Moldova announces start of pro-Russian protests

Igor Dodon announced his intention to launch mass protests against the current government at the end of January.

Former President of Moldova and leader of the pro-Russian Party of Socialists (PSRM) Igor Dodon announced the start of a series of protests against the current government, the Newsmaker publication reported.

The first action is scheduled for Saturday, February 22, at 11:00 a.m. near the presidential administration building, the politician said in an interview. Dodon specified that the protests will be open to all citizens, regardless of their political views.

"We will organize a protest without flags, where anyone can come. This is just the beginning. We will hold other actions, especially when it gets warmer and more people are ready to take to the streets. The protest will take place on a weekend, because it is more convenient for many, including our colleagues from the regions," the PSRM leader said.

Dodon announced his intention to launch mass protests against the current government in late January. At the same time, he called on the opposition to unite, noting that negotiations were already underway with some political forces to agree on a common order for the protests.

Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu called the protests announced by the PSRM part of "Russia's plan to destabilize Moldova."

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Moldova announced the closure of the Russian Cultural Center located in Chisinau.