Moldova's President Alarms Citizens Over Russian Threats Ahead of Critical Vote

Mon Oct 20 2025 23:14:28 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Ahead of Moldova's crucial parliamentary elections, President Maia Sandu warns that Russian-backed plots to destabilize the country may threaten its independence and European aspirations.

In a dramatic warning, Moldovan President Maia Sandu highlighted the threat to her country’s independence and future in Europe, following police raids leading to the arrest of 74 individuals allegedly involved in a Russian-backed plot. With parliamentary elections approaching, Sandu accused the Kremlin of trying to incite chaos in Moldova. She implored citizens to cast their votes for democracy and resist external pressures. Amidst these tensions, the political landscape remains precarious, especially with pro-Russian factions gaining traction.

The president of Moldova Maia Sandu has warned that her country's independence and European future are in danger following police action against a suspected plot aimed at destabilizing the nation, reportedly linked to Russia.

Just days before a pivotal parliamentary election, Moldovan authorities revealed the arrests of 74 individuals, some believed to have received training in Serbia facilitated by Russian operatives. Authorities conducted raids confiscating weapons and explosives, as Sandu accused the Kremlin of pouring funding into Moldova to incite fear and unrest.

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 stated, underscoring the high stakes of the upcoming vote against the backdrop of Russian influence lingering over Moldovan politics.

Pro-Russian opposition parties claimed that Sandu’s warnings were aimed at intimidating voters ahead of the elections. Nevertheless, Sandu called upon supporters to actively vote, emphasizing that the choices made in the polls could significantly alter Moldova’s direction, especially regarding its ties with the EU and ongoing issues with corruption.

Following extensive evidence of Russian interference in past elections, including a narrow referendum victory in favor of EU accession, Moldovans are acutely aware of the importance of their vote. President Sandu affirmed her commitment to a European future for Moldova, labeling it as crucial for national security amidst ongoing tensions with Russia.

In light of the arrests and broader political unrest, the upcoming elections are seen not just as a political contest but as a critical juncture for Moldova's sovereignty and relationship with Europe.