Moldovan and Ukrainian authorities, with support from Europol, conducted a major operation to identify individuals suspected of fighting as Wagner Group mercenaries in Ukraine and committing war crimes. The investigation, led by Ukrainian police, uncovered 85 suspects linked to Russia’s invasion. A special criminal case has been opened in Ukraine, and Moldovan authorities have begun preliminary investigations.

From February 12–13, over 50 locations in Moldova were searched, resulting in three arrests and the seizure of documents, electronics, and videos. The evidence suggests recruitment by Wagner and participation in battles such as Bakhmut and Donetsk airport. All suspects are Moldovan nationals, reportedly honored by Russian military officials.

Europol supported the operation by coordinating information exchange and real-time data analysis through a virtual command center.