Over the past two years, Moldova, a candidate for European Union membership, has faced significant challenges due to threats from Russia across various aspects of public life. Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Moldova has encountered a series of crises, including errant missiles landing on its territory, a severe energy crisis following reduced gas supplies from Moscow, high inflation rates, and protests by pro-Russia factions against the pro-Western government. Additionally, Moldova has accommodated the highest number of Ukrainian refugees per capita compared to any other country.
Moldova gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, but Russia continues to view the country as within its sphere of influence, situated between Ukraine and EU member Romania. Moldovan officials have accused Russia of waging a 'hybrid war' against the country, involving funding anti-government protests, interfering in local elections, and conducting extensive disinformation campaigns to undermine the government and its path towards EU membership. Russia has denied these allegations.
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