Overview

• Sergey Lavrov's comments on Moldova echo rhetoric used before Russia's invasion of Ukraine, raising concerns of a similar scenario.
• Transnistria's request for 'protection' from Russia viewed as a move towards annexation, sparking fears of Russian interference in Moldova's elections.
• Moldovan President Maia Sandu warns of Kremlin's attempts to intimidate and destabilize ahead of elections, vows to maintain unity and peace.
• Russia's historical pattern of conflict with neighbors and presence in Transnistria underscore potential threats to Moldova's sovereignty.
• Moldova's EU candidacy and efforts to integrate with the West heighten tensions with Russia, amid warnings of destabilization attempts.