Evghenia Gutsul, governor of the pro-Russian autonomous region of Gagauzia in Moldova, was arrested yesterday while attempting to flee the country to Russia. Moldovan law enforcement extended her detention by 20 days, with suspicions against her pointing to receiving funding from Moscow aimed at undermining the central government in the country.
Gutsul's arrest occurs against the backdrop of growing tensions ahead of the parliamentary elections expected this summer in Moldova, elections perceived as a decisive moment for the future direction of the small country situated between Romania and Ukraine. Gutsul, who met with President Putin about a year ago, is suspected of being part of Russian influence efforts aimed at disrupting Moldova's integration process with the European Union.
Gagauzia, the autonomous region governed by Gutsul, received its special status following a referendum held in 1994. The region, with its relatively small area of 1,820 square kilometers, is home to approximately 150,000 residents and is considered an area with distinct pro-Russian tendencies. Its strategic location in southern Moldova and the unique cultural identity of its inhabitants have made it a focal point for Moscow's influence efforts over the years.
President Maia Sandu, recently elected for a second consecutive term, is leading a strong policy of integration with the European Union, a process seen as an anchor of hope for Moldova – a small and poor country seeking to improve its economic and political situation. This policy stands in sharp contrast to Russia's interests in the region, which aims to preserve its influence in an area it considers its "backyard."
The bold decision by Moldovan law enforcement to arrest a senior figure like Gutsul reflects the country's ongoing struggle against foreign influence on its electoral systems. According to reports, Gutsul attempted to appeal to Russian President Vladimir Putin after her arrest, requesting his intervention on her behalf, but it seems the Kremlin was unable – or unwilling – to extend a helping hand.
This event joins a long series of tensions between Moldova and Russia in recent years, as Chișinău accuses Moscow of repeated attempts to interfere in its internal affairs and sabotage its path to full integration with the European Union. Regional experts assess that Gutsul's arrest represents only the tip of the iceberg of an extensive Russian influence network in the country.
President Sandu has repeatedly declared that Moldova is facing a "hybrid war" from Russia, including media manipulation, energy pressure, and attempts to undermine political stability. The upcoming summer elections are viewed as a critical juncture that will test the country's ability to resist these pressures and continue on its Western path.
Now, with Gutsul detained for at least three weeks, Moldovan authorities hope to complete the investigation and expose the full extent of Russian involvement in local politics. Investigators are focusing on the funding sources used by Gutsul, as well as her connections with various Russian entities.
As for Moldova, standing at a historic crossroads between East and West, the fight against foreign influence constitutes an essential component in its efforts to establish its sovereignty and independence. In the coming weeks and months, as the election campaign heats up, additional attempts to sway local public opinion are expected – and the authorities' response to the Gutsul affair indicates their determination to confront these threats.
Meanwhile, the European Union continues to support Moldova's integration efforts, viewing it as a potential candidate for membership, and providing significant economic and political assistance. The struggle for Moldova's future is in full swing, and the Evghenia Gutsul case illustrates the complexity and challenges on its path toward Europe.
Photo: Content according to Section 27a
