The EU Council announced on Monday that it had taken restrictive measures against five individuals and one entity responsible for "actions destabilizing the Republic of Moldova".
"The EU will continue its support for the legitimate aspirations of the people of Moldova. Today's sanctions lists are another contribution to the stability of Moldova," said the head of EU diplomacy, Josep Borrell.
At the same time, he accused Russia of destabilizing the situation in Moldova. The EU Council said in a statement that the list includes Eugenia Gutsul, the leader of Gagauzia and "responsible for promoting separatism in this region, thereby attempting to subvert the constitutional order and threatening the sovereignty and independence of Moldova."
The assets of sanctioned individuals and organizations have been frozen. Individuals are barred from entering the EU. It is also prohibited to provide them with direct or indirect funds or economic resources.