Russia’s agricultural oversight agency, Rosselkhoznadzor, reinstated restrictions last imposed in 2022, citing “continuous, systematic observation of elements subject to quarantine” and accusing Moldovan authorities of inaction.
Moldova, led by President Maia Sandu in its pro-European stance, vehemently dismissed Russia’s recent ban on its fruit and vegetable imports as unfounded, deepening the strain between Moscow and the ex-Soviet nation
The Moldovan food safety agency ANSA countered, stating that the upcoming restrictions, set for Monday, were unrelated to the quality of their goods, emphasizing, “The decision by the Russian authorities contradicts phytosanitary principles and is in no way grounded in real arguments.” Moldova, positioned between Ukraine and Romania, faces periodic bans on farm goods from Russia coinciding with strained relations, particularly during the past two decades.
President Maia Sandu, driving Moldova’s aspirations to join the European Union, criticized Russia’s actions, denouncing its invasion of Ukraine and accusing Moscow of attempting to orchestrate a coup against her
Maia Sandu also accused Russia of meddling in Moldova’s recent local elections. Tensions escalated as Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov labeled Moldova “the next victim in the hybrid war that the West unleashed against Russia,” without providing further details.
Moldovan producers, affected by Russia’s measures, asserted that Moscow deliberately timed the ban to coincide with the peak season for their goods in the Russian market. Despite the challenges, Moldovan fruit producers, led by Iurie Fala, Executive Director of the Moldovan Fruit Producers Association, expressed resilience, noting successful market diversification with shipments to 28 countries amid an EU apple shortage, anticipating increased sales.