The EU Court has declined to lift sanctions against pro-Russian politicians in Moldova.

As reported by Radio Free Europe Moldova, citing the court's decision, the EU court stated that the sanctions against Shor and Tauber are justified and align with the overall foreign policy and security strategy of the European Union. "Organizing, leading, or participating in violent demonstrations or other acts of violence may be grounds for the EU to take measures to strengthen and support democracy and the rule of law in a third country," the court's ruling noted. The Moldovan government welcomed the verdict, calling it a clear signal that attempts to destabilize the Republic of Moldova and jeopardize its European path "will not be tolerated."

The ruling can be appealed to a higher authority – the European Court.

Sanctions against Shor and Tauber were imposed in April 2023 for organizing mass anti-government demonstrations that, according to the EU, threatened the sovereignty and independence of Moldova. The country's authorities accused the organizers of the demonstrations, which were accompanied by violence, of collaborating with Russia. The EU court's decision stated that the demonstrations were organized "in the interests and with the support of Russia."

The Moldovan authorities banned the party of businessman Ilan Shor, who has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for fraud. He is currently reported to be living in Russia and has obtained Russian citizenship, yet he continues to position himself as a Moldovan opposition figure. His associate Tauber is under investigation in Moldova. Previously, they were also subject to U.S. sanctions.

The Moldovan authorities accused Shor and his supporters of attempting to interfere in the recently held referendum on joining the EU, which ended – to many's surprise – with only a microscopic advantage for the pro-European integration side. There were no mass protests following the referendum results.

Earlier, the EU court reviewed a number of complaints from Russian businessmen and officials regarding the lifting of sanctions, with some requests being granted in certain cases.