Western Allies Warn of Russian Plot to Influence Moldova’s Presidential Election

On June 13, the United States, Britain, and Canada issued a warning about a Russian “scheme” aimed at influencing Moldova’s upcoming presidential elections. They cautioned of potential efforts to “spark protests” should a pro-Russian not win the election.

“We share President Sandu’s strong concerns about the Kremlin’s use of criminal groups to finance political activities and undermine Moldova’s democratic institutions. And we commend Moldova’s leaders for continuing to capably manage these threats, build resilience, and maintain peace and security while driving forward democratic reforms and reviving the country’s economy,” the document states.

“That is why today, in defense of our shared democratic values, we are taking this step to warn our democratic partners and Allies that Russian actors are carrying out a plot to influence outcomes of Moldova’s fall 2024 presidential election. They intend to incite protests in Moldova should a pro-Russia candidate not win.”

It is noted that Russia seeks to foster a negative attitude among the Moldovan population towards the governments of Western states, the country’s authorities, and its ability to join the EU. Simultaneously, Russia is attempting to undermine the population’s faith in Moldova’s ability to maintain its security and rule of law.

“We will continue to support Moldova and the Moldovan people as they manage Kremlin interference and the impacts of Russia’s brutal war against Ukraine. We strongly support Moldova’s democratic, economic, security, and anti-corruption reforms,” is stated in the document,.

Canada, the United States, and Britain have jointly shared information about Russia’s intentions with partners in Moldova “so that they can further investigate, thwart, and disrupt the Kremlin’s plans.” “We will continue to work closely with the Moldovan government on this,” the document states.