The United States remains a long term strategic investor and partner of the Republic of Moldova, with clear priorities in energy security, economic cooperation, and the strengthening of state institutions. U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Christopher Smith made these statements in an interview with IPN during his visit to Chisinau on January 29 to 30.
Christopher Smith returned to Moldova after his previous visit in September 2024. He traveled with Wyatt Toehlke, Senior Advisor for European and Eurasian Affairs at the U.S. State Department. The delegation also included Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Kathleen Heesch Eccles, highlighting Washington continued commitment to shared security.
During the visit, Christopher Smith met with Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu and Foreign Minister Mihai Popsoi. The officials also discussed the reconstruction of Ukraine and the role Moldova could play in this process, with Chisinau expected to serve as a regional logistical and economic corridor.
Over 35 years of Moldovan independence, the United States has invested about two billion dollars in key areas such as security, defense, and energy security. Smith said this cooperation has produced tangible benefits for both countries.
The visit focused on expanding trade and investment ties, strengthening energy cooperation, and deepening collaboration in law enforcement and border security.
Energy remains a core pillar of Moldovan American cooperation, especially after Russias full scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Smith highlighted the 130 million dollar investment in the Straseni Gutinas power line, which aims to reduce Moldova dependence on Russian energy resources.
As a result of these investments, Moldova now has access to more stable and secure energy sources and has, for the first time, started purchasing liquefied natural gas from the United States through regional infrastructure.
Commenting on reports about a possible sale of Lukoil international assets to the U.S. company Carlyle, Smith said U.S. authorities would work with interested investors. He stressed that U.S. company involvement in the regional energy sector leads to more reliable and secure energy supplies.
In the justice sector, the United States has supported reforms by providing expertise and advisory assistance, helping strengthen the justice system and institutional cooperation. Smith cited examples such as the extradition from Moldova to the United States of a person accused of terrorism and the return to Moldova of citizens wanted by Moldovan authorities.
Regarding the temporary suspension of processing certain immigrant visas, Smith clarified that the measure applies globally and does not target Moldova specifically. He said it affects only immigrant visas and does not apply to study, tourism, or travel visas.
On the Transnistrian conflict, Smith reaffirmed strong U.S. support for Moldova sovereignty and territorial integrity and expressed readiness to assist in a peaceful settlement. He noted that progress depends on the parties involved and added that some positive signals could create conditions for advancement in the near future.
The visit took place in a symbolic period for both countries. In 2026, the United States will mark 250 years of independence, while the Republic of Moldova will mark 35 years. According to the U.S. delegation, both countries celebrate enduring ties, shared values, and a common goal of becoming safer, stronger, and more prosperous.