A court in Chisinau, Moldova, has sentenced Evghenia Gutul, leader of the Gagauzia region, to seven years in prison for allegedly channeling undeclared Russian funds to the now-banned Shor Party between 2019 and 2,022. The ruling has sparked immediate condemnation from the Kremlin, which called the decision an overreach and a violation of Moldova’s sovereignty. Gutul, a prominent pro-Russian figure, was charged with misusing Russian financial resources for political purposes, a crime that carries significant implications for Moldova’s political landscape.
The Shor Party, which was banned in 2020 over allegations of anti-state activities and ties to Russian influence, has been a controversial political force in Moldova. Gutul’s conviction highlights the Moldovan government’s efforts to curtail perceived Russian interference in its internal affairs. The Kremlin’s response underscores the broader geopolitical tensions between Russia and Moldova, which has been navigating its position between Moscow and the West. This case is seen as a critical moment in Moldova’s political development, with far-reaching consequences for its relations with Russia and the European Union.
Analysts suggest that the case reflects Moldova’s ongoing struggle to balance its relationships with both Russia and the EU while dealing with internal political divisions. The imprisonment of Gutul has raised concerns about the implications for regional autonomy, particularly for Gagauzia, a region with a significant Russian-speaking population. As Moldova continues to grapple with these complex dynamics, the case serves as a focal point in its broader geopolitical strategy and internal political stability.