Romania Accuses Russia of Aggressive Propaganda and "Desperate" Attempts to Derail Moldova's Path to the EU

Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu has said that Russia is ‘desperately’ trying to change Moldova's path to the EU. He said this in response to controversial statements by Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, who said that Romania was trying to ‘annex’ Moldova.

In response, the Romanian government issued a statement emphasising that Russia's ‘aggressive’ propaganda distorts historical facts and ignores current realities, and must be countered by all available means to ensure Moldova's integration into the EU.

‘The Russian authorities are desperately trying to derail Moldova from its European path through disinformation,’ said Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu. He also called on Moldovan leaders to be firm and not to be ‘intimidated’ by such tactics.

‘Romania stands shoulder to shoulder with Moldova in the realisation of the European dream,’ the Romanian prime minister added.

On Wednesday, MEPs also adopted a resolution strongly warning against Russia's continued attempts to disrupt Moldova's pro-European trajectory.

Approved by 508 votes in favour, 53 against and 104 abstentions, the text strongly condemns Russia's escalating malicious actions, interference and hybrid operations before Moldovans go to the polls to vote in the country's presidential election and constitutional referendum on EU integration.

Moldova's security services have also recently claimed that Russia has spent approximately €100 million to undermine the upcoming electoral process in order to force Moldovans to vote against closer ties with the EU.

As a reminder, on 20 October, Moldova will hold a referendum on its accession to the European Union, along with presidential elections, in which incumbent President Sandu is seeking re-election.