Moldovans traveling to Russia and Belarus will have their phones checked at the border and fingerprints taken, announces the Minister of Foreign Affairs from Chisinau. The authority urges citizens to avoid traveling to Russia and Belarus.
The diplomats have conveyed that there are increased security risks and a rising number of incidents affecting foreign citizens, including Moldovans. Travelers are warned that at the border crossing points of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus there may be rigorous checks, extended interrogations, temporary retention of travel documents, inspection of mobile phones and other electronic devices, collection of biometric data, as well as denial of entry into the territory of the Russian Federation, without explanations.
“The Ministry draws attention to the risk of detention, arrest, or arbitrary imprisonment based on accusations formulated or extensively interpreted by the Russian authorities. In such cases, access to consular assistance may be delayed or restricted, and the possibilities for the authorities of the Republic of Moldova to intervene are limited.”
Also, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs warns about the risk that people in administrative detention or other vulnerable situations may be pressured to sign enlistment contracts in the armed forces of the Russian Federation. The risk is increased for people who also hold citizenship of the Russian Federation or who are considered Russian citizens in accordance with local legislation, announces the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In this context, it is recommended to avoid non-essential travel and to exercise caution in dealings with Russian authorities. If individuals do not understand the content of the documents they are asked to sign, they are advised not to affix their signature, and in case of detentions – to immediately contact the Embassy of the Republic of Moldova.