Pro-EU rally in Moldovan capital amid rising tensions with Russia

More than 75,000 people poured onto the streets of Moldova’s capital to show their support for the country’s efforts to join the European Union. The pro-EU demonstration was organised by President Maia Sandu and comes amid rising tensions with Russia. 

President Sandu’s pro-Western government has accused Russia of fueling tensions by endorsing the pro-Russian opposition Sor party in Moldova. Moscow vehemently denies any interference in the country’s internal affairs.

Speaking at the rally, President Sandu pledged that Moldova will be an EU member state by 2030, stating, “We don’t want to be on the outskirts of Europe anymore.” The rally saw crowds waving EU flags and chanting pro-European slogans. 

In February, Sandu accused Russia of conspiring to overthrow her government using foreign “saboteurs” and claimed the opposition planned protests to destabilise the constitutional order. 

Moldova applied for EU membership last year, and like Ukraine, became a candidate country. The ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine has expedited their efforts to join the 27-nation bloc as EU membership provides a level of protection against potential Russian threats.