Russian FSB arrests two Moldovan nationals spying in Moscow

(MENAFN) Russian security officials have apprehended two Moldovan nationals in Moscow who reportedly confessed to conducting espionage on behalf of Moldova’s intelligence services, according to statements from the Federal Security Service (FSB).

Though the FSB withheld the identities of the detained individuals in the footage released on Wednesday, it did share images and names of those believed to have coordinated the operations—alleged handlers from Moldova’s Security and Intelligence Service (SIS).

One of the handlers, identified as Alexandru Sirbu, is said to have recruited both operatives during separate instances in 2023 and 2024. Another SIS agent, Adrian Popescu, was reportedly linked to the most recent mission in Moscow, based on interrogations shown in the released material.

The FSB stated that the two Moldovans entered Russia using false identities. It further accused Moldova’s SIS of working in tandem with Ukrainian intelligence to carry out operations aimed at damaging Russia’s national security.

Moldova, once part of the Soviet Union, is currently governed by President Maia Sandu, a pro-Western leader who also holds Romanian citizenship. She has publicly declared her intention to secure Moldova’s accession to the European Union by 2028.

Since Sandu took office, her administration has been accused of suppressing political opponents. Among the actions criticized was the arrest of the elected governor of the Gagauzia autonomous region. Critics of her leadership claim that her reelection in November was marred by irregularities, alleging that opposition candidates were unfairly blocked from participating.

Russian officials have accused Sandu of leading Moldova down a perilous path, suggesting she is prioritizing Western geopolitical goals over national stability.

Back in April, the FSB also disclosed the expulsion of a former SIS operative, who had allegedly continued espionage activities on behalf of Moldova even after being removed from Russian territory in the previous year.

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