Moldova's Foreign Ministry has reacted strongly to Russia's criticism, saying that Russia has no right to give lessons in democracy.

Moldova has rejected accusations by Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zaharova, who criticized the Moldovan authorities for violations of democracy. The Foreign Ministry in Chisinau stressed that Russia, which limits political freedoms and a free press, has no moral authority to criticize Moldova. The Moldovan authorities also reaffirmed that they are acting in accordance with the law and the principles of the rule of law, despite external pressure.