According to the United States, Great Britain and Canada, Russia is trying to influence Moldovan presidential elections and a referendum on joining the European Union this fall (October 20). The three Western nations released a statement on Thursday, the first day of the G7 summit in Italy Joint Statement out.
Russia is said to be trying to inflame social tensions in neighboring Ukraine, fostering negative perceptions of the West and smearing President Maia Sandu through disinformation and online propaganda. Sandu has been the President of Moldova since 2020. He is outspoken in favor of joining the EU, as was the majority (a year and a half ago). 63 percent) Moldovan people.
Russian coup attempt
Moldova shares a long border with Ukraine and could therefore be of great strategic value in a war with Russia. Last year, Sandu said the former Soviet republic foiled a coup attempt by Russia, shortly after Ukrainian officials unveiled Russian plans for “the destruction of Moldova.” Moscow is reportedly planning to install a pro-Russian regime under the guise of opposition opposition. President Vladimir Putin’s government has denied it.
Moldova, located between the Dniester River and the Ukrainian border, is also home to the separatist region of Transnistria. It is financially supported by Russia, which has about 1,500 soldiers in the region, while Transnistria does not share a border with Russia.
In the report, the Americans, British and Canadians apparently mention the name of Israeli-Maldavian billionaire Ilan Shor, who is on the run for fraud. Shor stole a billion dollars from Moldovan banks ten years ago: about 12 percent of Moldovan GDP at the time. From abroad, Shor is now trying to get pro-Russian politicians into key positions in Moldova, backed by Russia.
A debate in the Moldovan parliament on Thursday was reportedly disrupted by seven politicians linked to Shor. Moldovan media. Politicians stormed the dais and shouted that President Chandu (and his party) should be ashamed, following which the plenary meeting was suspended. Non-party member of parliament Vasile Polia wore a black T-shirt emblazoned with the words “Putin’s Team”.
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Correction (June 13, 2024): An earlier version of this article stated that Moldova borders Russia. It should be Ukraine and adjusted above.