The UK‘s Foreign Secretary, James Cleverly, will be visiting Moldova and Georgia to announce new funding aimed at boosting regional resilience against Russian interference. This visit is part of the UK’s efforts to work with Russia’s neighboring countries to address the threat posed by the Kremlin.
During his visit, Cleverly will announce an additional £10 million in funding to support economic and governance reforms in Moldova, as well as new funding to strengthen the security of Georgia’s upcoming elections. This move highlights the UK’s commitment to standing with the people of Moldova and Georgia in defending their democratic choices and pursuing a path of freedom, independence, and sovereignty.
The Foreign Secretary stated that few societies understand the tactics of Russian malign activity better than Moldova and Georgia. He also emphasized that the UK will not stand by while Moscow undermines their democracy, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. The aim is to reinforce their resilience against Russia’s hybrid threats and protect their democratic choices from external interference.
Both Moldova and Georgia are vulnerable to the Kremlin’s aggressive tactics and attempts to extend its control over the region. The UK’s support aims to protect their territorial integrity and sovereignty. During his visit, Cleverly will also announce plans to provide an additional £10 million in funding for economic and governance reforms in Moldova, with a focus on the energy sector.
In Georgia, the UK is already collaborating on defense and cyber security to counter subversive Russian meddling. To further strengthen democracy in the country, the UK will provide £500,000 to create an environment for free and fair elections in 2024, safeguarding them from external interference.
These new provisions build upon the UK government’s existing support to both countries. In addition to the new funding, the UK has already provided £12 million for anti-corruption and transparency work in Moldova. Efforts are also underway to help Moldova strengthen its defenses against cyber-attacks, combat pro-Russian disinformation, reform the armed forces, and tackle corruption. The UK is also providing £10 million in support for UN agencies to provide essential services and financial aid to Ukrainian refugees.
Overall, the UK’s increased financial support to Moldova and Georgia highlights the destabilizing impact of Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and the need to protect neighboring countries from similar threats. The UK is committed to standing with these countries and supporting their efforts to maintain their sovereignty and democratic choices.
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