The White House has issued a warning that Russian efforts to overthrow the Moldovan government and cause destabilization are currently underway. However, the United States does not perceive an immediate military threat against the Eastern European country. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby expressed concerns that Russian actors, including some linked to Russian intelligence, are planning to stage protests in Moldova and incite insurrection against the Moldovan government. Despite this, the United States has faith in Moldova’s ability to counter this threat. Moldova has been facing protests due to rising inflation and energy costs, as well as divisions over the Russia-Ukraine war. President Maia Sandu was elected in 2020 on a promise of European Union integration and views the protests as a Russian attempt to impede that integration and overthrow Moldova’s constitutional order. While Moscow denies these allegations, Kirby noted additional intelligence had been shared with the Moldovan government to help it “investigate, thwart, and disrupt” Russia’s alleged plans. The United States intends to support Moldova’s political, economic, and anti-corruption reforms to deepen its integration with Europe.
White House claims that Russia aims to topple Moldova’s government.
