"Russian House" - a russian center of science and culture, which popularized the russian language and culture, and also attracted foreigners to study at russian universities, was closed in Chișinău.
This was reported by the russian embassy in Moldova, Newsmaker writes.
The decision to close was announced by the Moldovan authorities back in February 2025. Then the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the head of the russian diplomatic mission after the wreckage of russian drones was repeatedly found on the territory of Moldova.
Why Moldova closed the "russian House" in Chișinău
After the incidents with russian drones, the Moldovan government decided to denounce the 1998 intergovernmental agreement with russia on the creation and operation of cultural centers.
The "russian House" itself was opened in Chișinău in 2009 precisely on the basis of this agreement.
After its cancellation, the center ceased operations.
What functions of the "russian House" will be transferred to the russian embassy
Despite the closure of the "russian House", the russian embassy in Moldova stated that it will continue certain areas of its activity.
In particular, as Radio Liberty reports, the diplomatic mission will continue to select foreign applicants for study at russian higher education institutions according to state quotas.
In a statement, the center noted that it was ceasing work due to the decision of the Moldovan government, and also expressed hope for the preservation of interest in the russian language, culture, education and science.
Why is the "russian House" considered an instrument of russian "soft power"
"Russian House" is one of the divisions of "Rossotrudnichestvo" - a russian state structure that promotes the so-called "soft power" of russia abroad. Through such centers, the Kremlin spreads cultural and humanitarian influence, as well as implements propaganda projects.
A similar center also operated in Kyiv. In 2021, it was closed after the National Security and Defense Council imposed sanctions against "Rossotrudnichestvo".
Recall, the Cabinet of Ministers included Moldova in the list of states whose citizens acquire Ukrainian citizenship in a simplified manner.
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