Moldova Warns of Fines for Wearing St George’s Ribbons on 9 May

The Moldovan authorities reminded that fines had been imposed for wearing St George’s ribbons because they were considered one of the symbols of the Russian aggression in Ukraine. Ordinary citizens will have to pay a fine of at least 4,500 lei for wearing a St George’s ribbon. High-ranking officials who decide to violate the ban risk being fined up to 18 thousand lei. The authorities urge citizens who intend to participate in the rallies organized on 9 May to observe public order and not to bring weapons or other prohibited items. ‘We ask to avoid any political and provocative messages and conflict situations or appeals that may provoke aggression or violent actions. Also, we urge citizens not to bring weapons, prohibited means or suspicious objects that may pose some kind of danger to others,’ the head of the Inspectorate General of Police, Viorel Cernăuțeanu, said. Individuals can be fined from 4,500 to 9,000 thousand lei or sentenced to community service for wearing a St George ribbon. For people holding responsible positions, the fines start from 9,000 lei and go up to 18,000 lei. According to the data of the Police Inspectorate General, last year the amount of fines issued for wearing the two-color ribbon reached 590 thousand lei. On 9 May, two events will take place in Chisinau - the government will organize a demonstration on the Great National Assembly Square in honor of Europe Day, and a rally on Victory Day will be held at the Eternity Memorial.