Moldovan authorities conducted 250 raids and detained dozens in an investigation of a Russia-backed plot to incite unrest ahead of parliamentary elections. The police reported that the unrest was coordinated from Russia, with suspects receiving training in Serbia. The elections are seen as pivotal for Moldova's EU membership aspirations versus closer ties with Russia. A pro-Russian disinformation campaign, Matryoshka, has intensified, spreading false claims against President Maia Sandu and her government, which faces challenges from criminal elements and vote-buying schemes.