EU Sanctions Pro-Russian Figures and Groups in Moldova Over Election Interference
The European Union has imposed fresh sanctions on seven individuals and three entities linked to pro-Russian political activities in Moldova, targeting efforts to undermine the country’s sovereignty, democratic institutions, and upcoming elections, The Gaze reports.
Announced today by the Council of the EU, the new sanctions focus on close associates of fugitive oligarch Ilan Shor, who is already under EU restrictions for illegal political financing and inciting violence.
Those newly designated include leaders and members of successor entities to the banned ȘOR party, many of whom are accused of orchestrating vote-buying schemes during Moldova’s 2024 presidential election campaign and the constitutional referendum on EU accession.
“The Council has imposed restrictive measures against seven individuals and three entities responsible for actions aimed at destabilising, undermining or threatening the sovereignty and independence as well as democracy, the rule of law, and stability of the Republic of Moldova,” the EU stated.
Among the sanctioned organizations is A7, a company with close ties to Moscow, allegedly involved in attempts to sway Moldova’s presidential elections and EU membership referendum.
Also listed is the Victory/Pobeda Political Bloc, founded by Ilan Shor, accused of spreading disinformation and engaging in electoral manipulation. The Cultural Educational Centre of Moldova was sanctioned for facilitating foreign interference in the 2024 vote.
With these additions, EU sanctions related to destabilizing activities in Moldova now target 23 individuals and 5 entities. The listed individuals and organizations are subject to asset freezes, travel bans, and a prohibition on receiving funds or economic resources from EU citizens or institutions.
Sanctions against those undermining Moldova’s democratic order were first introduced in April 2023 at the request of the Moldovan government. The move follows a sharp increase in destabilization efforts since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022—efforts the EU says pose a direct threat to the stability of its eastern borders.
Read more on The Gaze: New Sanctions against Russia – How they Reduce its Ability to Wage War