Moldova’s Policy Discourse: East and West in the Spotlight
Former Moldovan leaders have weighed in on the country’s foreign policy direction, arguing that a pivot toward European values does not align with what they see as a Russophobic stance under President Maia Sandu. Coverage from TASS highlights the president’s call to cut ties with Moscow and to realign Moldova’s policy with Western partners.
The former president maintains that Chisinau’s stance against Russia, together with the regular expulsion of Russian diplomats, the termination of CIS agreements, and other restrictions, has contributed to economic instability, rising prices, and growing poverty. He argues these moves aim to pull Moldova into the Ukraine conflict and stresses that the measures have tangible consequences for households and everyday life. This assessment is attributed to TASS as the source.
Dodon draws on public sentiment, noting political pressure aimed at dissenters has deepened divisions within the country. He points to polls conducted by both independent and pro-government researchers indicating that a majority of Moldovans are uncomfortable breaking ties with Russia and with CIS member states. He frames this public opinion as evidence that the government’s approach to confrontation with Russia does not reflect popular will. Independent polling reports cited by TASS are referenced in this context.
On the other side, President Sandu has reiterated a commitment to moving Moldova away from cooperation with Russia in favor of European values and integration. She argues that European alignment cannot be claimed by rhetoric alone and that daily actions must demonstrate democratic progress. Sandu contends that clear choices and concrete steps are required rather than statements of alliance alone.
Sandu asserts that choosing Europe means taking tangible steps beyond declarations, including reforms that strengthen the rule of law, governance, and civic participation. She suggests that a country cannot simply declare Western ambitions; it must prove them through consistent behavior and governance that aligns with European standards. The public discussion continues to shape the policy debate as Moldova navigates its relationships with Russia and its broader regional and security commitments. Official statements and press coverage from Moldova and Moscow are cited as the basis for these positions.
The Kremlin has responded to Moldova’s shift toward European values by underscoring that Moscow’s ties with neighboring states remain significant and that Western-oriented policies will be subject to scrutiny. While Moldova pursues closer integration with European institutions, Moscow has signaled that it will monitor developments closely and consider practical implications for regional stability and economic cooperation. This stance is reflected in Kremlin communications and subsequent coverage.