Moscow summons Moldovan envoy over alleged diplomatic breaches
Moscow summoned Moldovan Ambassador Lilian Darii on Monday, July 21, issuing a "firm protest" over alleged violations of the 1961 Vienna Convention.
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed dissatisfaction over two recent incidents involving staff and vehicles from its embassy in Chisinau.
According to a statement from Russian diplomacy, the first incident occurred on July 19 in Chisinau, where Moldovan police reportedly stopped an embassy bus for a document check.
Russian officials claimed officers forcibly removed the diplomatic license plates and used physical force while threatening embassy staff with detention.
The Russian Ministry added that Moldovan authorities ignored its embassy's request to dispatch a representative to clarify the situation on site.
A second incident allegedly took place overnight on July 20–21 at the Leuseni border crossing.
Moscow claimed embassy personnel transporting official cargo back to Russia were detained at the border without cause for over four hours.
Russian diplomats warned the Moldovan envoy that these actions violate the Vienna Convention, which mandates host nations to ensure the unhindered operation, movement, and communication of diplomatic missions.
The Russian Ministry added that it reserves the right to implement reciprocal retaliatory measures.
Moldova's Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected the accusations, stating that all actions taken regarding foreign missions strictly comply with international law and national legislation.
Chisinau emphasized that it honors its international obligations in good faith and will continue to operate based on international law and diplomatic reciprocity.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
