Leaders from France, Germany, and Poland have travelled to Moldova to show support for the country's accession to the EU and warn of Russia's 'relentless' efforts to undermine that ambition. The visit comes as Moldova marks 34 years of independence from Moscow, declared as the Soviet Union fell apart.
However, it coincides with critical parliamentary elections in a month where pro-Russian factions are expected to gain momentum. Surrounded by European heads of state, Moldova's pro-Western President Maia Sandu stated that EU membership is 'not a distant dream, but a project we are working on' which is essential for national security.
Sandu highlighted that the war waged by Russia against Ukraine exemplifies that 'Europe means freedom and peace,' while 'Putin's Russia means war and death.' This underscores Moldova's proactive support for Ukraine amid fears of being Putin's next target.
Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz mentioned that Moscow is attempting to disrupt efforts to achieve stability and prosperity in Moldova. Meanwhile, Sandu's party, the pro-European PAS, aims to establish a secure position ahead of the elections by underlining their commitment to stronger ties with Europe. Polls indicate potential losses for PAS in the elections, hence the leaders' visit serves to strengthen Moldova's EU accession aspirations against external threats.
However, it coincides with critical parliamentary elections in a month where pro-Russian factions are expected to gain momentum. Surrounded by European heads of state, Moldova's pro-Western President Maia Sandu stated that EU membership is 'not a distant dream, but a project we are working on' which is essential for national security.
Sandu highlighted that the war waged by Russia against Ukraine exemplifies that 'Europe means freedom and peace,' while 'Putin's Russia means war and death.' This underscores Moldova's proactive support for Ukraine amid fears of being Putin's next target.
Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz mentioned that Moscow is attempting to disrupt efforts to achieve stability and prosperity in Moldova. Meanwhile, Sandu's party, the pro-European PAS, aims to establish a secure position ahead of the elections by underlining their commitment to stronger ties with Europe. Polls indicate potential losses for PAS in the elections, hence the leaders' visit serves to strengthen Moldova's EU accession aspirations against external threats.
