. The mini-football fields are planned to be placed near the entrance that leads to this same street.

21.01.2026, 09:58
Why is there still no "Pushkin Card" for children in Kyrgyzstan?
Society

Why is there still no "Pushkin Card" for children in Kyrgyzstan?

Several large families have approached the editorial office of VB.KG with a request to draw attention to the lack of a social support system for children in the fields of culture, sports, and leisure in Kyrgyzstan. Each family has its own story, but they all face similar difficulties. Parents express dissatisfaction that large families do not receive any discounts when visiting museums, theaters, and sports facilities. They propose creating a program similar to the Russian "Pushkin

21.01.2026, 09:58
GKNB: A group that organized a network of webcam studios in Bishkek and Kazakhstan has been detained
Exclusive

GKNB: A group that organized a network of webcam studios in Bishkek and Kazakhstan has been detained

Operatives conducted searches at the residences of the detainees and seized numerous pieces of evidence, including webcams, lighting equipment, computers, and other technical devices, as well as erotic costumes and props used for online broadcasts. It has been established that the group members primarily broadcasted on platforms offering webcam services, such as "Chaturbate (CB)", "Stripchat (strip)", and "BongaCams". The proceeds from their criminal activities

21.01.2026, 09:56
In Spain, another train derailed, one person died, 30 were injured
World

In Spain, another train derailed, one person died, 30 were injured

As a result of the train crash in Catalonia, Spain, one person died and more than 30 were injured. Following the incident, transport movement in the region was completely suspended. According to the publication El Mundo, a suburban passenger train derailed near the town of Gelida after colliding with a fallen retaining wall that collapsed onto the tracks due to heavy rains.

21.01.2026, 09:55
The GDP of Kyrgyzstan grew by 11.1% over the year, reaching nearly 2 trillion soms.
Economy

The GDP of Kyrgyzstan grew by 11.1% over the year, reaching nearly 2 trillion soms.

According to official information, Kyrgyzstan's GDP demonstrated an impressive real growth rate of 11.1% compared to 2024, highlighting the stability of the country's economic policy. The leading role in this growth was played by the services sector, which accounts for more than half of the economy — 51.2%. Industry, agriculture, and construction together make up 34.4% of the total GDP, while net taxes on products account for the remaining 14.4%. Such significant growth in gross

21.01.2026, 09:54
Exclusive

Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan Discussed Strengthening Trade and Economic Cooperation

- At the meeting held on January 20 in Ashgabat, Mederbek Tumanov, Deputy Minister of Economy and Commerce of Kyrgyzstan, held talks with Babaniyaz Yalakov, his colleague from Turkmenistan. The press service of the Ministry of Economy reported on the progress of the discussions. Participants in the meeting confirmed their intentions to continue implementing previously reached agreements. The main focus was on the implementation of the Protocol of the 6th meeting of the Intergovernmental

21.01.2026, 09:45
The Secretary General of the OTG spoke at the Global Tourism Forum in Davos
World

The Secretary General of the OTG spoke at the Global Tourism Forum in Davos

At the forum, which took place during the World Economic Forum Week, key topics concerning the interconnection of geopolitics, economic security, and the future of the global tourism sector were discussed. In his speech, Omuraliyev highlighted the strategic priorities of the Turkic Council in the fields of tourism and cultural interaction. He emphasized that tourism is a significant tool of soft power that contributes to strengthening international trust and regional stability through improved

21.01.2026, 09:44
In Kain, a man was beaten at a car wash. Suspects detained.
Incidents

In Kain, a man was beaten at a car wash. Suspects detained.

In the Panfilov district, a criminal investigation has been initiated in connection with the infliction of minor bodily harm to a man. This was reported by the press service of the Main Department of Internal Affairs of the Chui region. The incident occurred on December 16, 2025, at the LEGACY self-service car wash in the city of Kainda. A citizen, T.K., born in 1994, reported to the police that he was attacked by unknown individuals who acted as a group and used physical force to inflict

21.01.2026, 09:41
In 2026, Kyrgyzstan will need over 182 thousand tons of fertilizers
Society

In 2026, Kyrgyzstan will need over 182 thousand tons of fertilizers

In Kyrgyzstan, a campaign has begun to import mineral fertilizers aimed at meeting the agricultural needs for 2026. According to information from the press service of the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic, the total demand of farmers in the republic this season is 182.8 thousand tons.

21.01.2026, 09:37
Politics

At the forum in Davos, Trump was criticized for his claims on Greenland

At the economic forum in Davos, Donald Trump became the target of criticism from European politicians due to his claims on Greenland. Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever expressed his intention to convey to the U.S. president that his actions are unacceptable. The meeting with Trump, scheduled for the next day, will have a different nature than originally anticipated. "We must inform him that he is crossing red lines. If we split, it will mark the end of an 80-year era of

21.01.2026, 09:34
Society

A girl from the orphanage will receive half a million soms after the intervention of the ombudsman

Jamila Dzhamanbaeva, the ombudsman of Kyrgyzstan, has advocated for the rights of a girl living in an orphanage. As a result of her actions, the girl will receive social assistance in the amount of 518,000 soms, as reported by the press service of the akiykatchi. In 2025, staff from the ombudsman’s office conducted monitoring of children's institutions in the Chui region, during which a number of violations requiring rectification were identified.

21.01.2026, 09:34
Delays in Flights at Manas International Airport Due to Fog
Society

Delays in Flights at Manas International Airport Due to Fog

Flight delays have occurred at Manas International Airport due to adverse weather conditions. The press service of the OJSC "Airports of Kyrgyzstan" confirmed this information. According to the received data, three morning flights to Antalya, Kazan, and Sharm El Sheikh have been delayed.

21.01.2026, 09:34
Politics

Dastan Bekeshev: You don't even need 10 months of training to learn how to drive tanks

At the parliamentary meeting, Deputy Dastan Bekeshev expressed the opinion that tank driving training should not take 10 months. In his view, the proposed changes to the procedure for obtaining a driver's license require reconsideration. He noted that such a lengthy training period is excessive. Dastan Bekeshev emphasized that improving driving culture should start in kindergartens and schools, rather than through long courses. "Even for driving tanks, such an extended training period

21.01.2026, 09:33
Society

Scientists stated: the modernization of the Botanic Garden will proceed without harming science

At the Enver Gareev Botanical Garden, construction will begin on a mini-football field in an area that has long been considered unsuitable for gardening. This was reported by Nurlan Albanov, the deputy director of the Botanical Garden, in an interview on "Birinchi Radio." According to him, the project has received approval from both the president and the leadership of the National Academy of Sciences, and no capital structures are planned to be built on the garden's territory.

21.01.2026, 09:33
Lukashenko signed a document on Belarus's accession to Trump's "Council for Peace"
World

Lukashenko signed a document on Belarus's accession to Trump's "Council for Peace"

Lukashenko expressed confidence that Belarus would be able to contribute to the discussion of peace initiatives regarding the situation in Ukraine. "We can help, discuss, and promote the peace process, as well as influence the Ukrainian leadership," he noted. In addition, the president denied information about the need to make an initial contribution of $1 billion for participation in the Council. According to him, under the charter, membership as a founding member is free for the

21.01.2026, 09:29
Trump once again reaffirms his position on Greenland, stating that "there's no turning back."
Exclusive

Trump once again reaffirms his position on Greenland, stating that "there's no turning back."

In response to a question about the possible consequences for NATO if he decides to pay for Greenland, Trump noted: "No one has done more for NATO than I have, in every way." He added that NATO would be satisfied, and this is necessary for global security. However, he also expressed doubts that the alliance would support the U.S. if needed: "I doubt they will come to our aid," he said. Trump plans to arrive in Davos on Wednesday, where, according to him, "many meetings

21.01.2026, 09:26
Economy

The Antimonopoly Service approved new rates for the examination of design and estimate documentation

- On December 29, 2025, Order No. 108 of the Antimonopoly Regulation Service under the Ministry of Economy and Commerce was signed, concerning the cost of expertise for project and estimate documentation for individuals and legal entities. This document covers the services provided by the State Expertise Department, which operates under the auspices of the Ministry of Construction, Architecture, and Housing and Communal Services. The new price list was approved based on materials submitted by

21.01.2026, 09:25
Society

For 53,000 people, there are 14 employees. Citizens complain about the results of the ATP.

Deputy Azizbek Tursunbaev reported at a meeting of the Jogorku Kenesh about the problems arising from the administrative-territorial reform, as a result of which some rural districts were merged, but the number of employees in the village administration remained the same. According to him, the rural district in the Ala-Buka region now has over 53,000 residents, while only 14 people work in the village administration.

21.01.2026, 09:21
America Against the World: How Trump's Foreign Policy is Changing the International Order - Political Scientist Robert Kagan
World

America Against the World: How Trump's Foreign Policy is Changing the International Order - Political Scientist Robert Kagan

The article will appear in the March 2026 issue of The Atlantic under the title "Every Man for Himself." Kagan is a columnist for The Atlantic, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, and the author of the book "The Twilight of Democracy: The Seductive Lure of Authoritarianism." Kagan argues that Trump's national security strategy officially marked the end of the American liberal world order, which was based on U.S. dominance. This happened not due to material

21.01.2026, 09:16
The company "Alliance Altyn" became second in the ranking of the TOP-500 largest companies in Kyrgyzstan
Exclusive

The company "Alliance Altyn" became second in the ranking of the TOP-500 largest companies in Kyrgyzstan

“Alliance Altyn” confidently holds the second position in the corporate sector of the Kyrgyz Republic, according to a recent ranking of “TOP-500 Companies: Financial Stability and Structural Shifts in the Economy for the First Half of 2025.” This list was published on January 13, 2026, in the magazine “Ratings of 500 Companies,” issued by the National Statistical Committee in collaboration with the news agency “Akipress” (the publication “Tazabek”). The study is based on official data from the

21.01.2026, 09:16
In Tokmok, a man and a woman kidnapped a 17-year-old girl and attempted to kill her
Incidents

In Tokmok, a man and a woman kidnapped a 17-year-old girl and attempted to kill her

In Tokmok, an incident occurred in which a man and a woman kidnapped a 17-year-old girl and attempted to kill her, as reported by representatives of the Main Internal Affairs Department of the Chui region. The incident took place on January 17, 2026, when on January 18, the girl's mother contacted law enforcement. She reported that her underage daughter, I.T., had been forcibly placed into a white Hyundai Grandeur by unfamiliar individuals named E. and A. near the "Atake" store.

21.01.2026, 09:13
The Turkish Week took place in Vienna from January 12 to 15.
World

The Turkish Week took place in Vienna from January 12 to 15.

As part of Turk Week, the Days of Turkic Cinema were held, along with a photo exhibition titled "The Turkic World on the Silk Road," and a round table discussion on the topic "From the Silk Road to the Middle Corridor: Enhancing Connectivity through the Development of Transport Infrastructure and Simplifying Trade Processes." Additionally, the program included a gala concert and many other cultural and business events showcasing the diversity of the activities of the Turkic

21.01.2026, 09:12
Flights Delayed at Manas Airport
Society

Flights Delayed at Manas Airport

In the morning, delays of flights were registered at the Manas International Airport due to adverse weather conditions, reports the press service of the OJSC "Airports of Kyrgyzstan". Currently, three flights are delayed on the following routes: Antalya; Kazan; Sharm el-Sheikh. It is specified that visibility in the area of the airport is at times only 300 meters. As a result, flight delays may continue until 11:00. Passengers are urged to check the current information about

21.01.2026, 09:11
In Kazakhstan, a law is proposed to protect the rights of atheists
Exclusive

In Kazakhstan, a law is proposed to protect the rights of atheists

Berikbayev pointed out that in recent years there has been an increase in attacks on atheists and people who do not belong to any religion. Ulysmedia.kz reports that such insults and accusations of a lack of morality often go unanswered, which is a worrying signal for society. The religious scholar also provided a specific example. A lecturer from the Islamic University "Nur-Mubarak" during his public speech compared atheists to animals, claiming that non-believers are incapable of

21.01.2026, 08:59
Economy

The Ministry of Construction of the Kyrgyz Republic identified violations during the construction of an educational center in Bishkek. Fine — 200,000 soms

The Minister of Construction, Architecture, and Housing and Communal Services of the Kyrgyz Republic, Nurdin Oruntaev, along with inspectors from the Department of State Architectural and Construction Control, is conducting inspections at several construction sites in Bishkek. During the inspections at the facilities of the company LLC "Bina Group", violations of construction norms and standards were discovered. In particular, this concerns a 5-story training center located at

21.01.2026, 08:54
Bodies of a schoolgirl and a man found in a burned car in Chui region
Incidents

Bodies of a schoolgirl and a man found in a burned car in Chui region

Earlier, complaints were recorded regarding electrical problems with the vehicle In the Moscow district of the Chui region, the bodies of two people—a 16-year-old schoolgirl and a 26-year-old man—were found in a burned Volkswagen Golf 3. This was reported by the regional Department of Internal Affairs.

21.01.2026, 08:52
Silver has risen to a record high following gold.
Economy

Silver has risen to a record high following gold.

On Tuesday, January 20, there was a significant increase in the price of silver during commodity trading, which was a result of a similar rise in gold prices. Data from Comex, a division of the New York Mercantile Exchange, confirms this fact. At 12:10 Moscow time, the price of the precious metal exceeded $95 per troy ounce for the first time, reaching $95.2. Thus, the increase compared to the previous trading session was 7.52 percent.

21.01.2026, 08:50
Exchange rates for January 21
Economy

Exchange rates for January 21

The National Bank has published the current exchange rates of foreign currencies against the Kyrgyz som as of January 21, 2026. US Dollar (USD) — 87.45 som (rate unchanged); Euro (EUR) — 102.5089 som (increase compared to the previous day); Russian Ruble (RUB) — 1.1228 som (increase); Kazakh Tenge (KZT) — 0.1725 som (growth); Chinese Yuan (CNY) — 12.5666 som (slight increase). In commercial banks, the average purchase price of the dollar is 87.30 soms, while the sale price is 87.80 soms.

21.01.2026, 08:49
The mayor advocated for an increase in parking fees in the central part of Bishkek.
Society

The mayor advocated for an increase in parking fees in the central part of Bishkek.

In Bishkek, the problem of traffic jams continues to be one of the most pressing issues. Mayor Aibek Junushaliev shared his thoughts on ways to address this issue in a podcast organized by the Kabar agency, discussing plans for the future. According to him, there are over 460,000 registered vehicles in the city, and the existing infrastructure cannot cope with such a volume. Work to improve the situation began in 2024, but the mayor emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to

21.01.2026, 08:49
Cryptodollars for Debauchery: Webcam Scheme Liquidated in Bishkek
Incidents

Cryptodollars for Debauchery: Webcam Scheme Liquidated in Bishkek

The State Committee for National Security reported the cessation of a transnational network of webcam studios operating in Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. During the operation, four citizens of Kyrgyzstan were detained, who were part of an organized criminal group that organized internet broadcasts of erotic content and ensured the operation of studios in both countries.

21.01.2026, 08:48
Economy

The volume of trade between China and Central Asian countries increased by 12 percent

According to the Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China, trade volume between China and Central Asia increased by 12% in 2025, as reported by the Xinhua News Agency citing a source. Trade cooperation between China and the Central Asian regions has shown significant growth, reaching 106.3 billion dollars in trade turnover, which is 12% more compared to 2024.

21.01.2026, 08:41
World

Passenger trains derailed in two European countries

Two incidents involving railway transport occurred in Europe, according to media reports. In Spain, near Gelida, a commuter train derailed after colliding with a collapsed retaining wall following heavy rains. As reported by El Mundo, the incident resulted in the death of the train driver, and more than 15 people were injured, several of whom are in critical condition.

21.01.2026, 08:29
Events in Ukraine and the World. Main Highlights by the Morning of January 21
World

Events in Ukraine and the World. Main Highlights by the Morning of January 21

Global media and news agencies have provided information about events that occurred in Ukraine and beyond in the last 24 hours, amid the ongoing conflict. Here are the main points. Kyiv residents are sheltering in the metro during missile and drone attacks. Photo Reuters / Alina Smutko. Kirill Dmitriev, special representative of the President of Russia, held talks with Steven Witkoff, special envoy of the President of the United States, and Jared Kushner, son-in-law of the American leader, as

21.01.2026, 08:24
An Innovative Energy Storage Station Launched in Bishkek
Economy

An Innovative Energy Storage Station Launched in Bishkek

In Bishkek, the launch of a unique project aimed at installing a solar photovoltaic system with an energy storage mechanism (BESS) took place. This initiative, implemented with the support of the Ministry of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic, represents one of the first successful examples of integrating renewable energy sources and batteries in the commercial sector of the country.

21.01.2026, 08:16
In Ulaanbaatar, -31 °C was recorded on the morning of January 21.
World

In Ulaanbaatar, -31 °C was recorded on the morning of January 21.

In Ulaanbaatar, predominantly clear weather is expected in the morning hours of January 21, with slight temperature changes. In the western part of the country, the cold will ease slightly. In the northern and other regions, variable cloudiness will be observed, with no snow predicted. In the eastern part of the country, the wind will blow from the northwest, while in other areas it will come from the west, with a speed of 3–8 meters per second.

21.01.2026, 07:49
Economy

More cattle are being imported into Kyrgyzstan

According to recent reports, from January to November 2025, Kyrgyzstan imported 22,800 head of cattle (bovine). This data was provided by the National Statistics Committee. Compared to the same period in 2024, the import of cattle increased by 22.9%.

21.01.2026, 07:47