Paula Seling was criticized for using the Russian expression "Maladieț, Moldova" at Eurovision Moldova 2026. The artist apologized, stating that she did not know that the term is in Russian.

Paula Seling, a member of the international jury at the national final of Eurovision Moldova 2026, sparked controversy after she congratulated the audience with the Russian expression "Maladieț, Moldova", which means "Bravo, Moldova". Negative comments quickly appeared on social media, including from the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Chișinău, Daniel Vodă, who emphasized that the official language of the Republic of Moldova is Romanian.

In response to the criticism, Paula Seling posted a clip in which she apologized, explaining that she did not know that the term is in the Russian language and that she did not intend to offend anyone. The artist mentioned that she used the word out of a desire to be "cute and nice", but later realized the negative impact of her choice. Seling expressed regret for the confusion and congratulated the team and competitors of the event, reaffirming that she did not want to offend anyone.