EU sanctions for individuals, companies of Moldova // Spokesman for government says Moldovan leadership acts alongside Brussels to defend elections, democratic institutions

The Moldovan leadership is acting alongside Brussels, in order to defend the elections and democratic institutions in Moldova. The spokesperson for the government, Daniel Voda, has conveyed a message to this effect, after the European Union Council on 15 July informed that it had imposed sanctions against seven people and three entities involved in attempts to undermine the sovereignty, rule of law and stability of Moldova.

‘’Those who betray Moldova are sanctioned at the European level,’’ said Daniel Voda at a news conference held after today's government meeting.

The cabinet's spokesperson highlighted that those targeted by the sanctions ‘’are close associates of the criminal fugitive Shor, as well as members of the structures that continue the activity of the banned party, involved in vote buying, corrupting politicians, attempts to rig presidential elections and the constitutional referendum.’’

Specifically, the sanctions also target a company with connections to Moscow, the Victory Bloc – created by Ilan Shor, and an educational cultural center, described as ‘’an instrument of electoral interference.’’

In all, 23 individuals and five entities are now sanctioned by the EU for destabilizing actions in Moldova, announced Daniel Voda.

‘’This is a clear signal: both Chisinau and Brussels say that those who betray Moldova will be sanctioned at the European level and will not be able to enjoy the freedom of travel, do business and benefit from the prosperity of a common space when they act against European principles and values,’’ said Daniel Voda.

The European Union Council on 15 July approved a new sanctions package targeting four companies and seven Moldovan politicians, accused of involvement in attempts to destabilize Moldova.

The sanctions include freezing assets in the European Union, travel bans in the EU, and a prohibition on providing funds or economic resources to the targeted individuals and organizations.