Moldova has expelled three Russian diplomats, accusing the Russian Embassy of aiding a pro-Kremlin lawmaker’s escape from imprisonment. The decision, announced by Moldova’s Foreign Ministry on Monday, was based on “clear evidence” of activities violating diplomatic norms.
Russia swiftly condemned the move, with its Foreign Ministry vowing an “appropriate response,” according to state-run news agency RIA Novosti.
The dispute centers on Alexander Nesterovschii, a pro-Russian Moldovan lawmaker who was sentenced to 12 years in prison on March 19 for illegally channeling funds to a pro-Russian party linked to fugitive businessman Ilan Shor. A day before his sentencing, security footage allegedly showed Nesterovschii entering the Russian Embassy in Chisinau. On the day of the verdict, he was reportedly driven in a diplomatic-plated vehicle to the Russian-backed breakaway region of Transnistria, evading imprisonment.
Moscow has denied involvement, with the Russian Embassy calling the allegations “unfounded and unacceptable” while urging Moldova to avoid “provocative speculation.” Among the expelled diplomats is a co-chair of the Joint Control Commission, the peacekeeping body overseeing Transnistria since the early 1990s.
Moldova’s pro-European government has repeatedly accused Russia of political interference, allegations that Moscow rejects. With Moldova’s parliamentary elections set for this autumn, the diplomatic rift underscores the country’s ongoing struggle between European integration and Russian influence.
Meanwhile, European leaders, including the foreign ministers of Spain, Germany, France, Italy, Britain, and Poland, along with top EU officials, have signaled readiness to impose further sanctions on Russia over its war in Ukraine.
Get more News Headlines On Our Social Platforms And Do Follow.
About The Author
