Moldova’s Minister of Justice, Veronica Mihailov-Moraru, has denied accusations that authorities in Chisinau are delaying the extradition of former Democratic Party leader Vladimir Plahotniuc from Greece. Speaking ahead of a cabinet meeting, the minister emphasized that Moldovan institutions have acted promptly and in full compliance with both national and international legal frameworks.
“The Moldovan authorities responded without delay and in strict accordance with the law,” Mihailov-Moraru stated. “Greek authorities detained Vladimir Plahotniuc on July 22. Just two days later, on July 24, the General Prosecutor’s Office submitted a formal extradition request, followed by a separate request from the Ministry of Justice on August 4.”
She clarified that the extradition procedure is being carried out under the European Convention on Extradition, which allows a 40-day window from the date of arrest to provide complete documentation, including legal translations and supporting evidence.
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“No Delay or Lack of Involvement”
“We categorically reject any suggestion of delay or inaction,” the minister said, responding to criticism from Plahotniuc’s lawyer, Lucian Rogac, who accused the Moldovan government of obstructing the process. “The extradition file has been compiled in full compliance with legal standards.”
Mihailov-Moraru also underlined that both the Ministry of Justice and the General Prosecutor’s Office have the legal authority to manage extradition cases. She noted that Moldova has previously maintained effective cooperation with Greek authorities on similar matters.
“Greek authorities, like those of any other country, may request additional documentation. Each case is assessed individually,” Mihailov-Moraru added.
Case Background
Vladimir Plahotniuc fled Moldova in June 2019. On July 22, 2025, Greek authorities arrested him at Athens International Airport as he attempted to leave the country. Interpol Chisinau officially informed Moldova’s General Prosecutor’s Office of the arrest.
On July 23, the Athens Court of Appeal issued a formal arrest warrant at the request of the local prosecutor. Moldova’s extradition request is based on charges of fraud, aggravated money laundering, and the creation and leadership of a criminal organization.
Authorities also detained former Democratic Party MP Constantin Tutu during the same operation. During searches conducted at the airport and at a residence in Greece, investigators seized multiple identity documents—some bearing false identities from the same country.