Moldovan Foreign Affairs Ministry advises avoiding non-essential travel to Russia amid heightened security risks

The Foreign Affairs Ministry (MAE) recommends that citizens of Moldova avoid non-essential travel to the Russian Federation. The warning comes in the context of persistent heightened security risks and an increasing number of incidents affecting foreign citizens, including Moldovan nationals.

According to the MAE, citizens of Moldova may continue to be subjected to rigorous checks at the border crossing points of Russia and Belarus.

"They may include extensive checks and questioning, temporary retention of travel documents, inspection of mobile phones and other electronic devices, collection of biometric data, as well as denial of entry into the territory of the Russian Federation without sufficient explanation," the institution says.

The ministry also draws attention to the risk of detention, arrest or arbitrary imprisonment based on accusations formulated or interpreted extensively by the Russian authorities.

"In such cases, access to consular assistance may be delayed or restricted and the ability of Moldova’s authorities to intervene is limited," the institution stresses.

The MAE also warns of the risk that persons in administrative detention or in other vulnerable situations may be pressured to sign contracts for enlistment in the armed forces of the Russian Federation.

"The risk is increased in the case of people who also hold Russian Federation citizenship or who are regarded as Russian citizens in accordance with local legislation," the authorities warn.

In the context, the MAE recommends that citizens avoid non-essential travel to the Russian Federation and carefully assess the need to transit the territory of the Russian Federation and Belarus. At the same time, citizens are urged to exercise increased caution in their dealings with border authorities and other local authorities. It is important that individuals do not sign documents whose content and legal consequences they do not fully understand.

In the event of detention, arrest or any other situation that may affect their freedom or safety, individuals should immediately contact the Embassy of Moldova. The Moldovan MAE is monitoring the situation and will update travel recommendations according to developments on the ground.