Greece extradites oligarch to Moldova in $1bn fraud case

Greece has extradited Vladimir Plahotniuc, a prominent Moldovan oligarch and former senior politician, to Moldova to face charges in a $1 billion fraud case. Plahotniuc, who had been living in Greece, denies any wrongdoing. The case revolves around the alleged embezzlement of over $1 billion from Moldova's banking system, a scandal that led to a financial crisis in the country in 2014-2015. Plahotniuc, who was once considered one of the most powerful political figures in Moldova, is accused of being involved in the scheme. The extradition came after a lengthy legal process and cooperation between the Greek and Moldovan authorities. Plahotniuc's lawyers have argued that the charges against him are politically motivated, but the Moldovan government maintains that the case is a matter of justice and accountability. The outcome of the trial in Moldova will be closely watched, as it could have significant implications for the country's ongoing efforts to tackle corruption and reform its financial sector.