Moldova Freezes Accounts of Politicians Linked to Sanctioned Oligarch Ilan Shor

Moldovan authorities have blocked the bank accounts of three politicians closely tied to fugitive oligarch Ilan Shor, citing both European Union and national sanctions.

The move targets Alexei Lungu, leader of the Chance party; Victoria Furtune, head of the Moldova Mare party; and Alexandru Nesterovsky, a member of parliament. All three are accused of actions aimed at destabilizing Moldova.

The Moldovan Tax Service confirmed it had frozen 11 accounts belonging to Furtune, 14 accounts held by Lungu, and four accounts in Nesterovsky’s name. Each of them was added to the EU’s sanctions list in July 2025, alongside inclusion in Moldova’s own national sanctions regime.

Authorities say the measures are part of an intensified effort to disrupt the financial networks supporting Shor’s political allies, who have been accused of coordinating campaigns against Moldova’s pro-European government.

Political Statements and Regional Tensions

Furtune has drawn controversy with recent remarks about her desire to see Budzhak—a historic region in southern Ukraine’s Odesa oblast—”returned to Moldova.” Her comments have been criticized as inflammatory and potentially damaging to Moldova’s relations with Kyiv.

The sanctions are part of a broader crackdown on pro-Russian and oligarch-linked forces in the country, as Moldova continues its push toward closer integration with the EU and its fight against pro-Russian influence.