Russia will again attempt to destabilize situation in Moldova in spring – President Sandu

The risks of Moscow destabilizing the government in Chisinau have not disappeared. 

The EU membership candidate Moldova expects that Russia will again attempt to destabilize the situation in the country this spring, using the situation in the breakaway region of Transnistria, Rubryka reports, citing the statement of the President of Moldova, Maia Sandu.

"We know that Russia will resume its actions this spring, trying to destabilize the situation," she said during a press conference.

President Sandu recalled that throughout this time, Russia tried to destabilize the order and government in Chisinau, repeatedly attempting to exploit the situation in the so-called Transnistrian Republic, which is not internationally recognized and is de-facto occupied by Russian forces.

"We are aware of these risks and take all measures to prevent these destabilizations. We inform citizens about these risks, as we did last year when Russia intended to overthrow the government," said the President of Moldova, stressing that the government "still has work to do; there are still vulnerabilities."

Sandu emphasized that Moldova relies on the support of its neighbor Romania and the international community.

Situation in Moldova

Earlier, the pro-Russian "Shor" party in Moldova organized protests to overthrow the current government and demanded the impeachment of President Maia Sandu. In June 2023, the Constitutional Court of Moldova banned the activities of "Shor."

Previously, Moldova's President Maia Sandu stated that Russia was bribing voters in local elections held in November.

Chisinau is trying to combat Russian propaganda. In October 2023, Moldova blocked access to 22 Russian propaganda channels.

Moldova was granted the status of candidate country for EU membership, along with Ukraine.