The Council of the European Union adopted restrictive measures on Monday against five individuals and one entity responsible for destabilizing the Republic of Moldova, according to a statement from the Council..
‘Moldova is facing massive direct attempts from Russia to destabilize the country, along with challenges arising from the war of aggression waged by Russia against Ukraine.This poses a direct threat to a sovereign country, to its democratic life, and to its path toward the European Union.The EU will continue to provide full support for the legitimate aspirations of the Moldovan people,’ stated EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell, according to Agerpres.
Among those sanctioned is Evghenia Guțul, the head of the autonomous territorial unit of Gagauzia, who is responsible for promoting separatism in that region, thereby attempting to overturn the constitutional order and threatening the sovereignty and independence of the Republic of Moldova.
The sanctions list also includes Mihail Vlah, the deputy head of Guțul and press relations advisor; Iurii Cuznețov, deputy head of the Department for Foreign Affairs of the Gagauzia region; and Ilia Uzun, vice-chairman of the executive committee and member of the Gagauz National Assembly.
Additionally, Evrazia, a non-governmental organization based in Russia aimed at promoting Moscow’s interests abroad, and its director and founder, Nelli Parutenco, are also subject to sanctions.
Those targeted by the sanctions will face a freeze on their assets within the EU and a ban on receiving funds or economic resources, either directly or indirectly.
The total number of individuals and entities subject to restrictive measures has now reached 18 (16 individuals and 2 entities).
