The European Council has imposed today restrictive measures against six individuals, including fugitive politician Ilan Shore (pictured), known as “Moscow’s Man in Moldova“, and one entity responsible for actions aimed at destabilising, undermining or threatening the sovereignty and independence of the Republic of Moldova.
“Moldova is one of the countries most affected by the fallout of Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine. There are serious, increased and continued attempts to destabilise the country. Today’s listings send another important political signal of the EU’s unwavering support to Moldova, its stability, independence and sovereignty. The EU remains determined to continue to crack down on those who destabilise our direct neighbourhood.”
Josep Borrell, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
The Council is sanctioning the paramilitary organisation: the Association of People with Epaulettes “Scutul Poporului“, which has made repeated attempts to undermine Moldova’s democratic government including through inciting riots and violent demonstrations, as well as its leader.
The other sanctioned individuals include the Deputy Head of the Russian Federal Security Service Department of Operational Intelligence responsible for Russia’s covert operations in the Republic of Moldova notably in the Transnistrian region since 2016. Furthermore, the Council is sanctioning executives of media trusts owning several media channels in the country, that frequently promote messages aimed at obstructing and undermining the democratic political process. The list also includes other individuals engaged in the dissemination of disinformation and inciting violence and fear, or linked to the “Bank Fraud” case.
All those listed today are subject to an asset freeze. The EU citizens and companies are forbidden from making funds available to them. Additionally, the six individuals are subject to a travel ban, which prohibits them from entering and transiting through EU territories.
The efforts to destabilise Moldova have significantly increased since the start of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, and represent a direct threat to the stability and security of the external borders of the EU. The EU remains unwavering in its support to Moldova, its resilience, security, stability, economy and energy supply in the face of destabilising activities instigated by external actors.
Background
On 28 April 2023, the EU established, at the request of Moldova a framework for targeted restrictive measures against persons responsible for supporting or implementing actions which undermine or threaten the sovereignty and independence of the Republic of Moldova, as well as the country’s democracy, the rule of law, stability or security. On 30 May 2023 , the Council adopted the first set of 5 listings under the new framework.
On 14 December 2023 the European Council agreed to open accession negotiations with Moldova, having granted the status of candidate country on 23 June 2022.