Russian House in Chișinău Closes

The Russian Centre for Science and Culture, commonly known as the Russian House, in Moldova's capital Chișinău ceased operations on July 4. The closure was announced by the Russian embassy in Moldova, which expressed regret over the Moldovan government's decision. The embassy stated that the center had long served as a venue for meetings, dialogue, and friendship, and that its work met the needs of Moldovan citizens. Those seeking assistance regarding humanitarian and educational cooperation have been advised to contact the embassy's cultural section.

The leadership of the unrecognized Transnistrian region offered to host the Russian House, aiming to "counter destructive attempts to limit Russia's presence." The Moldovan government responded that the Tiraspol authorities lack legal authority to make such a decision. It also noted that the Russian House had encouraged Moldovan citizens to study in Russia, which under current circumstances could lead to recruitment into the Russian armed forces and deployment to the war in Ukraine.

Discussions about closing the Russian House began in February 2025 after another incident where Russian drones crashed on Moldovan territory during attacks on Ukrainian ports in Odesa Oblast. On December 5, 2025, Moldova officially notified the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs of its decision to terminate the Agreement on Cultural Centres under which the Russian House operated. The agreement ceased to have effect on July 4.