Moldovan President Reveals How Russia Seeks to Regain Influence Over the Country

Moldovan President Maia Sandu stated that Russia intends to restore its influence in Moldova by placing its supporters in important government positions.

Omniapres cited Sandu as saying that Russia “cannot reach Moldova” right now because of Ukraine’s resistance.

“Russia cannot reach Moldova now because Ukraine is resisting, but the political and strategic risk remains high. Moscow aims to put loyal people in key institutions, who will execute the Kremlin’s directives, instead of acting in the interests of our citizens,” Sandu explained.

She noted that such influence was already evident in past elections, when Russia attempted to control the Chisinau government to use Moldova against Ukraine, Romania, and other regional countries.

Sandu cautioned that Moscow’s takeover could turn Moldova into a “grey zone” vulnerable to money laundering, corruption, and security issues near the Ukrainian border.

Earlier, Vlad Gheorghe, the commander-in-chief of the Romanian army, stated that Romania, as a close ally of Moldova, was prepared to assist the country if it were invaded by Russia.

Simultaneously, Romanian President Nicușor Dan expressed his doubts about Russia’s intention to attack Moldova.