Closure of the “Russian House” in Chișinău

At its first meeting, held on 5 November 2025, Moldova’s new government decided to denounce the agreement with Russia concerning cultural centers. The decision was unanimously approved and literally means the closure of the Russian Center for Science and Culture in Chișinău, better known as the “Russian House.” The country’s parliament now has the final say.

The Moldovan authorities view the “Russian House” as an instrument of targeted influence that could contribute to the spread of distorted narratives. They emphasize the lack of reciprocity: according to them, there is no Moldovan cultural center in Russia, and this creates an imbalance in cultural exchange between the countries.

Russian officials reacted swiftly to the decision. Russian presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov expressed regret that Moldova’s leadership continues on a course of antagonizing Russia. In turn, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova called claims that the Russian Center for Science and Culture undermines Moldova’s statehood disinformation and complete absurdity.

The Russian Center for Science and Culture in Chișinău had operated since 2009, promoting the Russian language and culture, supporting compatriots, and facilitating educational and youth exchanges. The agreement governing its activities was signed by the governments of the two countries in 1998.

The closure of the “Russian House” is not simply the loss of a cultural venue; it is a missed opportunity to develop relations with a neighboring country.