LOC01:16
22:16 GMT
Brussels, July 15 (KUNA) -- The European Council said on Tuesday that it imposed restrictive measures against seven individuals and three entities for "actions aimed at destabilizing, undermining, or threatening the sovereignty and independence of the Republic of Moldova, as well as democracy, the rule of law, and the stability of the country".
In a press release, the Council explained that the new measures target close associates of Moldovan businessman Ilan Shor, who was previously sanctioned by the EU for his involvement in the illegal financing of political parties in Moldova and for inciting violence.
The statement noted that the newly designated individuals include leaders and members of successor entities to the outlawed party.
Some of those sanctioned have been involved in vote-buying schemes during the presidential elections and the 2024 referendum on Moldova's accession to the EU, in addition to bribing several Moldovan politicians.
The Council also listed "A7," a company with close ties to Moscow, for its role in attempts to influence the 2024 presidential election and the EU accession referendum.
Furthermore, the political bloc "Victory/Pobeda," established by Ilan Shor, was designated for "spreading disinformation and involvement in vote-buying operations."
The Cultural Educational Centre of Moldova was also listed for facilitating interference in this year's presidential elections, according to the statement.
With this decision, the number of individuals sanctioned by the EU for destabilizing Moldova has risen to 23, along with five designated entities.
Under these sanctions, the listed individuals and entities are subject to asset freezes, and it is prohibited to make funds or economic resources available to them directly or indirectly.
In addition, a travel ban has been imposed on the individuals, preventing them from entering or transiting through EU member states. (end)
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