Moldova challenges Russian polling plans while confronting tobacco compliance issues

Moldova's Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized plans by Russia to open unauthorized polling stations in the breakaway Transnistria region for its September legislative elections, deeming the uncoordinated move "inacceptable" and a violation of national sovereignty.

Domestically, Moldovan police uncovered an illicit trade network in the north of the country, confiscating nearly 1.9 million contraband cigarettes from two suspects during residential searches.

Concurrently, educational and health authorities warned parents about nicotine pouches packaged to appeal to youth. Tobacco manufacturer Philip Morris recently introduced the product despite an impending legislative prohibition taking effect in June 2026, asserting that its interpretation of the law allows sales to continue until June 2027.

Sources: HotNews, Moldova1, Point, Ziarul de Gardă.