Kremlin seeks to install pro-Russian lawmakers in Moldova to undermine Ukraine — Sandu

She made this statement during a broadcast on Jurnal.md.

If the Kremlin manages to take control of the government, it will use Moldova against Ukraine, Sandu said. She added that Ukraine remains Moldova’s shield, and the government in Chisinau has a moral obligation to prevent Moldova from being used against Ukraine and to avoid being dragged into the war.

"We saw this unprecedented interference last year, and it is clear that Russia will try to influence the election results this year as well. The Kremlin’s goal is to change the leadership of the country to people it can control. And this is not only about the Republic of Moldova, because Russia's interests now are Ukraine. If the Kremlin succeeds in controlling the government, it will use the Republic of Moldova against Ukraine. We have a border with Ukraine that is 1,200 km long. Imagine if, overnight, this border transforms from one with a friendly country to one controlled by Moscow. Of course, there are risks for Ukraine, but at the same time, the risks for the Republic of Moldova also grow, because Russia could drag Moldova into the war," the president said.

Sandu stressed that for the safety of Moldova’s citizens and to avoid further complicating the situation in Ukraine, this cannot be allowed.

• Moldova has set the date for the parliamentary elections, which will take place on September 28, 2025.