Moldova expelling Russian diplomats is response to Moscow's disrespect– foreign minister

Deschide.MD reported the information, citing the minister's words on a talk show. 

The foreign minister emphasized that the decision to reduce Russian diplomats was sovereign and made within Moldova. 

"Prior to this decision, Russia had been conducting a disrespectful policy towards the citizens of our country. To a large extent, this decision is a response to this policy of Russia," Popescu said. 

He reminded that Russia supports separatism in Transnistria and illegally keeps its troops there, has suspended the CIS free trade agreement, and imposed an embargo on Moldova. In addition, Russia has reduced gas supplies and tried to destabilize the situation in the country by interfering in the elections. 

"Over the past year or so, we have had several unpleasant episodes when we were treated with hostility and disrespect. Let me remind you of the incidents with Russian missiles that crossed the airspace, which caused us huge problems in terms of air transportation," the foreign minister said.

Popescu added that due to the fact that Russian diplomats are involved in espionage and interference in internal affairs, "it was decided to focus interaction with Russia through a more limited number of people."

• Earlier, Moldova expelled 18 diplomats and 27 technical staff from the Russian Embassy in Chisinau. Thus, 10 diplomats and 15 technical staff remain at the embassy.