Russia will try to influence the presidential elections in Moldova which will be held this fall, according to a joint statement by the governments of the United States, Britain, and Canada.
The three governments emphasize that they share President Maia Sandu's concern about the Kremlin's use of criminal groups to finance political activities and undermine Moldova's democratic institutions.
According to the United States, Britain, and Canada, Russian actors in Moldova are conspiring to influence the outcome of the presidential elections. In particular, they are planning to initiate protests in the country if a pro-Western politician remains the head of state. The Kremlin's people also want to cause a negative attitude in society toward Western countries and the current Moldovan leadership.
At the same time, the joint statement clarifies that the Kremlin supports pro-Russian presidential candidates in Moldova. Such politicians are now actively spreading disinformation about Sandu to provoke protests.
"We have shared the information outlined above, and additional details, with our Moldovan partners so that they can further investigate, thwart, and disrupt the Kremlin’s plans. We will continue to work closely with the Moldovan government on this," three countries said.
What preceded it
In April, the speaker of the Moldovan parliament warned the European Union of Russia's plans to disrupt the presidential elections in his country.
According to him, Russia wants Moldova to leave the European course, and therefore the Russian authorities will try to influence the electoral process.
The head of Moldova's Information and Security Service, Alexandru Mustiate, also warned of Russia's plans for the elections in Moldova.
