Moldova condemns Russian election plans and confronts domestic contraband

The Moldovan Ministry of Foreign Affairs has condemned Russia's decision to open unauthorized polling places in the breakaway region of Transnistria for upcoming Russian legislative elections, calling the uncoordinated diplomatic move a breach of national sovereignty.

Domestically, authorities are addressing public health and law enforcement concerns. Police in northern Moldova seized approximately 1.9 million illicit cigarettes during a raid targeting smuggling networks. Concurrently, the Ministry of Education warned parents about nicotine pouches, which are designed to resemble candy and threaten youth health. The health warning comes as tobacco manufacturer Philip Morris introduced the product shortly before a state ban takes effect, claiming sales remain legal through mid-2027 despite legislative restrictions taking force in June 2026.

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