Moldova is actively rebranding from a small ex-Soviet, poor state caught between Russia and the West to a future EU member firmly oriented westward. Government officials emphasize EU membership as the nation's primary goal. German, French, and Polish leaders visited Chisinau to mark independence day alongside President Maia Sandu, signaling Western support. Sandu contrasted European freedom and peace with Russia's war in Ukraine, saying Russia means war and death. Upcoming parliamentary elections present a major stress test that could weaken the pro-Western governing party amid war-related economic pressures and citizen frustration.
Many Moldovans are sick of hearing these familiar descriptions of their country: a small ex-Soviet state, one of Europe's poorest nations, a place caught between Russia and the West. That's not because these statements are untrue, but because, over the past few years, Moldova's government has been throwing all its weight behind efforts to update that image. Officials say that, first and foremost, Moldova which sits between Ukraine and EU and NATO state Romania is a future member of the European Union, firmly oriented toward the West.
Election stress test But the leaders' visit is also testament to just how fragile Moldova's pro-Europe pivot feels now, a few weeks out from crucial parliamentary elections which will test the governing party and may weaken its influence. Germany's Merz told Moldovans that the fact that the country has chosen a path toward the EU cannot be 'taken for granted.' 'Things could still take a different turn,' he said, pointing to the potentially 'decisive' vote on the horizon.
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