Foreign ministry 18 Dec reported it had recalled Moldovan ambassador to Russia for consultations, due to “recent increase of cases of harassment and intimidation of Moldovan officials and politicians by Russian authorities” and lack of official response to “repeated complaints of Moldovan authorities”. Pro-Russian President Dodon condemned decision as “yet another provocation … aimed at undermining the strategic partnership between our countries”. Earlier in month, head of ruling Democratic Party, Vlad Plahotnuic, accused Russian authorities of “politically motivated persecution” through “fabricated” lawsuits. EU home affairs Commissioner Dmitris Avramopoulos 20 Dec said Moldova needs to step up efforts to address organised crime and corruption.

OSCE reported “substantial progress” in 27 Nov talks on Transdniestrian settlement in Vienna in 5+2 format (OSCE, Russia, Ukraine, U.S., EU, Chisinau and Tiraspol). Sides confirmed and solidified progress on several social and economic issues, out of eight issues previously identified: includes early Nov agreement to reopen bridge over Dniestr river linking territories; plus issues of freedom of movement over river, Moldovan language schools in Transdniestria, and recognition of university diplomas in Moldova. Sides also made “clear commitment” to finalise remaining issues at beginning of 2018. European Parliament 15 Nov passed resolution praising reforms in Moldova, Ukraine and Georgia, said they could be considered for membership in future. EU Eastern Partnership Summit issued declaration saying summit participants “acknowledge the European aspirations” of partners concerned, as stated in Association Agreements. Constitutional Court 31 Oct approved draft amendment to constitution to change official name of country’s language to Romanian, from Moldovan; pro-Russian President Dodon said change should require referendum.

Amid ongoing tensions between pro-EU govt led by PM Filip and Russian-oriented President Dodon, Constitutional Court 17 Oct said president could be temporarily suspended for refusing to swear in new defence minister proposed by PM. European Commission 3 Oct said it would closely monitor implementation of July’s controversial new electoral law introducing mixed electoral system. EU 11 Oct said was withholding €28mn loan tranche for reforms to Moldova’s justice system citing “insufficient commitment” to reform of sector.

Tensions between EU/U.S.-leaning govt of PM Filip and Russian-oriented President Dodon continued. Govt early Sept overruled decision by Dodon in order to send 57 soldiers to NATO-led military exercises in Ukraine. Dodon 13 Sept rejected govt nomination for defence minister, also vetoed bills passed by parliament which he said limited his powers as supreme commander; parliament 21 Sept overrode vetoes. President Dodon’s opposition Socialist Party 24 Sept launched campaign to increase presidential powers. PM Filip addressed UN General Assembly 22 Sept, called for discussion on withdrawal of Russian troops from breakaway Transnistria region.

Relations with Russia further strained as govt 2 Aug declared Russian deputy PM Dmitry Rogozin persona non grata, accused him of making defamatory comments about Moldovan officials on Russian television; Moscow criticised ban as “provocative and unsubstantiated”. Moldovan President Dodon, who supports closer relations with Moscow, 5 Aug met with Rogozin in Tehran where both were attending presidential inauguration. Russian ambassador to UN criticised report that Moldova has requested UN to discuss withdrawal of foreign troops from separatist Transnistria during Sept UNGA; Dodon also criticised request.

Despite ongoing protests since June, President Dodon 20 July signed into law bill introducing mixed electoral system, after it was approved by parliament same day. Constitutional Court 27 July ruled that referendum proposed by President Dodon to broaden his powers – specifically being allowed to dissolve parliament and announce early elections – was unconstitutional. NGOs issued statement urging govt not to ban foreign funding for NGOs involved in “political activity”. On 25th anniversary of end of 1992 Transnistria war, parliament 21 July called for Russian troops to pull out of separatist Transnistria region, prompting criticism from Dodon who called it “provocative step”, “intended to worsen relations with Russia”.

Thousands reportedly joined protests in Chisinau and other cities 11 June for and against proposed changes to electoral system which would create mixed system, with some MPs elected under “first past the post” and some remaining under current proportional representation. Based on early June expert report warning changes carry risks including vulnerability to undue influence by vested interests, Council of Europe’s Venice Commission 16 June criticised draft law. EU 19 June expressed concern over proposed changes, said they could require reassessment of Association Agreement. EU offered €100mn in economic aid on condition govt steps up anti-corruption reforms.

President Dodon 3 April signed memorandum of cooperation with Eurasian Economic Union, prompting criticism from PM Filip who said it aimed to undermine relations with EU. Senior EU official 19 April said bloc expects Moldova to “fully comply with its obligations” under its association and trade agreements with EU.

Newly-elected President Dodon met with Russian President Putin and during Moscow visit 17 Jan, reportedly suggested he wanted to abandon 2014 Association Agreement with EU. European Commission 13 Jan announced it will offer Moldova €100mn in aid. Dodon met with de facto head of breakaway Transnistria early Jan.

Breakaway Transnistria region held presidential election 11 Dec; vote not recognised by Moldovan govt and international community. Self-declared parliament chief Vadim Krasnoselsky won with 62% of vote; later said he would strengthen region’s partnership with Russia.