Canada has announced a new round of sanctions under the Special Economic Measures (Moldova) Regulations, SOR/2023-109 (the “Moldova Regulations”)  targeting alleged “Russian collaborators”. These new sanctions target nine individuals believed by Canada to be associated with “influential oligarchs”, as well as six television stations that are alleged to “promote and disseminate Russian disinformation”.

These sanctions coincided with the fourth meeting of the Moldova Support Platform, which took place on October 17, 2023, in Chisinau, Moldova. The Moldova Support Platform coordinates international support for Moldova in the context of the crisis triggered by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Canada first imposed sanctions on Moldova on June 1, 2023 to “counter Russian destabilization efforts in the region, and support the democratically elected Government of Moldova”.

Our team will continue to closely monitor Canada’s sanctions regimes, providing updates to keep clients informed about important developments affecting trade and services. We regularly assist clients with the application for delisting process and subsequent judicial review of determinations (or lack thereof) by the Minster of Foreign Affairs in response to those applications for delisting. We also regularly assist with applications for exemption permits. We have significant experience in the design and implementation of sanctions-related compliance programs and internal investigations. Where breaches are identified, we work closely with clients in making voluntary disclosures and in engaging with the ensuing investigations conducted by the RCMP and Global Affairs Canada.

Authors: Stephanie Desjardins, Jack Bowness

Should you have any questions regarding these developments or sanctions generally, please contact: