On Tuesday, September 30, 2025, Moldovan President Maia Sandu delivered a powerful statement accusing Russia of attempting to manipulate the country’s recent parliamentary elections in a bid to seize control of power in Chisinau, the nation’s capital. According to Moldpres, Moldova’s state news agency, Sandu framed Moscow’s interference as part of a broader strategy targeting not just Moldova but the European Union (EU) itself. In her remarks, the president emphasized Moldova’s resilience in the face of external pressures and its commitment to pursuing a sovereign, pro-European path.
A Strategic Battleground: Moldova in Russia’s Sights
In her address, President Sandu articulated a perspective that has long been a point of contention in Moldovan politics: Russia’s interest in the small Eastern European nation is not rooted in Moldova’s resources or inherent wealth but in its strategic geographic and political position. “The Republic of Moldova is a small country, we do not have metals or other great wealth,” Sandu stated. “Russia did not want control of us, but because the ultimate target was the EU. Moldova was just a plateau from which it could harm the European Union.”
Moldova, a former Soviet republic with a population of approximately 2.6 million, sits at a critical crossroads between Eastern Europe and the former Soviet sphere. Bordered by Romania to the west and Ukraine to the north and east, Moldova occupies a unique position as a potential gateway to the EU for Russian influence—or, conversely, as a bulwark against it. Sandu’s remarks underscore the notion that Moldova’s geopolitical significance far outweighs its economic or territorial size. By seeking to influence Moldova’s elections, Russia could destabilize not only Chisinau but also the broader European project, particularly in light of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Since the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, Moldova has grappled with its identity and geopolitical alignment. The country has oscillated between pro-Russian and pro-European factions, with political parties and leaders often divided over whether to align with Moscow or pursue integration with the West. Sandu, a staunch advocate for European integration, has consistently positioned Moldova as a nation determined to break free from Russia’s sphere of influence. Her accusations of election interference are not entirely new; similar claims have surfaced in previous Moldovan elections, as well as in other post-Soviet states where Russia has been accused of using disinformation, funding pro-Russian candidates, and leveraging economic dependencies to sway political outcomes.
A Resilient Electorate: Moldova’s Response to External Pressure
Despite the alleged Russian interference, President Sandu praised the Moldovan electorate for its response, describing their participation in the parliamentary elections as “honest and courageous.” She emphasized that the election results sent a clear message: Moldova’s future would be determined by its citizens, not by foreign powers. “I believe that our example can be followed by other countries in the former Soviet Union, where Russia is trying to take control and limit sovereignty,” Sandu noted, positioning Moldova as a potential model for other nations navigating similar challenges.
The parliamentary elections, held in the weeks prior to Sandu’s statement, were a critical test for Moldova’s democratic institutions. The ruling Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS), led by Sandu, secured a strong mandate, reinforcing the country’s pro-European trajectory. The elections were closely watched, not only by Moldovans but also by international observers, given the heightened tensions in the region following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The integrity of the electoral process was paramount, as any perception of foreign interference could undermine Moldova’s democratic credibility and its aspirations for EU membership.
International organizations, including the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), monitored the elections and reported that they were largely free and fair, though concerns about disinformation and external influence persisted. Sandu’s comments reflect a broader narrative of resilience, as Moldova seeks to assert its sovereignty in the face of external pressures. The president’s emphasis on the “honest and courageous” vote underscores the determination of Moldovans to shape their own destiny, even as powerful actors like Russia attempt to exert influence.
Breaking Free from Russia’s Grip: Energy and Economic Independence
One of the key points in Sandu’s address was Moldova’s progress in reducing its dependence on Russia, particularly in the critical areas of energy and trade. For decades, Moldova relied heavily on Russian natural gas and markets, leaving it vulnerable to economic coercion. During the Soviet era, Moldova’s economy was deeply integrated with that of the USSR, and even after independence, Russia maintained significant leverage through energy supplies and trade agreements.
However, Sandu highlighted significant strides toward energy independence. “It cannot shut off our gas, and soon we will put the Chisinau-Vulcanesti power line into operation, which offers us alternatives,” she said. The Chisinau-Vulcanesti power line, a major infrastructure project, is designed to connect Moldova to Romania’s energy grid, providing an alternative to Russian energy supplies. This development is part of a broader strategy to diversify Moldova’s energy sources, including investments in renewable energy and stronger ties with EU member states.
The shift away from Russian energy is particularly significant in light of recent global energy crises. Since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war, Europe has faced unprecedented challenges in securing reliable energy supplies, as Russia has weaponized gas exports to exert political pressure. Moldova, like other Eastern European nations, has felt the impact of these disruptions. In 2022, Moldova experienced severe energy shortages when Russia’s state-owned gas company, Gazprom, reduced supplies to the country. The crisis forced Moldova to ration energy and seek alternative sources, including imports from Romania and other EU countries.
Sandu’s remarks also touched on Moldova’s economic diversification. “The country’s market is no longer dependent on the Russian Federation,” she stated, signaling a shift toward integration with Western markets. Moldova has pursued trade agreements with the EU, including the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA), which has opened up new opportunities for Moldovan businesses to export goods to European markets. These efforts have reduced Moldova’s reliance on Russian markets, which historically accounted for a significant portion of its agricultural exports, particularly wine and fruit.
A Vision for a Sovereign and European Moldova
At the heart of Sandu’s message was a vision for a Moldova that is both sovereign and fully integrated into the European community. “We want to live freely, we want small countries, like Moldova, to matter,” she declared. “The Russian narrative is that only big states matter and others must align or submit. We don’t want that.” This statement encapsulates Moldova’s broader struggle: to assert its independence and relevance in a world often dominated by larger powers.
Moldova’s pursuit of EU membership, formalized with its application in March 2022, is a cornerstone of Sandu’s agenda. The application came shortly after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which sent shockwaves through the region and prompted Moldova to accelerate its European integration efforts. In June 2024, the EU approved a negotiation framework for Moldova, marking a significant milestone in its path toward membership. However, the process has not been without challenges. Some EU member states, wary of further enlargement, have expressed reservations about Moldova’s candidacy, citing concerns about corruption, judicial reforms, and the ongoing influence of pro-Russian factions within the country.
Sandu’s leadership has been defined by her commitment to aligning Moldova with European values, including democracy, rule of law, and economic transparency. Since taking office in 2020, she has prioritized anti-corruption measures and institutional reforms to bring Moldova closer to EU standards. These efforts have not been universally welcomed domestically, as pro-Russian parties and oligarchs with ties to Moscow have resisted reforms that threaten their influence. The parliamentary elections, however, demonstrated strong public support for Sandu’s vision, with voters endorsing her party’s pro-European platform.
Moldova’s Role in a Changing Geopolitical Landscape
Sandu’s remarks also positioned Moldova as a potential leader among post-Soviet states seeking to resist Russian influence. By citing Moldova as an example for others, she highlighted the broader implications of Moldova’s struggle for sovereignty. Countries like Georgia and Ukraine, which have also faced Russian aggression and interference, share similar aspirations for closer ties with the West. Moldova’s success in navigating these challenges could serve as a blueprint for other nations in the region.
The president’s call for the EU to strengthen its resilience reflects an understanding that Moldova’s fate is intertwined with that of Europe as a whole. Russia’s actions in Moldova, Ukraine, and elsewhere are part of a broader strategy to undermine the EU’s unity and influence. By supporting Moldova’s integration, the EU can send a message that it stands with smaller nations in their pursuit of sovereignty and self-determination.
The Transnistria issue remains a significant challenge in this context. The breakaway region, which declared independence from Moldova in 1990 with Russian backing, continues to host Russian troops and serves as a potential flashpoint for conflict. While Sandu did not directly address Transnistria in her recent remarks, the region’s unresolved status complicates Moldova’s path to EU membership and its efforts to fully assert its sovereignty. Any escalation in Transnistria could provide Russia with a pretext to further meddle in Moldovan affairs, making the region a critical factor in the country’s geopolitical strategy.
The EU’s Role and Moldova’s Future
Moldova’s pursuit of EU membership is not merely a political goal but a transformative project that touches every aspect of the country’s society and economy. The EU has provided significant financial and technical assistance to Moldova, supporting reforms in areas such as governance, energy, and infrastructure. However, the road to membership is long and fraught with challenges, including the need to address internal divisions and external pressures.
Sandu’s leadership has been instrumental in keeping Moldova on this path, but her government faces ongoing tests. Domestically, she must navigate a polarized political landscape, where pro-Russian forces continue to challenge her agenda. Externally, Moldova remains vulnerable to Russian disinformation campaigns, cyberattacks, and economic pressures, even as it reduces its dependence on Moscow.
The EU, for its part, must balance its support for Moldova with the broader dynamics of enlargement. The accession of new members, particularly from the Eastern Partnership region, raises questions about the EU’s capacity to integrate diverse economies and political systems. Moldova’s small size and relative poverty make it an appealing candidate in some respects, as it poses fewer challenges than larger countries like Ukraine. However, its proximity to Russia and the unresolved Transnistria conflict add complexity to the process.
Conclusion: A Small Nation with Big Ambitions
President Maia Sandu’s accusations of Russian election interference underscore the high stakes of Moldova’s ongoing struggle for sovereignty and European integration. By framing Moldova as a “plateau” for Russia’s ambitions against the EU, Sandu highlighted the country’s critical role in the broader geopolitical contest between East and West. Her emphasis on Moldova’s energy and economic independence reflects a pragmatic approach to reducing Russian leverage, while her vision of a free and sovereign Moldova resonates with citizens who have repeatedly affirmed their support for a pro-European future.
As Moldova continues its journey toward EU membership, it faces both opportunities and challenges. The parliamentary elections, described by Sandu as a triumph of democratic will, have strengthened her mandate to pursue reforms and integration. However, the specter of Russian interference looms large, as does the unresolved question of Transnistria. For Moldova to succeed, it will need continued support from the EU and a steadfast commitment to its domestic agenda.
In a world where larger powers often dominate the narrative, Sandu’s message is clear: small countries like Moldova matter. By asserting its sovereignty and aligning with the EU, Moldova is not only shaping its own future but also contributing to the resilience of the European project. As Sandu herself stated, “We want to live freely.” For Moldova, that vision is both a challenge and a promise—one that will define the nation’s trajectory in the years to come.