Moldova’s parliamentary speaker has accused Russia of spending about €400 million to influence the country’s September elections, calling this meddling an unprecedented hybrid campaign aimed at diverting the country from its pro-European path.
Igor Grosu, who also leads the ruling Action and Solidarity Party (PAS), claimed that the Kremlin used significant resources to boost Russia-friendly political parties and individuals with ties to organized crime, TVP reported.
Grosu made the statements during the 4th Crimean Platform conference in Stockholm, underlining that Moldova was subjected to “unprecedented disinformation and manipulation” during the election period.
Elections Seen as Crucial for Moldova’s European Path
The legislative vote on September 28 was widely regarded as determining Moldova’s geopolitical orientation. As a former Soviet republic and EU candidate, Moldova has come under increased pressure from Moscow as it seeks deeper cooperation with European institutions. According to Moldovan officials, the stakes encouraged Russia to increase its influence, aimed at both the political system and popular opinion.
During the campaign, reports revealed attempts to mislead voters through large-scale disinformation, clandestine sponsorship of political groups, attacks on governmental networks, and efforts to exacerbate social tensions.
Moldovan authorities did not provide complete public details on each incident, but they did state that hybrid threats had increased dramatically prior to the referendum.
Pro-EU Party Wins Despite Alleged Interference
Despite the claimed €400 million plan, the pro-European PAS won an impressive victory, gaining 55 of the 101 parliamentary seats. The Patriotic Electoral Bloc (BEP), the biggest pro-Russian bloc, finished second with 26 seats.
Moldovan leaders described the results as proof of public resilience in the face of international pressure, claiming that voters had reaffirmed their commitment to a democratic, European-oriented future.
Part of a Broader Hybrid Strategy, Officials Say
Grosu stated that the attempt to influence the election is part of a larger Russian plan aimed at undermining Moldova’s institutions and destabilizing its internal political climate.
He noted that Moscow’s strategy incorporates financial influence, coordinated propaganda, cyber operations, and efforts to exacerbate societal divisions. He claimed that the size of the supposed spending shows Russia’s prominence in Moldova’s political alignment.
The Moldovan government has strengthened cooperation with European partners in response to these threats and expects similar interference efforts to continue as the country advances through EU accession procedures.
