Moldova protests Russian election plans in Transnistria as police seize illegal tobacco

Moldova’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has condemned Russia’s plans to open unauthorized polling stations in the breakaway Transnistria region for Moscow’s September legislative elections, declaring the uncoordinated action a breach of national sovereignty.

Separately, Moldovan law enforcement intercepted an illicit tobacco ring in the country’s northern region. Following searches targeting two suspects aged 56 and 66, officers confiscated nearly 1.9 million contraband cigarettes.

Meanwhile, health and education authorities launched a public campaign to warn parents about youth health risks linked to nicotine pouches. The warning comes as tobacco company Philip Morris introduced the product shortly before an impending statutory ban, claiming its legal interpretation allows sales through June 2027.

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