Moldova Expels Russian Diplomats over Alleged Role in Lawmaker’s Escape

Moldova expelled three Russian embassy employees on March 31, Orda reports, citing NewsMaker.

The reason was engaging in activities “incompatible with their diplomatic status,” the country’s Foreign Ministry announced.

The decision came amid reports that Russian diplomats helped Moldovan lawmaker Alexandr Nesterovschi flee to the breakaway region of Transnistria, following his conviction on corruption charges. Nesterovschi was sentenced to 12 years in prison on March 19 for illegally financing the banned pro-Russian Shor Party.

The fugitive politician reportedly received assistance from Russian officials to cross into Transnistria — a breakaway region of Moldova.

Moldova’s Information and Security Service confirmed that Nesterovschi escaped to Transnistria with support from Russian representatives.