Moldova called the disruption of the archbishop's trip for the Holy Fire an act of terror.

On April 18, the opposition Party of Socialists of the Republic of Moldova (PSRM) called the disruption of the trip of Archbishop Markell of Balti and Falesti to Israel for the Holy Fire an act of spiritual terror on the part of the ruling regime.

"The Party of Socialists of the Republic of Moldova expresses extreme indignation over the unprecedented act of spiritual terror committed by the regime of [President] Maia Sandu at Chisinau International Airport against Archbishop Markell," the party wrote on its Telegram channel.

The Socialists regard the incident as "a diversion aimed at discrediting the canonical Orthodox Church of Moldova" and "the moral downfall of the regime." They accused the authorities of "declaring war on the Orthodox majority of Moldova" and demanded a public explanation from the Border Guard Service, as well as an apology to the archbishop.

"Any pressure on the Church is a crime against the people and an attempt on the fundamental foundations of Moldovan statehood," the party stressed.

The PSRM also stated that it will continue to defend traditional and spiritual values, protecting the interests of believers.

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Bishop Markel, who was on his way to Israel for the Holy Fire, told Izvestia that he was detained at passport control at Chisinau airport and his documents were seized without explanation. As the priest pointed out, all this was done purposefully so that he would not catch the flight.