Relations between Moldova and Russia are not only tense because of the Russian war in neighboring Ukraine. Chisinau has now expelled another Russian diplomat.
The Republic of Moldova, which is striving to join the EU and is located between Romania and Ukraine, has expelled a Russian diplomat. The Russian ambassador, Oleg Vasnetsov, who was summoned to the Moldovan Foreign Ministry, was personally informed of the decision, the authority in the capital Chisinau announced. The embassy employee had carried out activities that were incompatible with diplomatic status, it said.
Previously, allegations had been made that a Russian diplomat had recruited an employee of the Moldovan parliament and one of the border guard service. Both Moldovans had been provisionally arrested the day before, according to a statement from the public prosecutor’s office. There was also a search of parliamentary premises. Investigations were underway for high treason and conspiracy against Moldova, it was said. The recruitment attempts had already taken place in 2023. The Russian embassy had rejected the allegations.
Moldova had already expelled 45 Russian diplomats in 2023 on allegations of espionage. Russia is bothered by the western orientation of the Eastern European country under President Maia Sandu. Moldova has been a candidate for EU membership since 2022 and has officially begun accession talks. A referendum on joining the European Union is planned in October, parallel to the presidential election.
Source: Stern
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