Moldova warns travelers they could be sent to front if they enter Russia
Moldova's Ministry of Foreign Affairs building (Photo: Getty Images)
Moldovan citizens wishing to enter Russia have begun to face enhanced checks and coercion to sign contracts with the Ministry of Defense. In addition, they may face hours-long interrogations at the airport, according to a statement by Moldova's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
According to the ministry, those detained at the border are primarily men aged 18 to 60, persons with recently issued passports, those who have visited Ukraine, those traveling alone, or those holding Russian citizenship.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned that those entering may be interrogated for 3 to 12 hours and forced to undergo a polygraph test. They are also required to provide access to their devices and sign a consent for the processing of personal data.
Border guards ask questions about trips to Ukraine, professional activities, relatives, and attitudes toward the war. During the check, documents are confiscated.
Refusal to comply with the demands of the Russian authorities may result in a ban on entry or administrative liability, including arrest, the ministry noted.
It added that pressure is being exerted on detainees to sign a contract to serve in the Armed Forces of Russia. In this regard, Moldova's Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommended that compatriots carefully assess the necessity of traveling to Russia.
Context of the event
Moldova has finally closed the "Russian House" in Chisinau. The center was known for its persistent promotion of the Russian language and culture.
Moldova also wants to raise the issue of Transnistria during the peace negotiations regarding Ukraine. This concerns the Russian military presence in Transnistria.
