A second Ribbentrop–Molotov Pact will not take place and will not target the Republic of Moldova, believe former Minister of Defense Vitalie Marinuta and the Director of the Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE), Iulian Groza. The experts stated on REALITATEA TV’s “Teritoria Svobodi” that, given the current geopolitical context, the EU has rejected several plans proposed for Ukraine, while NATO member states continue to support Moldova through multiple channels to strengthen its security and statehood.
“Considering that the Republic of Moldova seeks to join the European Union, the most important support should therefore come from the EU, while the United States synchronizes its efforts and helps where it can contribute more—for example, in strengthening the country’s cybersecurity. There is also a program with NATO. This support also comes through NATO, but is provided by its member states. Washington understands very well the challenges, threats, and internal vulnerabilities in our country, and the new administration will continue building its relationship with the Republic of Moldova through a strategic partnership,” said Iulian Groza.
The experts noted that there is support for critical infrastructure, cybersecurity systems, the energy sector, and for strengthening state institutions. Former Defense Minister Vitalie Marinuta highlighted that all cooperation programs with NATO help Moldova modernize its National Army and the equipment it currently has.
“Almost all neutral countries have increased their defense budgets. We have one of the smallest budgets in the world. Being neutral means being able to defend yourself. That means investing in defense and having your own partners,” Marinuta concluded.
Speaking about the potential crisis within the North Atlantic Alliance, the experts emphasized that NATO has gone through four or five similar periods throughout its existence, and each time it emerged stronger and with enhanced capabilities. In their view, the same could happen now amid the more sensitive dynamics between Brussels and Washington, triggered by discussions related to increasing and distributing defense budgets.