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A secret Russian-backed network is attempting to disrupt Moldova’s upcoming parliamentary elections, local authorities and international media reports say, while Moscow has accused the European Union of plotting to “occupy” the country.
The network allegedly promised payments to participants who posted pro-Russian propaganda and disinformation aimed at undermining Moldova’s pro-European ruling party ahead of the Sept. 28 ballot, the BBC reported. Bloomberg obtained documents suggesting Russia planned to organize demonstrations, spread false information, and recruit voters to influence the outcome.
Russia has denied interfering in Moldova’s elections. Instead, the country’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) accused the EU of plotting to use NATO forces to assert control over Moldova. The SVR specifically cited troop concentrations in neighboring Romania and Ukraine’s Odessa, claiming the forces could suppress protests or intervene in the breakaway pro-Russian region of Transnistria ahead of planned November elections.
“The Euro-bureaucrats in Brussels are determined to keep Moldova aligned with their Russophobic policies,” the SVR statement said. “They intend to do this at any cost, including by sending troops and de facto occupying the country.”
Moldovan authorities, including pro-Western President Maia Sandu, have accused Moscow of attempting to buy votes and train young Moldovans to carry out violent acts during the elections. Police operations targeting the network have resulted in 74 arrests, officials said.
“The SVR’s claims appear to be a response to Moldova’s ongoing investigation into Russia-backed election interference,” said a government official who spoke on condition of anonymity.
As Moldova prepares for its parliamentary vote, the country remains at the center of a broader geopolitical struggle between Russia and the West, with both sides accusing the other of seeking to manipulate or control the electoral process.
With information from BBC, Bloomberg, and Moscow Times.
