We must do everything in our power to protect Moldova, the country next to Ukraine that has suffered deeply from Vladimir Putin’s murderous behavior in the region. Moldova is one of the poorest countries in Europe but is desperately trying to break the cycle of political dysfunction and corruption that has been historically thrust upon them by Russia. With the reelection of pro-reform, pro-West and anti-corruption President Maia Sandu – a Harvard-educated World Bank economist – they have an excellent shot. Despite the potential severe consequences, Moldova condemned Putin’s invasion of Ukraine and has been steadily pivoting toward the European Union (EU).

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Despite Putin using every nasty trick in the book – including bribery, disinformation, cyber-attacks, and even low-level violence – on October 20, 2024 the people of Moldova voted to change its constitution to endorse the government’s decision to seek membership of the EU.