Moldova Reserves Right to Expel More Russian Diplomats, Foreign Minister Declares Moldova’s Foreign Minister, Nicu Popescu, has asserted that Moldova retains the authority to expel additional Russian diplomats from the country. This comes amid ongoing tensions between the two nations, which have escalated in recent weeks. Popescu’s statement was made during a press conference in the Moldovan capital of Chisinau. He explained that Moldova’s decision to expel three Russian diplomats in February 2023 was prompted by their alleged involvement in “activities incompatible with diplomatic status.” “We reserve the right to expel more Russian diplomats if necessary,” Popescu stated. “The security and stability of our country remain our top priority.” The Moldovan government has accused Russia of engaging in actions that undermine Moldova’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. These include the presence of Russian forces in the breakaway region of Transnistria, which has been under de facto Russian control since 1992. Russia has denied these accusations, claiming that its troops in Transnistria are there to maintain peace and stability in the region. However, Moldova views them as an illegal occupation. The expulsion of Russian diplomats is the latest in a series of diplomatic measures taken by Moldova in response to Russia’s actions. In April 2022, Moldova expelled five Russian diplomats after accusing them of spying. The ongoing tensions between Moldova and Russia are a reflection of the wider geopolitical tensions between Russia and the West. Moldova has expressed its support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, which has further strained its relations with Moscow. The situation in Moldova remains volatile, and it is unclear whether further diplomatic expulsions or other measures will be taken. However, Popescu’s statement suggests that Moldova is prepared to take whatever steps it deems necessary to protect its security and sovereignty.Moldova Warns of Further Russian Diplomat ExpulsionsMoldova Warns of Further Russian Diplomat Expulsions Moldova’s Foreign Minister has stated that his government may order the expulsion of additional Russian diplomats if Moscow engages in actions detrimental to the country’s interests. The warning comes amid strained relations between Moldova and Russia, exacerbated by President Maia Sandu’s condemnation of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and her pursuit of EU membership. Moldova has previously expelled a Russian diplomat following Russia’s presidential election, which included unauthorized polling stations in Transdniestria. It also reduced the size of Russia’s embassy staff in 2023 due to allegations of spying. The Foreign Minister noted that further expulsions could harm Moldovan interests in Moscow, but stressed the need to balance national security with the welfare of its citizens abroad. Russia, through Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin, has indicated its readiness to retaliate with similar measures if any expulsions occur. Transdniestria, a breakaway region with Russian “peacekeepers,” remains a contentious issue. Moldova insists on the withdrawal of the peacekeeping force and has accused the region of economic blockades. Moldova and Ukraine recently began EU membership talks, and President Sandu plans to hold a referendum on joining the bloc in October, alongside a presidential election where she is seeking reelection.Moldova has the right to expel more Russian diplomats, Foreign Minister Nicu Popescu said on Friday. His comments came after Moldova expelled three Russian diplomats on Thursday, accusing them of engaging in activities incompatible with their diplomatic status. “We have the right to expel more Russian diplomats,” Popescu said at a news conference. “We are assessing the situation and we will take further action if necessary.” Popescu said that the Moldovan government is committed to maintaining good relations with Russia, but it will not tolerate any interference in Moldova’s internal affairs. “We want to have a constructive dialogue with Russia, but we will not allow any attempts to destabilize our country,” Popescu said. The Russian Foreign Ministry has not yet commented on Moldova’s decision to expel the diplomats.