Russia plans to undermine the European trajectory of the Republic of Moldova, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said on Friday in Brussels. He made this statement at the end of his first meeting with the foreign ministers of allied states in his new role, according to Agerpres.
Citizens of the Republic of Moldova will vote in Sunday’s polls for the presidential elections and a referendum on European Union integration. This is a crucial moment in the confrontation between Russia and the West regarding the country’s future.
When asked about NATO’s measures in light of the October 20 referendum on Moldova’s EU membership to enhance security in Eastern Europe, Rutte replied, “We are working closely with Maia Sandu’s government.”
He emphasized his admiration for her leadership, noting that she is working to build a stable democracy in Moldova capable of protecting itself, especially from the hybrid interference occurring from Russia.
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Rutte highlighted that “hybrid interference manifests in all allied countries, including Moldova.”
“Clearly, Russia aims to derail Moldova’s pro-European trajectory. We are helping in any way we can by strengthening their defense capabilities and supporting them in combating disinformation campaigns. It will ensure they remain strong enough to counter these challenges and hold free elections, allowing Moldova to develop as a free society,” Mark Rutte said, as quoted on NATO’s website.
We remind you that citizens of the Republic of Moldova are called to the polls on Sunday, October 20, 2024, for two significant votes: the first round of the presidential elections, with 11 candidates running for the presidency, and a referendum on amending the constitution to join the European Union.