Moldova is breaking cultural ties with Russia. On 5 November, the Moldovan government officially approved an initiative to close the Russian Cultural Center in the capital Chișinău, known as the “Russian House", as per Nokta. 

The decision has been made following the termination of the bilateral agreement with Russia regarding the establishment and operation of cultural centers in Moldova. 

The “Russian House” in Chișinău became tool of Kremlin influence

Under the agreement on cultural institutions, a Russian Center for Culture and Science was established in Chișinău in 2009 under the management of the Russian embassy.

Minister of Culture Cristian Jardan stated that the “Russian House” functioned not as a cultural center, but as an outpost of Kremlin influence.

“This center was not truly cultural under its cover; activities were conducted that undermined Moldova’s sovereignty,” Jardan emphasized.

Termination of the deal — a response to hybrid threats

Minister of Foreign Affairs Mihai Popșoi explained that the closure of the Russian center is a deliberate political move aimed at protecting national security.

The step was taken following the fall of Russian drones in southern Moldova: in Gagauzia and Taraclia. In May, the parliamentary committee on foreign policy supported ending the 1998 agreement with Moscow.

Despite previous announcements of closure, the “Russian House” had continued its activities, holding events with participants from the Russia-backed Transnistrian region. The center’s operations are now officially terminated.

The government stresses that the ending of the agreement will not have economic or legal consequences for Moldova.

This move sends a clear signal that Chișinău is decisively breaking away from Russian influence, opting for sovereignty and European integration.