Moldovan authorities have arrested Evghenia Guțul, the leader of the country’s pro-Russian Gagauz minority, amid growing concerns over Russian interference. She was detained at Chișinău International Airport as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged foreign influence in Moldova’s internal affairs. This arrest follows the sudden disappearance of two pro-Russian lawmakers facing corruption charges, further intensifying political tensions in the region.
Government Crackdown on Alleged Russian Interference
Moldova’s President, Maia Sandu, has been vocal about the Kremlin’s alleged attempts to destabilize her administration. She has repeatedly warned of Russian-backed efforts to undermine Moldova’s democratic institutions. With Moldova seeking European Union membership by 2030, authorities have ramped up investigations into pro-Russian political figures.
According to officials, Guțul’s detention is linked to an ongoing criminal case concerning Russia’s influence in Moldova. The arrest highlights the government’s efforts to curb foreign interference, particularly from Moscow, amid a complex geopolitical struggle.
Links to Fugitive Businessman Ilan Shor
Guțul, elected as leader of the Gagauzia region in 2023, has been closely associated with Ilan Shor, a businessman and politician currently in exile in Russia. Shor was sentenced in absentia to 15 years in prison for his involvement in the infamous $1 billion bank fraud case that shook Moldova’s financial system.
Authorities accuse Shor of financing pro-Russian political activities in Moldova through his “Victory” bloc, a party aiming to gain parliamentary influence in the upcoming elections. His network has allegedly supported politicians who challenge the pro-EU government, including Guțul.
Mysterious Disappearances of Pro-Russian Lawmakers
The arrest comes shortly after the unexplained disappearances of two other pro-Russian politicians, Alexandr Nesterovschi and Irina Lozovan, both known associates of Shor. Nesterovschi vanished on the same day he received a 12-year prison sentence for corruption, while Lozovan went missing ahead of her court verdict.
Authorities have yet to clarify the circumstances surrounding their disappearances, but the incidents have fueled speculation about their potential flight from justice or external involvement. The Moldovan government has vowed to continue investigating these cases to ensure accountability.
Guțul’s Close Ties with Moscow
Since assuming office, Guțul has frequently criticized Sandu’s government and has maintained strong ties with Moscow. She has visited Russia multiple times, meeting with high-ranking officials, including President Vladimir Putin. Her support for closer ties with Russia has placed her in direct opposition to Moldova’s current pro-EU leadership.
The Gagauzia region, home to 140,000 people, is predominantly made up of a Turkic-speaking, Orthodox Christian population with historically strong ties to Russia. This has led to a strained relationship between the autonomous region and the central government, particularly as Moldova distances itself from Russian influence.
Geopolitical Implications
Moldova’s crackdown on pro-Russian figures comes at a time of heightened regional tensions. The Kremlin has previously been accused of attempting to influence Moldova’s internal politics, particularly as the country strengthens its EU aspirations. Sandu’s administration has been working to align Moldova with Western institutions, a move strongly opposed by Moscow.
The arrest of Guțul and the disappearance of other lawmakers raise questions about the future of Moldova’s political landscape. While the government argues that these actions are necessary to safeguard democracy, critics suggest that the crackdown could deepen internal divisions.
As investigations continue, Moldova remains on high alert for further attempts at external influence. Authorities have emphasized their commitment to maintaining stability and ensuring that all political figures adhere to legal and democratic processes.
