EU wants to strengthen support for Moldova due to threats from Russia
Illustrative photo: The EU aims to strengthen assistance to Moldova due to threats from Russia (Getty Images)
Members of the European Parliament adopted a resolution strongly warning against further attempts by Russia to disrupt Moldova's pro-European course, according to the European Parliament.
The resolution was approved with 508 votes. In it, Members of the European Parliament condemned the escalation of malicious activities, interference, and hybrid operations by Russia ahead of the presidential elections and constitutional referendum on Eurointegration, scheduled for October 20 in Moldova.
Specifically, the European Parliament highlighted the role of pro-Russian Moldovan oligarchs and the Russian TV channel RT.
Additionally, they called on the EU and member states to provide Moldova with all necessary assistance to strengthen its institutional mechanisms and ability to respond to hybrid threats.
They also specifically called for additional sanctions against political actors who destabilize the situation in Moldova.
"Against the backdrop of increasing Russian interference, the resolution calls on the Council to adopt further EU sanctions against individuals undermining Moldova’s sovereignty. MEPs also urge countries and territories hosting wanted Moldovan fugitives like Ilan Shor and Vladimir Plakhotniuk to extradite them to Moldova for trial," the text of the resolution states.
Pro-Russian activity in Moldova
On October 20, a referendum will take place in Moldova, where voters will decide whether to support the incorporation of European integration into the country's constitution.
Also on October 20, presidential elections will be held in Moldova. However, intelligence data from several countries indicate that Russia will attempt to influence the outcome and prevent the victory of pro-Western candidate Maia Sandu.
