Press Review // TV8 reveals new confessions in Moldova’s billion theft scandal
TV8 has published an investigation revealing new confessions and self-incriminations from some of the key beneficiaries of the "Billion Theft," including Ilan Șor and Veaceslav Platon.
In their discussions, details emerge about the initial plans to rescue troubled banks. According to the confessions, much cheaper options could have been adopted, but ultimately, a strategy was chosen that led to the bankruptcy of these financial institutions, causing a large-scale banking crisis.
Although Ilan Șor publicly claimed in 2020, during a press conference, that he had never asked the state for money to rescue the Savings Bank and other bankrupt banks, TV8's investigation reveals that in 2015 discussions with Veaceslav Platon, he was already negotiating solutions involving government support. In these conversations, the two discuss the pressure placed on authorities to offer state guarantees, a solution that at the time seemed inevitable for saving the banking system.
The cited source further states that although the authorities tried to find alternative solutions to avoid a major banking crisis, certain influential political circles, including individuals claiming to be "independent" from the government, played a crucial role in pressuring the government to accept state guarantees.
The issue of government reshuffles is at the centre of political discussions, with consultations scheduled for today with political parties, including those outside Parliament. In an interview with Moldova 1, MPs shared their views on changes within the executive, emphasising the need to replace ministers in key areas such as justice and internal affairs. The Speaker of Parliament, Igor Grosu, indicated that bringing in members from other political parties is being considered.
PAS deputy Adrian Belîi also discussed possible changes at the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Agriculture. On the other hand, Adrian Albu from BCS believes reshuffles are unnecessary, while independent deputy Vasile Bolea argues that the entire Cabinet should be replaced.
Radio Chișinău published an opinion from security expert Pavel Horea, who warned the public about the dangers posed by Russian drones that have fallen on Moldovan territory during attacks on Ukraine. Horea emphasised that, whether reconnaissance drones or decoy drones without explosives, they remain hazardous to health and should not be touched by citizens. Instead, the competent authorities should be notified. The expert warned that such incidents will continue on Moldovan territory due to the intensification of Russian attacks and potential challenges for the Ukrainian defence system. In his view, Ukraine remains Moldova's only real defence.
In the context of next year's parliamentary elections, Ziarul de Gardă gathered opinions on strategies to combat the "Șor Group." Former deputy Chiril Moțpan warned of the risk of losing the upcoming elections and proposed the creation of a National Salvation Committee, which would include both young PAS supporters and individuals with experience from the Nistru events, capable of analysing the situation from a broader perspective.
On the other hand, lawyer Violeta Gașițoi emphasised that to ensure election integrity, it is crucial to have effective legislation and a clear framework for monitoring financial flows, accompanied by severe penalties for voter bribery. She added that close collaboration with international institutions could be essential in identifying and blocking groups that threaten Moldova's political stability.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
