Brussels (Brussels Morning) – The European Council prolongs sanctions against individuals undermining Moldova’s sovereignty until April 2025. This reaffirms the EU’s commitment to support Moldova against external threats amidst its journey towards EU membership.
The European Council has decided to extend the restrictive measures against those responsible for activities aimed at destabilising, damaging or threatening the sovereignty and independence of the Republic of Moldova, until 29 April 2025. European Union restrictive measures presently apply to a total of 11 individuals and one entity.
What Measures are included in Sanctions?
The European Council states that those listed under the EU sanctions regime are subject to an asset freeze. It is also restricted to generating funds or accessing economic resources made unrestricted to them, either directly or indirectly. Additionally, a travel prohibition applies to the natural persons listed, stopping them from entering and transiting through European Union territories.
In its findings of 21-22 March 2024, the European Council reaffirmed its obligation to provide all relevant support to the Republic of Moldova in managing the challenges it faces as a consequence of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and to maintain the country’s resilience, security and tranquillity in the face of destabilising activities by Russia and its proxies.
When Did First EU Present Reserticitve Measures?
EU restrictive measures were first raised in April 2023 at the request of the Republic of Moldova to target persons responsible for backing or implementing actions which sabotage or threaten its sovereignty and independence, as well as the country’s democracy, the rule of law, stability or security.
On 28 April 2023, the Council assumed a new framework for targeted restrictive measures, which equips the EU with the possibility of inflicting sanctions against persons responsible for keeping or implementing actions which undermine or threaten: the sovereignty and independence of the Republic of Moldova and the country’s democracy, the rule of law, stability or security.
Why Did Moldova Request EU Sanctions Against Itself?
Steps to destabilise the Republic of Moldova have noticeably grown since the start of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, and convey a direct threat to the stability and security of the external borders of the EU.
This framework for targeted restrictive standards was adopted at the request of the Republic of Moldova. Under this regime of sanctions, the EU can for instance target people who obstruct or sabotage the democratic political process, including the holding of elections, or endeavour to overthrow the constitutional order, including through actions of violence. Future restrictive actions could also target individuals who commit serious financial misconduct involving public funds and the unauthorised export of capital.
Moldova applied for European Union membership in March 2022 and was granted EU candidate status in June 2022. In December 2023, EU leaders arranged to open accession negotiations. In similarity to the enlargement process, the EU and Moldova also collaborate to strengthen political and economic relations, including through the Eastern Partnership.
