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French President Emmanuel Macron and Moldovan President Maia Sandu are set to sign a defense pact in Paris on March 7, according to a statement from the Elysee Palace. The agreement comes at a crucial time for Moldova, with concerns about Russian attempts to destabilize the country ahead of upcoming presidential elections and a plebiscite on EU membership later this year.
The defense cooperation agreement and road map for economic cooperation are aimed at bolstering Moldova’s independence, sovereignty, and security in the face of Russia’s aggression in Ukraine. This announcement follows a stark warning from Moldova’s Intelligence and Security Service (SIS) about Russian plans to destabilize the country and undermine its EU aspirations.
SIS chief Alexandru Musteata revealed that intelligence suggests Russia is plotting to support pro-Russian political actors with ties to intelligence services and organized crime groups in an effort to bring Moldova back under Moscow’s influence. This threat has prompted France to strengthen its support for Moldova, with Macron emphasizing the importance of security assistance during a visit to Prague.
The upcoming agreement builds on a previous deal between France and Moldova on military training, defense consultations, and intelligence sharing. The specifics of the new pact have not been disclosed, but it underscores the growing partnership between the two nations in the face of Russian aggression.
In addition to the defense pact, France is hosting an EU meeting on March 7 to discuss increased support for Ukraine and Moldova. The focus is on countering Russia’s destabilization efforts and bolstering the security of countries vulnerable to Moscow’s influence.
Moldovan President Maia Sandu, a pro-Western leader who has shifted the country’s foreign policy towards Europe, faces reelection later this year. Moldova’s stance against Russian aggression in Ukraine and its aspirations to join the EU have positioned it as a key target for destabilization efforts by Moscow.
As Moldova prepares for presidential and parliamentary elections, as well as a referendum on EU membership, the country remains vigilant against Russian interference. The SIS chief warned of potential social and political crises instigated by Moscow, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and international support to safeguard Moldova’s sovereignty.
