Moldova stands at a crossroads between continuing its European development path and maintaining closer ties with Russia. This was the core message conveyed on the Insider Politic program by NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoană. Prima TV provided the platform for the discussion.
Geoană asserted that Chisinau has an opportunity to break away from the European periphery and to press forward. He emphasized that the moment to decide is now: if Moldova wants to remain on the current path, that is a choice; but if the aim is to join Europe and share in a democratic, civilized, and more prosperous future, then a clear decision should be made and fear of Russia should lessen.
The Deputy Secretary General expressed confidence that there is currently no military risk facing the Republic of Moldova. He also suggested that Moldova is confronting a hybrid warfare scenario at its doorstep, which is best described as a concerted effort to impede steps toward Europe. He noted that as soon as Moldova moves decisively toward European integration, opponents rally to try to halt progress.
In his remarks, Geoană praised Moldova’s leadership, describing President Maia Sandu as an exceptionally capable and outstanding leader who has steered the country through challenging times with resolve and vision.
Former Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean accused Russia of attempting to undermine Chisinau’s European trajectory by applying pressure on the country from hybrid attack channels. He did not specify the origin of the hybrid attacks but underscored the persistent pressure Moldova faces on its path toward European integration.
Around the same period, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, speaking at the Munich Security Conference, stated that Russia contemplates measures to strangle Moldova economically and politically, underscoring the regional stakes involved in Moldova’s chosen direction. These statements reflect a broader conversation about security and sovereignty in the region, with many observers noting that Moldova’s future increasingly mirrors Europe’s own strategic debates.
Russian presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov advised Moldovan authorities to exercise caution in assessing the Transnistrian settlement talks and in relation to the Russian peacekeeping contingent. The remarks point to the sensitive nature of peacekeeping arrangements and the ongoing importance of stability near Moldova’s borders as the country contemplates its next steps toward European integration.
As Moldova weighs its options, analysts highlight the importance of clear policy signals, credible security assurances, and sustained economic reforms to reassure citizens and international partners. The discourse underscores a broader geopolitical contest in Eastern Europe, where European accession remains a focal point for reform, governance, and long-term regional security. Observers argue that Moldova’s choice will influence not only its own development but also the alignment of broader regional dynamics with European institutions, security architecture, and democratic norms. The situation continues to evolve as political leadership, international organizations, and diverse stakeholders monitor developments and respond to new developments in the region.