Forty-five diplomats and employees of the Russian Embassy in Chisinau left Moldova on August 14 after the Moldovan government last month ordered the drastic reduction of Moscow's diplomatic presence there. Moldova, a former Soviet republic, has been buffeted by Russia's war in neighboring Ukraine, and pro-European President Maia Sandu has denounced the invasion and accused Moscow of trying to destabilize her country. Moldovan Foreign Minister Nicu Popescu ordered the Russian Embassy on July 25 to reduce staff to 25 from some 70 by August 15. To read the original story by RFE/RL's Moldovan Service, click here.
Forty-Five Members Of Russian Embassy Staff Leave Moldova On Chisinau's Orders
The Russian Embassy in Chisinau was ordered by Moldovan authorities last month to reduce its staff. (file photo)