CHISINAU, November 24. /TASS/. Moldova has joined the Council of the European Union’s individual sanctions against Russia, according to the executive order signed by Nicu Popescu, Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign Affairs and European Integration Minister.

"The executive order is on joining <...> the Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1767 of September 13, 2023 <…> concerning restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine," the published document said.

The decision came out after, in its report on the start of accession negotiations with Moldova, the European Commission urged Chisinau to join a number of European sanctions against Russia. The EU has blacklisted "almost 1,800 individuals and entities." They are under travel restrictions, their assets are frozen and no funds or other economic resources can be provided to them.

Earlier, Moldova joined the banking sanctions and suspended direct flights to/from Russia, whereas other restrictions were scrutinized regarding their potential economic impact on Moldova.

Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that Russia views Chisinau’s decision to join the EU’s anti-Russian sanctions as another hostile step.