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Moldova Parliament Bans Non-Romanian Speech, Triggers Walkout

5/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

Parliamentary leaders introduced rules making Romanian the sole working language of Moldova’s parliament, causing a walkout by pro-Russian and right-wing deputies.
The Party of Action and Solidarity approved the language limits on Thursday.
Communist deputy Constantin Staris warned the measures undermine parliamentary legitimacy and could cancel elections.
Speaker Igor Talmazan said members may speak minority languages but affirmed Romanian remains the official language for state institutions.

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Story summary

Parliamentary leaders introduced rules making Romanian the sole working language of Moldova’s parliament, causing a walkout by pro-Russian and right-wing deputies.
The Party of Action and Solidarity approved the language limits on Thursday.
Communist deputy Constantin Staris warned the measures undermine parliamentary legitimacy and could cancel elections.
Speaker Igor Talmazan said members may speak minority languages but affirmed Romanian remains the official language for state institutions.