Moldova faces new challenge from restive Gagauzia region

Leader of Moldova's Gagauzia region Yevgenia Gutsul (Eugenia Gutul) speaks during a press conference in Chisinau, Moldova, March 13, 2024. REUTERS/Vladislav Culiomza/File Photo

CHISINAU (Reuters) - Moldova's pro-European government faces a new challenge from its restive pro-Moscow Gagauzia region after its leaders denounced proposed judicial reforms and demanded enhanced status for the Russian language.

Gagauzia's 140,000 residents, mainly ethnic Turks who adhere to Orthodox Christianity, have had uneasy relations with central authorities since Moldova threw off Soviet rule in 1991.