The president of Moldova, Maia Sandu, has warned that her country's independence and European future are in danger after police arrested dozens of people accused of involvement in a plot to stoke violent disorder, allegedly backed by Russia. Just days before Sunday's pivotal parliamentary elections, Moldovan police reported confiscating weapons and explosives in raids across the country. They alleged that some of the 74 detainees had traveled to Serbia for training with Russian instructors. Addressing the nation, President Sandu accused the Kremlin of pouring hundreds of millions of euros into Moldova to foster violence and spread disinformation. The Kremlin believes that we are all for sale. That we are too small to resist. That we are not a country, only a territory, Sandu declared. Pro-Russian parties have accused her of trying to intimidate them ahead of the vote. Sandu urged supporters to vote in an election where pro-Russian forces aim to shake the pro-European status quo, risking her Party of Action and Solidarity's (PAS) majority. Moldova celebrated its independence over 30 years ago with significant Russian-speaking populations, and the breakaway region of Transnistria remains propped up by Moscow. Under Sandu's leadership, the country has launched talks to join the EU, affirming its European aspirations amid persistent Russian influence and meddling.
Moldova Faces Threats to Independence Amid Key Elections
Moldova Faces Threats to Independence Amid Key Elections
As Moldova prepares for pivotal parliamentary elections, President Maia Sandu warns of Russian-backed unrest aiming to disrupt the country’s independence and pro-European path.
In the lead-up to crucial parliamentary elections, Moldovan President Maia Sandu has raised alarms about threats to her country's independence from Russia. Following the arrest of over 70 individuals allegedly involved in a plot to incite violence—believed to be backed by the Kremlin—Sandu urges citizens to vote and secure their European future. She emphasizes that Moldova is not for sale and accuses Russia of trying to undermine democracy in the region. The results of the election could significantly influence Moldova's ongoing attempts to align with Europe and resist Russian influence.
