Moldova remains on the frontline of the hybrid war waged by Russia against democracy, with hostile actions intensifying ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections. The warning was issued by Heleen Bakker, Director-General for European Cooperation of the Netherlands, during a joint press conference in Chisinau alongside Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mihai Popsoi and representatives of the BENELUX delegation.
Bakker highlighted the growing risks of misinformation, cyber-attacks, and attempts to undermine trust in institutions, stressing that the BENELUX countries – Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands – stand firmly by Moldova:
“We see how misinformation, cyber-attacks, and attempts to undermine trust in institutions are intensifying, especially on the eve of the elections. We are here to convey a clear message: Moldova is not alone. Supporting Moldovan democracy also means defending European democracy. It is not just an act of solidarity, but an investment in our common security and European future,” Bakker said.
Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popsoi underlined Moldova’s resilience in the face of hybrid attacks and pointed to the society’s determination to defend its European future:
FOR THE MOST IMPORTANT NEWS, FOLLOW US ON TWITTER!
“These attacks are intensifying, whether in the online space, the media, or through protests financed by fugitive oligarchs. But thanks to the resilience of our citizens and the solidarity of our partners, Moldova is today better positioned to counter these threats. Our future is written here, by Moldovans, for Moldovans, and for Europe.”
The BENELUX delegation, consisting of Xavier Bettel (Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade of Luxembourg), Maxime Prévot (Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Affairs and Development Cooperation of Belgium), and Heleen Bakker (Netherlands), arrived in Chisinau to strengthen bilateral relations and deepen cooperation. The visit focuses on European diplomacy, energy security, support for Moldova’s EU integration, and development partnerships.
The officials’ agenda includes meetings with President Maia Sandu and Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu, a visit to the Radeni Photovoltaic Park, and discussions with Moldovan youth.