Moldova expels 45 Russian diplomatic staff in spy row
Ukrinform
Moldova says it will expel 45 Russian diplomats and other embassy staff because of their "unfriendly actions".
This was reported by the BBC, according to Ukrinform.
"For many years we have been the object of hostile Russian actions and policies. Many of them were made through the embassy," said Moldovan Foreign Minister Nicu Popescu.
The total will be cut to just 25 - a figure closer to the number Moldova has at its Moscow embassy.
Announcing the expulsion on Wednesday, the ministry said it was prompted by "ongoing tensions and unfriendly actions" and the Russians would have to leave by 15 August.
Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said Moldova's "unfriendly step will not go unanswered".
