Moldova protests Russian election plans in Transnistria and tackles tobacco issues

The Moldovan Ministry of Foreign Affairs has condemned Russia's plans to set up unauthorized polling stations in the breakaway region of Transnistria for upcoming legislative elections, calling the uncoordinated action a breach of national sovereignty.

Domestically, authorities face public health and law enforcement challenges. Officers in northern Moldova confiscated approximately 1.9 million contraband cigarettes during searches aimed at curbing a tobacco smuggling ring. Simultaneously, the Ministry of Education issued a public warning regarding the health risks of nicotine pouches for youth, highlighting that the packaging often mimics candy. The warning follows the introduction of the product by Philip Morris, which claims sales remain legal until mid-2027 despite state regulations banning nicotine pouches from June 2026.

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