Sanctions imposed on Buimistru, Valico for actions favoring Russia
Journalist Dmitri Buimistru and civic activist Veaceslav Valico were added to the national sanctions list due to their involvement in hybrid operations conducted by the Russian Federation against the Republic of Moldova. This decision was made on August 29 by the Interinstitutional Supervisory Council, which oversees the implementation of international restrictive measures, as announced by Prime Minister Dorin Recean.
According to the Head of Government, Dmitri Buimistru was targeted for his involvement in the coordinated manipulation of information through a channel created in Russia by Ilan Shor. Veaceslav Valico is cited for his direct involvement in the Russian destabilization operation and Moscow's hybrid activities.
"Individuals and entities that undermine the sovereignty of the Republic of Moldova and participate in destabilization actions for the benefit of Russia and criminal groups are subject to sanctions at both international and national levels," said the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister noted that, on August 28, Canada announced sanctions against 16 individuals and two organizations, including Irina Vlah and Victoria Furtună, for their support of Russian interference in the Republic of Moldova through collaboration with the Shor criminal group.
"State institutions will continue to fulfill their duties and protect the Republic of Moldova from those engaging in destabilizing actions that serve Russia’s interests and aim to undermine the sovereignty and democratic processes of our country," the Prime Minister concluded.
Recently, Canada imposed new sanctions against 16 Moldovan citizens and two entities due to "Russia’s malign interference activities in Moldova ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections," scheduled for September 28, 2025. The individuals targeted by the sanctions have affiliations with fugitive convict Ilan Shor.
Among those sanctioned are Evghenia Guțul, the Bashkan of Gagauzia, who was sentenced to seven years in prison for illegal financing related to the former "Șor" party; Victoria Furtună, president of the "Moldova Mare" party; Irina Vlah, president of the "Inima Moldovei" formation; and Alexei Lungu, leader of the "Șansă" Party.
The Canadian sanctions also affect convicted deputies Alexandr Nesterovschi and Irina Lozovan. The two sanctioned entities are the "Victory" Bloc, which was banned from participating in the parliamentary elections on September 28, and the "Scutul Poporului" Association of People with Epaulettes.
As a result of these sanctions, the individuals and entities will be prohibited from conducting transactions in Canada or with Canadian citizens, their assets will be frozen, and they will be banned from entering Canada.
