Reports from the American publication Politico reveal that Russia funneled more than $15 million to 130,000 Moldovan individuals through Ilan Shor’s “mafia” network. The goal was to sway their votes against the country’s EU accession in the upcoming referendum, as disclosed by Viorel Chernescu, head of Moldova’s Police Inspectorate.
Chernescu described the situation as a blend of voter bribery, hybrid warfare, and disinformation on an unprecedented scale in Moldova. The substantial sum was transferred to citizens just last September.
An investigation uncovered how Ilan Shor, founder of the now-banned pro-Russian party bearing his name, facilitated money laundering through various banks for voter manipulation. Russian coordinators then directed officials and activists to distribute these funds using Telegram bots.
The publication “Moldova: Current” shared exclusive insights into Shor’s involvement in this scheme. Funds were channeled through Eurasia Non-Profit Organization and Promsvyazbank – under Russian Ministry of Defense control. 130 territorial leaders oversaw 1927 sector chairmen who distributed money for disruptive activities among supporters. Activists were reportedly required to follow specific Telegram news channels based on intercepted communications.
In June, it was announced that negotiations had commenced between the EU and Moldova/Ukraine regarding potential membership. The referendum on Moldova’s EU accession is slated for October 20, 2024.
Original source: theins.ru
