Transition to Computer-Based Testing for Russian Language Exams for Migrants As of January 1, 2026, the Russian Ministry of Education announced that exams for migrants in Russian as a foreign language, Russian history, and legislative basics will exclusively shift to computer-based testing using distance technologies. This move aims to improve exam transparency, reduce human error in assessment, update tasks monthly, and discontinue the practice of publicly disclosing answers. Currently, these exams are available at 203 locations across Russia and beyond, with oversight managed by Rosobrnadzor. The transition to computer-based exams signifies a significant step towards modernizing the testing process and ensuring a more efficient and secure assessment method for migrants seeking to demonstrate their proficiency in the Russian language and related subjects.

Man Attempts to Forcefully Take Woman and Children in Chui Region In the village of Novopokrovka in the Chui region, a disturbing incident unfolded yesterday around noon. Witnesses reported that a woman with two young children, visibly terrified, sought help as an aggressive man attempted to force them into a car. The witnesses promptly alerted the police about the situation, but due to the perceived high risk, they had to leave the scene. It was later revealed that law enforcement authorities only reached out to the witnesses about half an hour after the initial report. The woman involved disclosed that the man was her legal husband and detailed a history of enduring domestic abuse, including threats, hostility, and aggression directed at her and the children.

Uzbekistan Plans First Space Launch and Debut Cosmonaut For the first time in its history, Uzbekistan is preparing to launch an artificial satellite and send its inaugural Uzbek cosmonaut into space. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev revealed these ambitious plans during his annual address to the parliament and the nation, highlighting the significant positive impact this project will have on the country's technological advancement and national development.

Alexander Bublik Reveals Preference for Watching Tennis Matches Kazakhstan's tennis player Alexander Bublik, currently ranked 11th in the ATP world rankings, shared his viewing habits, highlighting his choice of high-quality matches for leisure time entertainment. He specifically enjoys watching Grand Slam finals and games involving his tour companions like Karen Khachanov, Ben Shilton, Daniil Medvedev, and Frances Tiafoe. Bublik candidly explained his disinterest in women's tennis, stating that he does not follow it because he finds the matches "uninteresting" and "incomprehensible." In 2025, Bublik achieved significant success by clinching four ATP titles and reaching a personal best ranking of 11th in the world.

Karakol Embraces Cossack Culture Karakol, nestled in the Issyk-Kul region, has become a cherished home for many residents. The Cossacks play a vibrant role in the cultural tapestry of the area, enriching Kyrgyzstan's unique diversity and heritage. Caravan-Info had the chance to interview Alexander Shchelgachev, the ataman of the Karakolskaya Cossack Society of Warriors of Russia and Abroad. He runs the guest house "Argo" in Karakol, where he has been preserving Cossack traditions for years and sharing them with visitors. The ataman's dedication to promoting Cossack culture has been instrumental in passing down age-old traditions to future generations and educating tourists about the rich heritage of the region. Through initiatives like the Karakolskaya Cossack Society of Warriors of Russia and Abroad, Alexander Shchelgachev plays a crucial role in making Karakol a true gem of Kyrgyzstan, captivating visitors with its cultural charm.

President Japarov Expresses Disappointment in Delegates President Sadyr Japarov expressed disappointment on his official social media page, revealing that 71 delegates of the IV People's Council had misled him. During the second day of the council on December 26, the President responded to delegates' questions, including one about elections and voter participation. Addressing the issue of low voter turnout for electing deputies to the Jogorku Kenesh, President Japarov asked the delegates who had participated in the recent elections to raise their hands. Despite his prior warning of video recording, all delegates raised their hands. However, it was later confirmed by the Central Election Commission that 71 delegates had not actually cast their votes, leading to the President expressing surprise and sadness over their dishonesty without singling out individuals by name.

Swan Home: Mangilik and Mahabbat Couples Settle in a New Place Swans Mangilik and Mahabbat, rescued by Bayanayul District resident Bauyrzhan Zhakupov, have successfully settled in a new location. According to ornithologists, the birds were relocated to the Pavlodar Active Recreation Center, which serves as a winter shelter for birds that have not migrated south in time. The pair has adapted well, feeling calm and patiently awaiting the winter under the care of specialists, as noted by Igor Bayramov, Head of the Active Recreation Center. In the spring, the swans are expected to be released back into the wild, following the successful reintroduction of previous birds to their natural habitat.

Driver of Lexus Held Accountable for Parking Violation on Pedestrian Crossing in Bishkek A driver in Bishkek was recently confronted for a severe traffic offense involving their Lexus vehicle, license plate 01KG014AOJ, parked in an unauthorized area. The driver was issued a protocol for parking directly on a pedestrian crossing, a clear breach of traffic regulations that endangered pedestrians' safe passage. The incident was captured on video, providing undeniable evidence of the violation. Following due process, the driver was appropriately held accountable as per the legal requirements. Law enforcement officials stress the critical importance of adhering to parking regulations to ensure the safety of all individuals using the roads.

Almaty Master Plan Adjustment Envisions Agglomeration Development and Rail Connection with Satellite Cities The Almaty Master Plan is being adjusted to include measures for agglomeration development and establishing daily rail connections with satellite cities like Alatau and Talgar. The city administration aims to alleviate the burden on the metropolis through these initiatives. Asqat Saduov, the Director General of the Almaty City Planning Institute, mentioned that plans are underway to introduce daily rail connections, utilizing electric trains to help redistribute transport flows and ease the strain on urban infrastructure. This strategic move is part of a broader effort to decongest the city by implementing a polycentric model and creating a sustainable transport network in collaboration with the Almaty Region.

Kazakhstan and European Union to Continue Talks on Visa Regime Simplification Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, Alibek Bakaev, and the Ambassador of the European Union, Aleshka Simkich, have engaged in discussions regarding the progress of negotiations on a simplified visa regime and readmission agreement. The upcoming round of negotiations is set for February 2026 in Nur-Sultan, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan. The initiation of negotiations in Brussels on December 2 marked a significant step in fostering mutual trust and the commitment to facilitating easier travel between Kazakhstan and EU nations. This negotiation process, the first of its kind between the European Union and a Central Asian state, holds historical importance as it aims to enhance mobility and cooperation between the regions.