The Kremlin regime, which persecutes the opposition and eliminates inconvenient politicians, is in no position to give lessons on democracy. This statement was made by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mihai Popsoi in response to criticism from Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov regarding the detention of Gagauzia's governor, Evghenia Gutul, IPN reports.

According to Mihai Popsoi, the Russian leadership has now openly started defending criminal groups in the Republic of Moldova.

“The detention of Shor criminal network member Evghenia Gutul falls under the jurisdiction of prosecutors, and Moldovan institutions will handle the case accordingly”, Mihai Popsoi told the press.

Evghenia Gutul was detained on Tuesday evening at Chisinau Airport while attempting to board a flight to Istanbul, Turkey. According to the General Prosecutor’s Office, she was listed in the information system under a watch status, prompting border police to notify the relevant authorities. Law enforcement is also investigating her intent to leave Moldova without returning.

In response, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Moldovan law enforcement agencies were violating the principles of political pluralism and democracy. He further claimed that Chisinau authorities were using covert pressure tactics against their political rivals.