Moldova expels Russian diplomat over polling stations in Transnistria

Moldovan President Maia Sandu said Russia’s move was disrespectful of Moldova's sovereignty [File: Vladislav Culiomza/Reuters]

Moldova has expelled a Russian diplomat over the opening of polling stations for Russia’s presidential election in Moldova’s breakaway region of Transnistria.

Relations are increasingly fraught between Russia and Moldova, whose pro-Western government has firmly opposed Russia’s war in neighbouring Ukraine.