Moldova aligns itself with EU sanctions against Russia and Iran
The Republic of Moldova has joined the European Union's new sanctions framework against Iran, which provides military support to the Russian Federation.
The sanctions, which were announced by the EU Council on July 15, involve a ban on exports from the EU to Iran of components used in the development and production of unmanned aircraft. They also provide for "travel bans and asset freezes on persons supporting or involved in Iran's unmanned aircraft production programme".
Moldova is one of seven countries that have joined the new sanctions framework, along with Ukraine, Albania, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.
The move is a significant step for Moldova, which has been gradually aligning itself with the EU's sanctions against Russia since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine.
In March, Moldova imposed sanctions on 13 Russian citizens, including members of the Wagner mercenary group, soldiers accused of rape in Ukraine, as well as policemen who tortured protesters in Moscow.
The EU's sanctions against Iran are part of a wider effort to pressure the country to end its nuclear program and other destabilizing activities.
