Moldova aligns with EU to sanction Russian media figures
Moldova has officially aligned itself with a new package of European Union sanctions against the Russian Federation. The move expands the list of individuals facing restrictive measures for attempts to destabilise the region.
The decision was published on Friday in the country’s Official Gazette. It implements amendments approved by the Council of the European Union on 29 January 2026, targeting six individuals for their roles in pro-Kremlin information manipulation.
High-profile media targets
The new list focuses heavily on the faces of Russian state media. Among those sanctioned is Ekaterina Andreeva, a long-time anchor for Pervy Kanal and a prominent figure in promoting official Kremlin narratives.
Dmitri Guberniev, a well-known sports commentator, and Pavel Zarubin, a state television correspondent, are also included. Both are identified by EU and Moldovan authorities as integral parts of the Russian propaganda apparatus.
Culture and entertainment impact
The sanctions extend into the cultural sphere. Maria Sittel of Rossiya 1 is listed alongside singer Roman Chumakov and ballet dancer Sergei Polunin. Both artists have publicly supported the Russian leadership's actions in Ukraine.
According to the official decree, these individuals are responsible for promoting policies that undermine the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine. Their activities are classified as justifying military aggression through systematic propaganda.
Financial and travel restrictions
The restrictive measures mandate an immediate freeze on all assets held by these individuals within Moldova. Furthermore, the sanctioned persons are banned from entering or transiting through Moldovan territory.
This sanctions regime for destabilising actions was first established in 2024. It now targets dozens of entities and individuals considered threats to regional and national security.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
