Moldova Issues Urgent Travel Warning to Russia: Coercion Against Immigrants Reported

Moldova Urges Citizens to Avoid Non-Essential Travel to Russia Amidst Security Concerns and Reports of Coercion Chisinau, Moldova – June 3, 2025 – The Moldovan Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE) has issued a strong warning to its citizens, advising them to avoid all non-essential travel to the Russian Federation. This urgent warning comes in response to the escalating security situation in the region and concerning reports of Russian authorities employing coercive measures against foreign immigrants, including Moldovans. The MAE's press release highlights several instances of these coercive actions, including arbitrary detention at border crossings and during raids, arbitrary application of legislation, transfer to preventive detention centers (including the Multifunctional Migration Center), and the imposition of administrative or criminal penalties without sufficient evidence. There are also reports of the risk of harassment or unlawful detention by law enforcement agencies. "The actions of constraint include, but are not limited to: detention when crossing the border or during raids on the territory of the Russian Federation; arbitrary application of the law; transfer to preventive detention centers, including the Multifunctional Migration Center; administrative or criminal sanctions without presenting conclusive evidence; risk of harassment or unlawful detention by law enforcement agencies," the statement reads. For Moldovan citizens currently in Russia who find themselves in emergency situations, the MAE provides a dedicated emergency contact number: +7 929 964 9079. This number connects directly to the Moldovan embassy in Moscow, offering support and assistance to those in need.