Vladimir Plahotniuc recorded an audio message from behind bars after Greek judges approved his extradition request to the Republic of Moldova. The fugitive oligarch confirms he wants to return to Chisinau as soon as possible, and his lawyers are making every effort to rush the process.
“I decided to record this audio message for several reasons. First, to confirm with my voice—which many of you know—that all the posts and statements I made earlier on my social media profile are mine. They accurately conveyed my position on legal and political matters. I also want to reconfirm that I genuinely intend to return home to the Republic of Moldova.
Initially, before my arrest in Greece, I was preparing— as was already known in certain circles in Chisinau— to record a lengthy video interview in which I would express my views on many topics, after which I planned to take a flight to Chisinau. I intended to appear openly before Moldovan justice and to challenge all the accusations brought against me.
However, certain circumstances thwarted my return, and now I remain stuck in Athens.
Now, my lawyers are doing everything they can to speed up my extradition to the Republic of Moldova. After today’s court session in Athens, August 13, the ball is already in the Chisinau authorities’ court. We’ll see whether the government in Chisinau truly wants my extradition or will do everything possible to delay it,” said the former PDM leader.
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Greek judges approved Plahotniuc’s extradition request on August 13, and his lawyer, Lucian Rogac, confirmed the information for REALITATEA.MD. Plahotniuc did not attend the hearing. The Greek Ministry of Justice will make the final decision on the oligarch’s extradition.
The Greek magistrates rejected prosecutors’ request to hand over to Moldovan authorities the assets seized from Plahotniuc in Greece—cash, documents, luxury watches, and phones.
Authorities detained the former PDM leader at Athens Airport on July 22, based on requests sent through Interpol.