Ilan Shor, a fugitive oligarch with ties to Russia, is at the center of allegations regarding Russian interference in Moldova's political landscape, particularly aimed at undermining the country's aspirations for EU membership. Accused of orchestrating bribery schemes to influence the recent referendum, Shor, who was convicted for his role in a $1 billion bank fraud, has denied any wrongdoing. Moldovan President Maia Sandu has highlighted the unprecedented foreign meddling, claiming evidence of efforts to manipulate votes and destabilize the government. Recent investigations revealed that Shor is linked to initiatives training Moldovan citizens in Russia to incite unrest, further escalating tensions in the region. Despite his legal troubles and a 15-year prison sentence in absentia, Shor remains influential and continues to oppose the pro-Western government from abroad. The Kremlin has denied involvement, calling the referendum results 'hard-to-explain' and challenging Moldova to provide evidence of interference.