Russian Diplomatic Exodus: Moldova's Relations in Freefall

Twenty-two Russian diplomats have left the Moldovan capital of Chisinau, following a reduction in staff at the Russian embassy ordered by Moldova last month. Moldova's move to establish parity with its embassy in Moscow comes as relations between the two countries deteriorate, with Moldova's pro-European President accusing Russia of trying to destabilize the country. The reduction in staff includes technical support staff and their families, and from Tuesday, no more than 10 Russian diplomats and 15 support staff will be allowed to remain in Chisinau. Russia has warned that this action will have consequences for Russian-Moldovan relations.