Moldova Expels Russian Diplomats Over Alleged Role in Lawmaker’s Escape

Moldova accuses Russia of aiding a pro-Kremlin lawmaker's flight to Transnistria, escalating tensions as the country targets pro-Russian figures ahead of elections.

Moldova expelled three Russian diplomats, citing evidence of their involvement in helping pro-Kremlin lawmaker Alexander Nesterovschii evade a 12-year prison sentence.
Surveillance footage reportedly shows Nesterovschii entering the Russian Embassy in Chisinau before being transported to Transnistria in a vehicle with diplomatic plates.
Russia denies the allegations, calling them baseless, and has pledged unspecified retaliatory measures in response to the expulsions.
Moldova continues its crackdown on pro-Russian political figures, detaining Gagauzia Governor Eugenia Gutul on charges of illegal political funding as she attempted to leave the country.
These developments come as Moldova prepares for parliamentary elections later this year and advances its bid to join the EU by 2030, against the backdrop of heightened tensions with Russia.