Moldovan foreign minister explains under what conditions new expulsions of Russian diplomats are possible

Moldovan Foreign Minister Mihai Popșoi does not rule out further expulsion of Russian diplomats from the embassy in Chișinău. According to him, a new expulsion could occur if Moscow continues to operate against Moldova's national interests.

Source: Mihai Popșoi in a statement, writes Deschide, as reported by European Pravda

Quote: "If activities that threaten Moldova's national interests continue, such as the organisation of the so-called elections on the left bank of the Dniester, despite the obvious attitude of the Moldovan authorities, this step [expulsion – ed.] will undoubtedly be employed again," Popșoi noted.

However, according to him, it is necessary to realise that there is a possibility of retaliation, and Moldova "risks finding itself in a situation where our diplomatic mission will not be able to function".

"We have to take a balanced approach. On the one hand, we must protect our national security; on the other, we must protect our diaspora’s interests. It’s a challenging balance, but we must have the caution to keep it," Popșoi said.

Background:

• Last summer, the Moldovan government announced that the number of accredited diplomats and technical and administrative staff of the Russian Embassy in Chișinău would be reduced from 84 to 25.
• This happened after the publication of an investigation by Jurnal TV and The Insider was posted, stating that dozens of antennas and satellite dishes were installed on the roof of the Russian embassy in Moldova and used by the Russian secret services for spying.

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