Thousands Rally in Skopje Demanding Release of Former KLA Leaders
Thousands of Albanians from Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia gathered in Skopje's Skanderbeg Square on December 13, 2025, to protest the ongoing trials of former Kosovo Liberation Army leaders at the Kosovo Specialist Chambers in The Hague. Organizers, primarily the OVL-UCK, called for justice and the release of figures like Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Jakup Krasniqi, and Rexhep Selimi, who face charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Dalekovod-Led Consortium Secures €19.7 Million North Macedonia Transmission Line Contract
A consortium led by Croatia's Dalekovod has signed a €19.7 million contract with North Macedonia's MEPSO for a 400 kV transmission line connecting Bitola 2 to the Albanian border, aiming for regional power stability by mid-2028.
Serbian Singer Aca Lukas Detained in North Macedonia Over Permit Issues
Serbian singer Aca Lukas was detained in Kavadarci, North Macedonia, on November 22, 2025, for performing without a required permit. He was fined 50 euros, while the venue faced multiple violations. Lukas claims the action was politically motivated.
Report Highlights North Macedonia's Vulnerability to Foreign Information Manipulation Amidst 'Clientelist Dynamic'
A new report, 'Enablers and Incentives of Election-Related Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference in North Macedonia,' reveals how a 'clientelist dynamic' between the state and media, coupled with systemic vulnerabilities, creates fertile ground for foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI). The study, launched by International IDEA and Metamorphosis Foundation, emphasizes the urgent need for reforms to safeguard democratic processes.
Thousands Protest in Skopje Demanding Justice for Deadly Nightclub Fire Victims Ahead of Landmark Trial
Thousands gathered in Skopje, North Macedonia, on Saturday, November 15, 2025, to demand justice for the 63 victims of the Pulse nightclub fire in Kocani. The protest precedes a major trial involving 34 individuals and three companies accused of 'serious crimes against public security' following the March 16, 2025, tragedy.
Langston Wilson Earns Hoops Agents Player of the Week for North Macedonian Prva Liga Round 3
American power forward Langston Wilson of KK Pelister Sport Bitola has been named Hoops Agents Player of the Week for Round 3 of the North Macedonian Prva Liga. Wilson delivered a dominant performance, recording a double-double with 17 points and 14 rebounds, leading his team to a 101-90 victory over Madzari.
North Macedonia Holds Local Elections Amidst EU Membership Stalemate
Voters in North Macedonia are casting ballots today, October 19, 2025, in local elections to elect mayors and municipal council members across 80 municipalities and the City of Skopje. The elections are widely seen as a crucial test for the ruling government, led by Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, against the backdrop of a prolonged stalemate in the country's European Union accession process.
North Macedonia Sees 3.3% Increase in Green Energy Output for September
North Macedonia's power producers generated 20,572 MWh of electricity from renewable sources in September 2025, marking a 3.3% year-on-year increase. This growth highlights the country's ongoing commitment to expanding its green energy sector and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
North Macedonia Holds Belgium to Goalless Draw in World Cup Qualifier, Retains Group J Lead
North Macedonia's national football team secured a 0-0 draw against Belgium in a UEFA World Cup qualifier on October 10, 2025, at Planet Group Arena. The result allowed North Macedonia to maintain its one-point lead over Belgium in Group J, following a resilient defensive performance.
North Macedonia Local Elections Campaign Intensifies Ahead of October 19 Vote
North Macedonia's local elections campaign is in full swing, with the first round of voting scheduled for October 19, 2025. Political parties and independent candidates are vying for 81 mayoral positions and municipal council seats across 80 municipalities and the City of Skopje, addressing a range of national and local concerns.
North Macedonia Receives Applications for 4.2 GW of Battery Projects and 7.1 GW in Renewable and Gas Power
North Macedonia has seen a surge in energy investment interest, with applications totaling 4.2 GW for battery projects and 7.1 GW for wind, solar, and gas power plants. This signals a significant push towards diversifying the nation's energy mix and enhancing grid stability.
BDI Candidate Zekirija Shaini Shot in Ambush in North Macedonia
Zekirija Shaini, a 43-year-old candidate for the Democratic Union for Integration (BDI) in North Macedonia, was shot in an ambush in Kumanovo. Shaini, who is the top candidate for the BDI council list in Likovo, sustained three gunshot wounds to the legs and is in stable condition. Police have launched an investigation, and the BDI party has condemned the 'barbaric act' and called for swift justice.
Skopje Joins Widespread European Protests in Support of Palestinians
Skopje, North Macedonia, hosted a smaller pro-Palestinian rally on October 5, 2025, as part of a broader wave of demonstrations across Europe. These protests marked the second anniversary of the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel and called for an end to the conflict in Gaza.
Bulgaria Finalizes Agreement Steps for Cross-Border Railway Tunnel with North Macedonia on Pan-European Corridor VIII
The Bulgarian Cabinet has finalized the necessary steps for an agreement with North Macedonia regarding the preparation, construction, and operation of a vital railway tunnel on Pan-European Corridor VIII. This move is a significant stride towards enhancing regional connectivity and completing a strategic East-West transport route, with the formal signing anticipated on November 4, 2025.
SDSM Introduces 'Red Lines' Resolution for North Macedonia's EU Integration Amidst Local Election Campaign
North Macedonia's opposition Social Democratic Union of Macedonia (SDSM) has introduced a resolution outlining 'red lines' for the country's EU integration, including the French proposal, during the local election campaign. The resolution aims to protect Macedonian identity while accepting constitutional amendments under specific conditions.
North Macedonia Commences Campaign for October 19 Local Elections
North Macedonia has officially launched its 20-day campaign for the local elections scheduled for October 19, with a runoff on November 2. Over 10,000 candidates from 22 parties, 19 coalitions, and 119 independent groups are vying for mayoral and municipal council seats across 80 municipalities and the City of Skopje.
Bulgaria Provides 1.5 Million Leva in Aid to North Macedonia Following Devastating Kocani Nightclub Fire
Bulgaria has formally approved humanitarian assistance totaling 1.49 million leva (approximately 766,940 euros) for North Macedonia, six months after a tragic nightclub fire in Kocani claimed 62 lives and injured over 200. The aid covers medical evacuations, hospital treatment for 15 patients, and accommodation for victims' families.
North Macedonia President Addresses UN General Assembly, Urges Reforms and Unconditional EU Integration
President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova addressed the 80th UN General Assembly, emphasizing the UN's crucial role amid 'geopolitical earthquakes.' She called for urgent UN reforms and advocated for North Macedonia's European integration without additional conditions, warning against a geopolitical vacuum in the Western Balkans.
Dubai Chambers Strengthens Trade and Investment Ties with North Macedonia
Dubai Chambers recently met with North Macedonia's Prime Minister, Professor Dr. Hristijan Mickoski, in Skopje to explore bilateral trade and investment opportunities. The high-level discussions, part of the 'Growth Corridors' initiative, aimed to boost economic cooperation across key sectors, building on AED 1.8 billion in non-oil trade from 2020-2024.
Nisavić Sisters Claim Double Gold at Skopje Senior European Judo Cup
Serbian judokas Jelena and Nikolina Nisavić secured gold medals at the Skopje Senior European Judo Cup in North Macedonia, held on September 20-21, 2025. Jelena triumphed in the -63kg category, while Nikolina won the -52kg division, contributing to Serbia's strong performance at the event.
