Russian intelligence agencies have set up training camps for mercenaries in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina to prepare participants for a coup attempt in Moldova.
Balkan Insight reported this in a joint investigation with CU SENS.
Moldovan citizens were recruited for the operation and were required to surrender their phones and passports before the training began. The preparation included, among other things, training in drone operation.
Maksim Rosca, one of the mercenaries, revealed that participants were promised a reward of $300 to $500 for completing a 10-day intensive course.
Payments were reportedly made in cryptocurrency.
According to the investigation, the training sessions were held between August 1 and 16, and again from August 22 to October 11, 2024, in both countries.
The operation aimed to undermine the presidential elections in Moldova, which took place in the fall of 2024.
The authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina officially deny the existence of training camps on their territory, but the local prosecutor’s office has already launched an investigation.
In Serbia, police discovered remnants of a camp – burned papers, traces of burnt tarpaulin, and scorched earth.
According to media reports close to the Serbian authorities, drones, goggles, Starlink satellite communication equipment, and flammable liquids were also discovered at the site.
Serbian officials have not yet issued any comments.
The instructors are reportedly linked to the Russian Wagner PMC and individuals who are under EU sanctions.
