Kremlin sets stage for potential destabilization of Moldova — ISW

This was outlined by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

In a recent report, the ISW highlighted that “the Kremlin is conducting information operations against Moldova very similar to those that the Kremlin used before its invasions of Ukraine in 2014 and 2022, likely to set conditions to justify possible future Russian escalation against Moldova.”

The report points out that Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, when addressing questions about the Transnistrian conflict, asserted that the United States and the European Union exert control over Moldova's government. 

Lavrov's persistent narrative indicates broader Kremlin initiatives within the information domain.

Officials from the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including spokesperson Maria Zakharova, have previously claimed that Moldovan authorities aim to economically "stifle" Transnistria, obstruct diplomatic resolutions to the conflict, and fuel internal dissatisfaction with Moldova's policies.

Analysts note that “the timing of a possible Russian hybrid operation in Moldova is unclear, but the Kremlin is setting informational conditions to make it possible soon.”

• Moldova's President, Maia Sandu, recently voiced concerns about potential Kremlin interference in the presidential elections scheduled for the fall of 2024.