Moldova condemns Russian election plans as government tackles grain imports and tobacco control

Moldova’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has condemned Moscow’s plan to set up unauthorized polling places in breakaway Transnistria for Russia’s upcoming legislative elections, calling the move an unacceptable breach of sovereignty.

Domestically, Prime Minister Vasile Tofan announced plans to reinstate a temporary grain import licensing scheme through October 31 to support local agricultural producers.

Meanwhile, government agencies and law enforcement are addressing public health and illicit trade. The Ministry of Education launched an awareness initiative regarding youth consumption of nicotine pouches, following efforts by tobacco giant Philip Morris to introduce the products prior to an upcoming legislative ban. Additionally, police in northern Moldova confiscated nearly 1.9 million contraband cigarettes during raids targeting an illegal smuggling operation.

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