The EU renewed targeted measures against individuals and groups blamed for destabilising Moldova, promising continued pressure while monitoring regional security.
The European Union has extended sanctions for a year against individuals and organizations deemed responsible for actions aimed at destabilizing, undermining, or threatening Moldova’s sovereignty and independence.
According to official data on the Council of the European Union’s website, a decision was made to extend the restrictive measures. There are currently 23 individuals and 5 organizations under sanctions.
Council of the EU decision to extend sanctions
“Today the EU Council decided to extend sanctions against persons responsible for actions aimed at destabilizing, undermining or threatening the sovereignty and independence of the Republic of Moldova until 29 April 2027. The EU’s restrictive measures are currently applied to 23 individuals and 5 organizations.”
– in a statement
The EU sanctions list includes Ilan Shor, a pro-Russian fugitive oligarch; former leader of the Moldovan Democratic Party and fugitive oligarch Vladimir Plahotniuc; the Bashkan of Gagauzia and others.
All those under sanctions are banned from entering the European Union, and their assets in EU countries remain frozen.
It is emphasized that sanctions were first introduced in April 2023 following Moldova’s request. The mechanism allows imposing restrictions on those who undermine the sovereignty, democracy and security of the country.
“In their actions there are signs of criminal offences defined in Art. 345 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code ‘Threats or violence against a law enforcement officer’ and Art. 194 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code ‘Deliberate destruction or damage to property’. The relevant notices have been sent to the National Police”
– in a statement
The EU continues to apply this sanctions mechanism to respond to threats to sovereignty, democracy, and security in the region, underscoring the importance of upholding the values of the rule of law and stability in the border areas near the EU.