Moldova protests Russian election plan as government tackles grain imports and tobacco trade

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

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

Meanwhile, authorities 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.