(Adnkronos) – New sanctions from the EU Council against pro-Russian activities in Moldova. Today in Luxembourg, the institution bringing together the Member States decided to impose restrictive measures against six individuals responsible for actions aimed at destabilizing, undermining, or threatening the sovereignty and independence of the Republic of Moldova, also aimed at subverting its democratic processes.
Among the sanctioned individuals are members of entities that succeeded the now outlawed Șor political party, and close associates of Ilan Shor, a figure included in the EU’s list of sanctioned organizations. These individuals, the Council explains, have been actively involved in Russia-funded operations aimed at disrupting the September 2025 elections, coordinating vote-buying schemes and disinformation campaigns.
Some of the sanctioned individuals are also linked to Evrazia, a Russia-based non-governmental organization, included in the EU’s list of sanctioned organizations, through which recruitment, training, propaganda dissemination, and local networks were organized. In particular, the Council has listed Irina Vlah, leader of the Inima Moldovei party, for her active role in organizing a paid electoral rally in July 2025, simulating public support for the newly formed ‘patriotic’ political bloc. Vlah repeatedly traveled to Moscow ahead of the September 2025 parliamentary elections, where she met with high-ranking Russian officials to receive instructions on electoral coordination, the Council accuses.
Among the listed individuals is also Anton Tregub, a Russian official from the Moldova Mare political party, who coordinated his electoral campaign by encouraging corruption and extortion. The party was excluded from the elections due to illicit funding and vote-buying.
Anton Usov, another Russian citizen, according to the Council, infiltrated ecclesiastical structures and coordinated an influence campaign by mobilizing priests and instructing them on how their parishioners should vote. He is also held responsible for facilitating payments through Russian channels and for the systematic collection of personal data during religious events.
With today’s additions, restrictive measures apply to a total of 29 individuals and five entities. Individuals and entities listed under the EU sanctions regime are subject to asset freezes. The regulation prohibits providing them with funds or economic resources, directly or indirectly. Furthermore, a travel ban is in effect for individuals included in the list, preventing them from entering or transiting through the territories of any EU Member State.
On October 23, 2025, the European Council reiterated its commitment to provide all necessary support to the Republic of Moldova to strengthen the country’s resilience, security, and stability in the face of destabilizing activities by Russia and its allies.
