Pointing out that the world is all too familiar with the playbook by which Russia is governed, US Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian affairs Karen Donfried stressed on Wednesday that Washington is deeply concerned about reports of a Russian plot to destabilize Moldova.
The alleged plot was first mentioned earlier this week by Moldovan President Maia Sandu, who said that Ukrainian intelligence services have sent her documents showing Moscow was planning actions against her country.
In an interview with RFE/RL, Donfried noted that with a war in neighboring Ukraine and the challenge of the breakaway Transdniester region, where Russia maintains troops, Moldova is in a vulnerable geographical position.
She noted that the United States has been in very close contact with the Moldovan partners during this critical time, emphasizing at the same time the strong support for the leadership of Moldovan President Maia Sandu.
Donfried said that the leadership of Sandu, who has shown a strong desire to create a stronger democracy in Moldova and a deep commitment to a reform agenda is the key to stability while Moldova faces these difficulties.
She added that the US will continue to coordinate very closely with Moldova not only in terms of immediate difficulties related to energy and economic pressures but also in terms of reforms, noting that the strategic dialogue between Washington and Chisinau has been very productive and constructive.
Washington’s reiterated support for the installation of a new pro-Western government in Chisinau, but also for a renewed commitment to reforms, comes one day before the expected proposal for the new government led by former Interior Minister Dorin Recean, which is close to President Sandu.
Sandu appointed Recean last week, immediately after the resignation of Natalia Gavrilita, who stepped down as prime minister triggering the resignation of the entire cabinet and prompting a political crisis.
Recean’s mission will include the fight against corruption and economic growth and accelerating the cleanup of the justice system.
