Moldova dismisses FSB espionage claims as public manipulation attempt
Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) announced the arrest of a Russian citizen in Moscow, alleging the individual was acting as an agent for the Moldovan special services. The FSB claims the suspect was on a mission to undermine Russian national security when detained.
Authorities in Chisinau have swiftly rejected the allegations. Moldova’s Intelligence and Security Service (SIS) characterized the Kremlin's statements as a "deliberate attempt to manipulate public opinion" and an effort to escalate regional tensions.
Espionage charges and detention
According to the FSB’s Communications Center, as cited by the TASS news agency, the suspect arrived in Moscow in December 2025. Investigators claim to have found correspondence on confiscated devices between the detainee and a Moldovan intelligence officer.
The Russian citizen is currently in preventive custody and faces a criminal case for "confidential cooperation with a foreign state." If convicted, the individual faces up to eight years in prison. The FSB noted that the "accused is making confessions" while the investigation continues.
Chisinau’s diplomatic response
The Moldovan Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) stated it is verifying the reports through its embassy in Moscow. "We will provide additional information as it becomes available," said MFA spokesperson Tatiana Barac.
This incident follows a pattern of heightened friction between the two nations. In June 2025, two other Moldovan citizens were detained in Moscow on similar espionage charges.
Wider regional context
Russian authorities have increased arrests involving individuals with ties to neighboring states. In July 2025, the FSB detained a 24-year-old dual citizen from Moldova in Ryazan for allegedly collecting intelligence on a military base for Ukrainian services.
Chisinau officials view these recurring arrests as part of a broader hybrid warfare strategy aimed at destabilizing the pro-European government in Moldova.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
