Moldovans could lose visa-free EU access if they vote against pro-European parties on September 28. Iulian Chifu, head of the Center for Conflict Prevention and Early Warning and a professor at UNAP, shared this view. In his opinion, a shift in political direction would indicate a profound change in the aspirations and values of society, IPN reports.
Analyst Iulian Chifu warns that supporting anti-European parties would signal a shift in values and harm Moldova’s ties with the EU. “The sanction targets all citizens of the Republic of Moldova and would result in the suspension of visa-free travel to the EU and EU countries,” Chifu emphasized in an editorial published by caleaeuropeana.ro.
He believes such a vote could lead to even more severe consequences than what Georgia faced, given Moldova’s geographic position. Iulian Chifu argues that choosing a pro-Russian path would amount to a return to the “repressive Gulag” and a loss of the freedoms gained in recent years.
Principles and values matter most in tough times—when people must back them with actions and votes.
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Chifu also points out the consistent support Moldova has received from Romania and the European Union, and he questions Russia’s ability to provide economic backing. “An economically collapsed Russia won’t pay for the Republic of Moldova—it simply can’t,” he says, referencing the dire situation in the Transnistrian region.
In conclusion, Iulian Chifu states that this autumn’s election will serve as a test of sovereignty. Moldova must choose between European values and the influence of the ‘Russian World,’ and the outcome of the September 28 vote will reveal the direction the country intends to take.