Russia Condemns Moldova’s Move to Shut Russian Cultural Center in Chișinău

Overview

• Moldova’s new government approved denouncing the bilateral accord governing cultural centers on November 5, signaling the closure of the Russian Centre for Science and Culture in the capital.
• Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova called the decision illogical and politically driven, rejecting Moldovan claims that the center spreads harmful narratives or poses security risks.
• Officials in Chișinău have cited concerns about Russian influence and referenced drone incidents on Moldovan territory in justifying the step.
• According to reporting on the treaty’s terms, the agreement took effect on July 4, 2021, and a withdrawal would only be possible after July 4, 2026 because of automatic renewal rules.
• Russian community leaders in Moldova criticized the government’s move, warned of potential broader treaty fallout, and vowed the Russian House would continue operating, underscoring deepening domestic divisions.