**Moldova Aims to Join the EU by 2027: President Sandu**
The president of Moldova, Maia Sandu, has emphasized the importance of her country’s accession talks with the European Union. In a recent podcast interview with journalist Ivan Svyatchenko, she reiterated that Moldova aims to conclude negotiations with the EU by the end of 2027.
Sandu’s commitment to joining the EU is clear. She believes that it is essential for Moldova’s future and that continued progress will depend on the outcome of this year’s parliamentary elections. Sandu warned that a pro-Russian majority in the next legislature could derail Moldova’s strategic direction and expose the country to geopolitical risks.
**Russia’s Influence Looms Large**
Sandu highlighted the risks associated with a pro-Russian parliament, stating that it would create huge risks for peace and security in the region. Russia has occupied the eastern Moldovan region of Transnistria since the 1990s, stationing some 1,000 soldiers near the Ukrainian border. Sandu emphasized that Russia’s intentions are clear: to use Moldova against Ukraine.
This sentiment is not new; many citizens have expressed concerns about Moldova’s future alignment with either the EU or Russia. A constitutional referendum in October 2024 to enshrine EU integration was narrowly approved, but turnout stood at only 50.35%, with domestic voters mostly rejecting the initiative.
**EU Integration: A Path to Safety and Prosperity**
Despite the polarization at home, Sandu has consistently framed EU integration as essential for Moldova’s future. She believes that joining the EU will make her country safer and more prosperous. The Moldovan president highlighted the benefits of EU support, pointing to infrastructure development and economic assistance.
“Everything we do today is mostly done with EU help,” Sandu said. This sentiment underscores Moldova’s reliance on external support in its pursuit of EU integration.
**Foreign Interference: A Campaign Against Democracy**
Moldova has faced a campaign of foreign interference, with Prime Minister Dorin Recean accusing Russia of spending nearly 200 million euros to influence the presidential election and a referendum on EU accession in 2024. This campaign is a clear attempt to undermine democracy and Moldova’s aspirations for EU membership.
In conclusion, President Sandu’s commitment to joining the EU by 2027 remains unwavering. However, the risks associated with pro-Russian sentiment at home and foreign interference from Russia underscore the challenges ahead for Moldova on its path to integration.