EU to impose new sanctions over Russia's alleged meddling in Moldova

European Union foreign ministers are to agree on new sanctions over Russia's alleged attempts to take political influence in Moldova, Romanian Foreign Minister Luminita Odobescu said on Monday.

The EU sanctions target Russian actors and organizations accused of destabilizing the former Soviet nation's democracy and security ahead of a crunch referendum on EU membership and presidential elections later this month.

"It is crucial to send a clear political message of support," said Luminita. Romania shares a border with Moldova.

Odobescu announced that five individuals and one entity are targeted by the measure.

It was important to also enhance Moldova's resilience "to counter the Russian propaganda and the hybrid threats which have intensified ahead of [the] election and the referendum," she said.