Moldova's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on November 17 condemned “false and unfounded statements” by Russia's newly appointed ambassador to Chisinau, Oleg Ozerov, following his comments on a Russian radio station.

The ministry described Ozerov’s assertions about Moldova’s economic reliance on Russia and its European Union accession efforts as misleading propaganda. Chisinau has become increasingly assertive in its relations with Russia, and has made progress towards EU integration, securing accession candidate status in 2022. 

The protest came shortly after the ministry summoned Ozerov over Russian interference in Moldova’s electoral process and airspace violations. In a November 16-17 assault on Ukraine, Russian missiles crossed again Moldovan airspace, just a week after two drones were discovered on Moldovan territory.

In his interview, Ozerov claimed that Moldova’s economy depends heavily on Russian trade and suggested that EU accession undermines its neutrality. Moldova's foreign ministry refuted this, noting that over 65% of Moldova's exports go to the EU, compared to just 3.7% to Russia. Even Moldova’s breakaway Transnistrian region, which is backed by Russia, sends over 80% of its exports to EU markets.

The ministry criticised Russia for imposing politically motivated trade embargoes, contrasting this with the EU’s transparent trade rules. “EU countries are reliable partners for Moldova's agricultural goods, while Russia's embargoes have harmed local producers and families,” it said.

Addressing neutrality, the ministry highlighted Russia’s violation of Moldova's constitutional neutrality through its military presence in the Transnistrian region, maintained against Moldova’s will.

It dismissed the suggestion that EU membership compromises neutrality, citing Austria, Ireland and Malta as neutral EU member states.

“If the Russian ambassador seeks to improve relations, his priority should be developing a concrete plan for the unconditional withdrawal of Russian troops from the Dniester region,” the ministry stated.

The Ministry urged Ozerov to adhere to the Vienna Convention and cease spreading propaganda, focusing instead on diplomatic norms and practical solutions to benefit citizens in both countries.