The Council of the European Union imposed restrictive measures against six individuals and one entity responsible for actions aimed at destabilizing, undermining or threatening the sovereignty and independence of the Republic of Moldova. All those listed are subject to an asset freeze. The EU citizens and companies are forbidden from making funds available to them. Additionally, the six individuals are subject to a travel ban, which prohibits them from entering and transiting through EU territories, IPN reports.
“Moldova is one of the countries most affected by the fallout of Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine. There are serious, increased and continued attempts to destabilize the country. Today’s listings send another important political signal of the EU’s unwavering support to Moldova, its stability, independence and sovereignty. The EU remains determined to continue to crack down on those who destabilize our direct neighborhood,” said the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell.
The Council is sanctioning the paramilitary organization: the Association of People with Epaulettes “Scutul Poporului”, which has made repeated attempts to undermine Moldova’s democratic government including through inciting riots and violent demonstrations, as well as its leader.
The other sanctioned individuals include the Deputy Head of the Russian Federal Security Service Department of Operational Intelligence responsible for Russia’s covert operations in the Republic of Moldova, notably in the Transnistrian region, since 2016. Furthermore, the Council is sanctioning executives of media trusts owning several media channels in the country, that frequently promote messages aimed at obstructing and undermining the democratic political process. The list also includes other individuals engaged in the dissemination of disinformation and inciting violence and fear, or linked to the “Bank Fraud” case.
“The efforts to destabilize Moldova have significantly increased since the start of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, and represent a direct threat to the stability and security of the external borders of the EU. The EU remains unwavering in its support to Moldova, its resilience, security, stability, economy and energy supply in the face of destabilizing activities instigated by external actors,” says a press release of the EU Delegation to Moldova.
In this connection, President Maia Sandu said that the restrictive measures imposed by the Council of the EU against those who undermine the Republic of Moldova’s democracy send a strong message – “together we are strong in ensuring a safe future.”
Prime Minister Dorin Recean noted that the decision to sanction six individuals and one entity that undermine the Republic of Moldova’s democracy and stability is a clear sign that the Republic of Moldova enjoys the EU’s unwavering support in the fight against Russia’s hybrid war and attempts to undermine the rule of law and security in Moldova.
