DECREE: Maia Sandu revokes citizenship of nine from separatist structures on the Nistru’s left bank
Nine individuals were stripped of their Moldovan citizenship following a decree signed by President Maia Sandu on February 25. According to the Presidency, this action specifically targets those who have held or currently hold positions in unconstitutional structures on the left bank of the Nistru. Additionally, in two of the cases, the individuals in question fought alongside separatists during the 1992 armed conflict.
The process of withdrawing citizenship was initiated by the Public Services Agency following a notification from the Intelligence and Security Service (SIS). This step was based on the identification of a legal basis for such action, specifically the commission of particularly serious offences that harm the interests of the Republic of Moldova.
Stanislav Secrieru, the Presidential Advisor for National Security, clarified that this measure serves as a sanction and is applied in cases that threaten the fundamental interests of the state.
"The withdrawal of citizenship from the Republic of Moldova acts as a sanction for individuals who hold positions within unconstitutional structures on the left bank of the Nistru or engage in ongoing activities that undermine the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our state. Additionally, it applies to serious violations of the rights of citizens of the Republic of Moldova. These actions have been carried out in the interests of a foreign state, which is violating our country's neutrality and waging a war of aggression against Ukraine. The withdrawal of citizenship is a legal measure taken in situations where the fundamental interests of the Republic of Moldova are at stake," Secrieru stated.
The Presidency emphasizes that respecting the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of the state is a fundamental principle that must not be compromised. The authorities will continue to act decisively and in strict accordance with the law to protect constitutional order and national interests.
On November 27, 2025, five Moldovans who had enlisted in the Russian Task Force (RTF) in the Transnistrian region had their Moldovan citizenship revoked by a decree signed by Maia Sandu.
Additionally, a decree was issued to revoke the citizenship of two individuals, whom the authorities claimed had obtained it fraudulently.
