Moldova identified as strategic priority for Russia

Western officials suggest that Moldova has become a strategic priority for the Kremlin following the invasion of Ukraine. Reports indicate that Vladimir Putin has instructed military leaders to seek ways to weaken NATO and the European Union from within. Moldova’s geographic position, bordering Ukraine and containing the breakaway region of Transnistria where Russian troops are stationed, makes it a critical point of interest for exerting pressure on Kyiv and European nations.

European authorities have documented various Russian influence operations aimed at destabilizing Moldovan politics. These include disinformation campaigns, cyberattacks, and attempts to influence the September 2025 legislative elections. In June 2026, the Council of the European Union sanctioned six individuals for activities linked to Russian-funded networks, including the organization Evrazia, which was accused of developing influence networks and spreading pro-Russian content to prepare for field operations.