“Since the Republic of Moldova clearly declared that its strategic objective (was) European integration, it has become a target for the Russian Federation”, Moldovan Defence Minister Anatolia Nosatîi told the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Security and Defence on Tuesday 25 April.
While the minister said his country was “not facing a direct military threat”, “different types of hybrid weapons” were being felt, which was putting “great pressure on the security and defence of the country”. He cited his country’s energy dependence and the Russian propaganda promoted by some pro-Russian opposition parties.
“Without the support of the EU and all partners, it is very difficult for us to face all these challenges and to maintain the stability and sovereignty of Moldova”, Mr Nosatîi acknowledged, also recalling that his country has 1,200 km of borders with Ukraine, 450 of which are via Transnistria, which is not controlled by the Moldovan authorities.
Pointing out that Moldova had recorded four violations of its airspace by Russian missiles, the Moldovan leader stressed the need to strengthen his country’s air defence. The EU is expected to soon adopt new aid under the ‘European Peace Facility’ (EPF), including for the acquisition of an air surveillance radar.
Mr Nosatîi explained that he was working with the EU on the possibility of contributing to his country’s future defence capabilities, “especially in areas that have not been covered in the past, but which have emerged as a consequence of the war”. He cited surveillance and airspace defence, combat capabilities, mobility, certain types of vehicles for transporting troops, but also logistical support and lethal capabilities, including fire support. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)