Moldova’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expelled a Russian diplomat following the detention of two Moldovan officials on suspicion of treason against the European Union candidate country. The officials were accused of providing information against Moldova’s interests and plotting against the country for personal gain.
The suspects, working in Parliament and the border police, were allegedly collaborating with a foreign embassy in Chisinau. The ministry summoned Russia’s ambassador to declare an embassy employee persona non grata due to incompatible diplomatic activities.
This incident adds to the strained relations between Russia and Moldova, with previous expulsions and accusations of Russian interference in Moldova’s internal affairs. Moldova remains on a path towards full EU membership despite Russian opposition.
With a referendum on EU membership and a presidential election approaching, Moldova’s stance against Russian influence remains strong.