Incidents

Two Buses Collide at a Bus Stop in Bishkek

In Bishkek, at the intersection of Mederov and Baytik Baatyr streets, a traffic accident involving two buses occurred. Information about the incident was received by the editorial office of Kaktus.media from eyewitnesses. According to testimonies, the accident happened on January 17 during the daytime near a public transport stop. Bus number 103 was unable to stop in time and crashed into the rear of bus route 226. After the incident, both buses were sent to the bus depot.

18.01.2026, 19:39
The Syrian Army has taken control of a number of territories in the north of the country, displacing Kurdish forces.
World

The Syrian Army has taken control of a number of territories in the north of the country, displacing Kurdish forces.

The Syrian army has captured territories in the north of the country that were previously controlled by Kurdish formations, as reported by The Guardian. According to the state agency Sana, government troops have fully taken control of the city of Al-Tabqa and the nearby dam. It was also reported that the Al-Rashid bridge over the Euphrates River, which had been operational since June 2024, was blown up. Additionally, according to data provided by Reuters, the Syrian military has seized major

18.01.2026, 19:15
Incidents

In Karakol, the investigation into the sexual assault claim against a 22-year-old woman has been resumed.

According to information from the Internal Affairs Department of the Issyk-Kul region, a preliminary investigation has been resumed in Karakol following the appearance of a video address on the internet. This address concerned an incident in which 22-year-old D. A., born in 2003, reported sexual violence by an acquaintance. The woman contacted the city police department on January 30, 2025, where her statement was registered. During the investigation, a forensic medical examination was

18.01.2026, 18:46
Politics

An alternative road may be built to Manas Airport

In Kyrgyzstan, work is underway on a project for an alternative road leading to the international airport "Manas." The press service of the Ministry of Transport and Communications reported that on January 17, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry Bakyt Torobaev familiarized himself with the plans on-site. At the meeting, Minister of Transport and Communications Absattar Syrgabaev, along with other representatives of the

18.01.2026, 18:34
World

Donald Trump is Creating His Version of the UN - "Council of Peace." Entry Costs $1 Billion

According to information provided by the Financial Times, American officials are discussing the possibility of expanding the powers of the "Council of Peace," which was originally created to address the issues in the Gaza Strip, to countries such as Ukraine and Venezuela. This plan is expected to be announced at the World Economic Forum, which starts on January 20 in Davos.

18.01.2026, 18:20
Incidents

In Karakol, the investigation into the sexual assault claim by a 22-year-old girl against an acquaintance has been resumed.

In Karakol, located in the Issyk-Kul region, a check has been reopened regarding a case of sexual violence, as reported by police representatives. According to information, on January 30, 2025, a 22-year-old woman named D.A. approached the city internal affairs department, claiming that she had become a victim of sexual violence by an acquaintance.

18.01.2026, 18:16
Society

Snow, fog, icy conditions. Meteorologists issued a storm warning.

Meteorologists warn of significant changes in weather conditions in Kyrgyzstan from January 18 to 19. Snowfalls are expected, with heavy precipitation in some areas, fog, as well as the accumulation of wet snow on wires and trees. There will be snow drifts and icy conditions on the roads, and snow drifts may occur in mountainous regions, reports the Agency for Hydrometeorology under the Ministry of Emergency Situations. According to the agency's information, the wind will strengthen,

18.01.2026, 18:15
Economy

How has the ruble exchange rate changed since the beginning of 2026? (chart)

Since the beginning of 2026, there has been a moderate increase in the exchange rate of the Russian ruble against the Kyrgyz som. In the first days of January, the ruble was at the level of 1.1016 soms, but by the second decade of the month, it began to gradually strengthen. On January 13, a minimum of 1.0885 soms was recorded. After this date, the exchange rate started to rise, and on January 16-17, it reached the level of 1.1182 soms, which became a new maximum since the beginning of the year.

18.01.2026, 18:13
Bishkek's Weekly Schedule: Performances, Exhibitions, and Film Screenings
Society

Bishkek's Weekly Schedule: Performances, Exhibitions, and Film Screenings

Permanent exhibitions from January 20 to January 23 As part of the program, the museum offers visitors permanent exhibitions covering painting, graphics, sculpture, and decorative applied arts. They can be seen every day except Monday. Kyrgyz National Museum of Fine Arts named after Gapar Aitiev, 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM.

18.01.2026, 18:12
Society

"Wikipedia" Turns 25: Billions of Views Monthly

On January 15, 2001, Jimmy Wales and Larry Sanger founded "Wikipedia," which has transformed over a quarter of a century from a modest resource with 100 articles into a vast online encyclopedia containing over 65 million articles. Each month, this resource attracts nearly 15 billion views. The management of "Wikipedia" today is carried out by the Wikimedia Foundation, established in 2003. In honor of its anniversary, the foundation released a documentary miniseries dedicated

18.01.2026, 18:02
Economy

Kyrgyzstan Increased Bicycle Imports from China by 2.7 Times in the First 10 Months of 2025

- The import of bicycles from China to Kyrgyzstan increased by 2.7 times in the first 10 months of 2025, as reported by the National Statistical Committee. According to the agency's information, from January to October, 169,000 bicycles were imported with a total value of $4.2 million. Compared to the same months in 2024, when 60,000 units worth $1.6 million were imported, the growth in supply volumes has been significant.

18.01.2026, 18:00
Society

The rules for maintaining employment records have changed in Kyrgyzstan

According to the new guidelines, the previous rules for maintaining employment records in Kyrgyzstan are no longer in effect. Government Resolution No. 462 of the KR dated July 24, 2003, is no longer applicable, as confirmed in the Cabinet of Ministers document No. 789 dated December 8, 2025. It has been replaced by the order of the Ministry of Labor, Social Protection, and Migration of the KR No. 345 dated December 24, 2025, which establishes new forms and procedures for maintaining employment

18.01.2026, 17:21
Economy

Recapitalization of state enterprises in Kyrgyzstan is expected to reach 11% of GDP by the end of 2025

- Kyrgyzstan is increasing budgetary stimulation to achieve significant economic goals. This is stated in the report of the EFRS for December 2025. According to forecasts, by the end of 2025, budget expenditures for the recapitalization of state enterprises may amount to 11% of the gross domestic product, which represents an increase of almost eight times over four years.

18.01.2026, 17:02
Politics

The Ministry of Internal Affairs and TSARKA will protect Kyrgyz citizens from financial fraud.

According to information from the press service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Kyrgyzstan, the ministry, together with TSARKA, has initiated a new project aimed at protecting the population from financial fraud schemes. It is reported that the parties have signed a memorandum of cooperation based on international experience that has proven effective in countries such as Japan, Singapore, and the United Kingdom.

18.01.2026, 16:15
Society

Students from Kyrgyzstan won 11 medals at the international olympiad in Kazakhstan

The national team of school students from Kyrgyzstan brought home 11 medals from the XXII International Zhautykov Olympiad in Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science (IZhO-2026), which took place in Almaty from January 10 to 15. This information was provided by the Ministry of Education. The team from Kyrgyzstan won two gold, three silver, and six bronze medals. More than 600 school students from 16 countries participated in the Olympiad, with Kyrgyzstan represented by 33 participants.

18.01.2026, 15:42
Bakyt Torobaev familiarized himself with the project of an alternative road to Manas Airport.
Society

Bakyt Torobaev familiarized himself with the project of an alternative road to Manas Airport.

Deputy Prime Minister of the Kyrgyz Republic and Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry Bakyt Torobaev visited the project related to the construction of a new road to Manas International Airport. According to the Ministry of Transport and Communications, the minister met with Absattar Syrgabaev and other representatives of the ministry, who provided details about the upcoming works, the goals of the project, as well as its technical specifications and implementation

18.01.2026, 15:41
Exclusive

Investments in the manufacturing industry increased by 1.3 times

- According to information provided by the National Statistical Committee, from January to November 2025, the volume of invested capital for the construction of manufacturing industry facilities in Kyrgyzstan increased by 30% compared to the same period in 2024. Official statistical data shows that the primary funding came from enterprises and organizations, foreign direct investments, bank loans, as well as from the population's funds and charitable assistance from residents of

18.01.2026, 15:33
Incidents

The police identified the man found on the frozen Ala-Archa River.

The press service of the Internal Affairs Directorate of the Oktyabrsky District reported the start of a preliminary investigation into the incident that occurred under the bridge on Akhunbaeva Street. On January 18, a man was found on the frozen Ala-Archa River. Bystanders, upon seeing him, helped him out, provided first aid, and then called rescuers and law enforcement. According to him, he was thrown into the river.

18.01.2026, 15:29
Economy

The Ministry of Agriculture invites farmers to the seminar-training "AgroZooVet–2026"

- A series of seminars has started in the southern regions of Kyrgyzstan as part of the educational caravan "AgroZooVet–2026," initiated by the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry. This was reported by the ministry's press service. During these training sessions, participants will be provided with important information on the following topics:

18.01.2026, 15:22
Society

Turkmenistan Recognized as the Most Sober Country in the Post-Soviet Space

According to data presented by the World Population Review, Turkmenistan has been recognized as the most sober country among the CIS countries. This portal has compiled a study that identifies both the most drinking and the most sober nations in the world. The report mentions that in Central Asia, due to Islamic traditions, the population is more restrained in their consumption of alcohol.

18.01.2026, 15:12
Incidents

In Bishkek, a man fell into a frozen river

A report was received by the "102" service stating that a man fell into the frozen Ala-Archa River at the intersection of Maldybaev and Akhunbaev streets in Bishkek. This was reported by the Main Department of Internal Affairs of the capital. The incident has been registered in the records of the Internal Affairs Directorate of the Oktyabrsky District, and a preliminary investigation is currently underway.

18.01.2026, 15:06
In Osh, work is underway to expand the main streets
Society

In Osh, work is underway to expand the main streets

In the city of Osh, work has been intensified to expand the streets of Saint Petersburg and Abduvaliev, during which the area is being cleared of construction debris. According to information from the city hall, currently, 4 excavators and 6 units of Shacman brand equipment are involved in the project.

18.01.2026, 15:02
Society

In the Kemin District, the mountain slopes are being cleared of advertisements.

The cleaning of mountain slopes from advertisements is being carried out at the direction of the authorized representative of the President of Kyrgyzstan in the Chui region, Azamat Osmonov, as reported by the local state administration. The work is being conducted under the guidance of the akim of the Kemin district, K. Shakirov, with the involvement of relevant services. The main objective of these activities is to maintain the ecological condition of the region and preserve the natural

18.01.2026, 14:59
Ibraev checks the operation of energy facilities due to worsening weather conditions
Society

Ibraev checks the operation of energy facilities due to worsening weather conditions

Due to the worsening weather conditions, the Minister of Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic, Talaybek Ibraev, organized a check on the operation of energy facilities. This information was provided by the press service of the ministry. During the inspection, Ibraev visited the service responsible for electricity sales in Bishkek and held a meeting with the employees of the Bishkek branch of JSC "NESK," which is responsible for the electrical networks.

18.01.2026, 14:52
Ecology

Storm Warning: Avalanches and Icy Conditions Expected in the Mountain Regions of Kyrgyzstan on January 18-19

From January 18 to 19, a sharp deterioration in weather conditions is expected in Kyrgyzstan: snowfall is anticipated in some areas, as well as intense precipitation. As a result, there may be wet snow accumulation on wires and trees, reports Kyrgyzhydromet. Fog conditions are also observed. Snow drifts and ice slicks will form on the roads, and snow drifts are possible in mountainous areas. An increase in the western wind is expected, with speeds reaching 15-20 m/s.

18.01.2026, 14:51
"Neftchi" Appoints New Head Coach from Uzbekistan
Society

"Neftchi" Appoints New Head Coach from Uzbekistan

The club "Neftchi" from Kochkor-Ata has announced the appointment of a new head coach for the 2026 season in the Kyrgyz Premier League. The position has been filled by 51-year-old Uzbek specialist Dmitry An.

18.01.2026, 14:47
Ecology

Snow in some areas, no precipitation in the rest of the territory — weather forecast for January 19

Weather forecast for January 19 in Kyrgyzstan. On the night of January 19, snow is expected in the Issyk-Kul region, while no precipitation is anticipated in the rest of the country. During the day, snow may fall in some areas of the Osh, Jalal-Abad, Batken, and Naryn regions, while the remaining regions will also remain dry. Fog is possible in some places. Snow drifts and ice will be observed on the roads. The wind will be from the west at a speed of 4-9 m/s, but in the west of Lake Issyk-Kul,

18.01.2026, 14:43
Zheenbek Kulubaev commented on Western sanctions and the U.S. visa policy
Society

Zheenbek Kulubaev commented on Western sanctions and the U.S. visa policy

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes the importance of dialogue and protecting the interests of citizens Zheenbek Kulubaev, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, commented on the sanctions imposed by Western countries and changes in the visa policy of the United States. He noted that Kyrgyzstan continues to cooperate with key trading partners in accordance with national legislation. In this regard, the minister proposed conducting an independent audit to verify compliance with the sanctions

18.01.2026, 14:43
Incidents

In Bishkek, the State Committee for National Security detained two leaders of the Pervomaisky District Interior Department

According to information received by the editorial staff of Kaktus.media, two high-ranking officials from the Pervomaisky District Department of Internal Affairs were detained in Bishkek. The suspects are the head of the criminal investigation department, A. I., and his deputy for investigations, A. N. At this time, the reason for their detention and the specific circumstances of the criminal case have not been disclosed. It is known that on January 17, they were summoned for questioning by the

18.01.2026, 14:42
Exclusive

Investments in the agricultural sector increased by 13.9%, while in mineral extraction they decreased by 1.6 times.

- According to data from the National Statistical Committee, from January to November 2025, the volume of investments directed towards the construction of facilities in the agricultural sector increased by 13.9% in Kyrgyzstan. Official statistics show that the main sources of funding in this sector were the republican budget, foreign grants and humanitarian aid, as well as loans from abroad, funds from the population, and charitable contributions from residents of the country. These sources

18.01.2026, 14:41
World

Macron Appeared in Public Wearing Glasses Due to Eye Problems

Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, announced at a meeting in the Élysée Palace that he will have to wear sunglasses for some time due to "minor issues." This was reported by Le Parisien. The President noted: "I apologize for wearing these glasses; it is related to a small problem. I will be wearing them for a while, so I ask for your understanding."

18.01.2026, 14:21
In Indonesia, a missing airplane was found at the top of a mountain
World

In Indonesia, a missing airplane was found at the top of a mountain

The loss of contact with the airplane occurred on January 17 in the Maros district, where there were 11 people on board, including eight crew members. On Sunday morning, during the search operations, the first signs of the aircraft's location were detected: a patrol plane spotted white debris in hilly terrain near Mount Bulusaraung at 07:17 (02:17 Moscow time). Subsequently, rescuers found large parts of the airplane on the northern slope of the mountain, as well as the fuselage, which

18.01.2026, 14:13
Society

An earthquake with a magnitude of 3 occurred in the Batken region.

According to information provided by the Institute of Seismology of the National Academy of Sciences of Kyrgyzstan, an earthquake with a magnitude of 3 occurred in the Batken region. This event was recorded on the evening of January 17. According to the agency's report, the tremors were registered at 19:11. The epicenter was located 5 km southwest of the village of Sovetskoe, 9 km southeast of the village of Sary-Otek, 18 km southeast of the village of Kyzyl-Korgon, and 42 km northeast of

18.01.2026, 14:07
A training seminar was held in Leilek as part of the "AgroZooVet-2026" caravan.
Society

A training seminar was held in Leilek as part of the "AgroZooVet-2026" caravan.

On January 17, a training seminar was held in Leilek, based at the district state administration, as part of the caravan "AgroZooVet–2026". This event was organized by the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic. The main objective of the seminar was to enhance the knowledge level among farmers and specialists in the agricultural sector, disseminate modern agricultural technologies, and discuss current issues in agricultural

18.01.2026, 14:04
Economy

Annexation of Greenland. Trump imposes tariffs on eight European countries starting February 1.

Starting from February 1, 2025, as Donald Trump announced on his social network Truth Social, the United States will impose additional tariffs on goods from eight European countries, including the United Kingdom and Denmark, in response to disputes over Greenland. The President emphasized that these tariffs will remain in effect until a complete agreement on the acquisition of Greenland by the United States is reached.

18.01.2026, 13:36