International Relations
Interview
China’s EVs and European Disunity: A Geoeconomic Playbook
7 October 2024
25 June 2024
The effects of Russia’s war in Ukraine have heightened tensions between Chişinǎu and Tiraspol. While Moldova looks to Europe and aspires to further integrate with the West, Transnistria looks to the East and seeks assistance from Russia. The Kremlin is expected to escalate its hybrid warfare in Moldova and do anything it can to derail pro-European forces, ahead of the nation’s presidential elections and EU membership referendum on 20 October.
Moldova is ready to join the European Union and is no longer vulnerable to Russia’s threats to halt energy supplies. However, Chișinău faces multiple threats as the government seeks to secure European membership.
Amid Russia’s hybrid attacks, the accession talks that begin today are only the first of a long series of steps. Chișinău’s prospects largely depend on the success of the 20 October referendum, which will decisively shape the country’s future direction.