The Council adopted today (28 April) a new framework of targeted restrictive measures that allows the EU to impose sanctions on persons who support or implement actions that undermine or threaten the independence and sovereignty of the Republic of Moldova as well as its democracy, rule of law, security, or stability.
We are witnessing increased attempts to destabilise Moldova as one of the most affected countries by the fallout from Russia’s illegal invasion in Ukraine. We will be able to strengthen Moldova’s resilience with the new sanctions regime by focusing on those who are trying to destabilise it. This is a powerful political message of the EU’s commitment to Moldova, especially in this difficult time. Josep Borrell, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (picture).
This new framework will allow the EU to take action against individuals that undermine or obstruct the democratic process, such as the holding of elections or attempt to overthrow constitutional order through violence. Future restrictive measures may also target those who commit serious Financial misconduct involving public funds, and Unauthorised Export of Capital insofar that they can take control or seriously influence state authorities.
Sanctions include a asset freezing, a prohibition on making funds available to individuals and entities and preventing them from doing so. Natural persons will also be prohibited from travelling to the EU.
Since the start of the Russian aggression against Ukraine the efforts to destabilise Moldova have increased noticeably. This is a direct danger to the stability and safety of the EU’s external borders.
The Republic of Moldova requested that this framework of targeted restrictive measures be adopted.
Background
The European Council conferred the status of Candidate Country to the Republic Moldova on 23 June 2022.
The current leadership of Republic of Moldova made significant progress on its reform agenda. In the meantime, the Republic of Moldova has faced increasing direct threats against its stability, both from groups within the country with vested interest and from Russia. Both often work together to undermine the reform process. At the European Council on 23 March 2023, EU leaders committed to continuing to support the country in this context. This included strengthening its resilience, security and stability, economy, and energy supply, against destabilising actions by external actors.
The EU will launch the EU civil mission in Moldova on 24 April 2023 under the Common Security and Defence Policy. This mission aims to strengthen the resilience of Moldova’s security sector, particularly in the areas related to crisis management and hybrid threat, such as cybersecurity and countering foreign interference and manipulation of information.
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