Sandu: Russia Will Remain Major Threat to Europe Even After Ukraine War Ends

Moldovan President Maia Sandu has cautioned that Russia will continue to pose a significant threat to Europe even after the conclusion of the Ukraine war. This warning was made at the fifth annual Helsinki Security Forum, where Sandu emphasized that Europe must bolster its military strength, expand the EU, and recognize Ukraine as a crucial component of the continent's future security.

Sandu outlined Moldova's experience with Russian hybrid warfare, which includes political financing, voter bribery, cyberattacks, disinformation, energy pressure, and violations of Moldovan airspace. Moldova's peace today is attributed to the resilience of Ukrainians and the support from friends of Ukraine. Sandu argued that Moldova's small size makes it crucial for protecting Ukraine's southwestern flank, as Russia could potentially gain political control over the country.

A wide-ranging Russian campaign against Moldova has intensified, particularly around elections, which has involved energy blackmail, illicit financial support, attempts to bribe voters, cyberattacks, false bomb threats, and extensive disinformation. Although Moldova no longer depends on Russian gas and trade, Sandu noted that Russia resorted to other methods when traditional economic pressure became ineffective.

The Moldovan president highlighted the importance of exposing Russian interference publicly and implementing a coordinated response from various institutions, including agencies for fighting money laundering, intelligence services, tax inspectorates, and police. Sandu also mentioned an increase in Russian drone violations of Moldovan airspace, alongside high energy prices and Russia's war against Ukraine, as immediate security concerns for Chisinau.

She warned Europe not to consider these pressures as temporary issues that will fade post-war. Sandu argued that Russia will remain a significant source of instability for many years, regardless of the leadership in Russia post the Ukraine war, and that Europe must emerge from the conflict substantially stronger militarily. Furthermore, Sandu stressed that any future dialogue with Russia should be undertaken with a strong position, unified voice, and holding Moscow accountable for its crimes committed against Ukraine.