Moldova seeks missing pro-Russian lawmaker Alexandr Nesterovschi

Moldovan authorities have issued an international wanted notice for a missing pro-Russian lawmaker. Alexandr Nesterovschi vanished on the same day he received a 12-year prison sentence for corruption. He is linked to Ilan Shor, a business magnate sentenced for his role in a significant fraud case. Shor leads a political party from exile in Moscow. The warrant for Nesterovschi was issued late on Friday. Moldovan Interior Minister Daniela Misail-Nichitin stated that efforts to locate him have failed. Authorities in neighboring Ukraine and Romania have found no trace of him. Misail-Nichitin said that all possibilities are being considered in the search. Nesterovschi was charged with accepting funds from a criminal group to support Shor's political activities. Another lawmaker, Irina Lozovan, who is facing similar charges, has also gone missing. Shor was sentenced two years ago for his involvement in the theft of $1 billion from Moldova's banking system, an event known as "the theft of the century." Moldova's pro-European government has banned parties associated with Shor, who has organized protests against the government. President Maia Sandu is working to secure EU membership for Moldova by 2030, emphasizing the country's struggles amid regional instability. She accuses Russia of attempting to undermine her government.