Russia and Moldova expel diplomats in reciprocal move amid diplomatic dispute
Reuters
Diplomatic relations between Russia and Moldova have come under renewed focus following recent developments involving the two countries' embassies. The situation reflects ongoing complexities in bilateral engagement and the importance both sides place on diplomatic protocol and international norms.
Russia has expelled three Moldovan diplomats in a reciprocal measure after Moldova removed three Russian diplomats from the country earlier this week. The initial expulsions by Chisinau followed allegations that Russia’s embassy in Moldova assisted the escape of Alexander Nesterovschii, a pro-Russian lawmaker who was recently sentenced in absentia to 12 years in prison for illegal political financing.
Moldovan authorities released surveillance footage they claim shows Nesterovschii entering the Russian embassy in Chisinau shortly before his disappearance. They accuse Moscow of facilitating his escape to prevent his imprisonment. In response, the Russian Foreign Ministry summoned Moldova’s ambassador, Lilian Darii, to protest what it described as an unfounded and politically motivated decision. It denied any wrongdoing and declared three Moldovan diplomats persona non grata.
Russia maintains that its diplomatic mission in Moldova operates in full compliance with international norms and rejects any accusations of interference in Moldova’s internal affairs. Moldova, meanwhile, has repeatedly expressed concerns over what it sees as ongoing Russian influence in its domestic politics.
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