US commits €124 million in aid to Moldova to combat Russian influence

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced a significant aid package of €124 million for Moldova during his visit to the country on Wednesday. The aid is aimed at bolstering energy infrastructure, revamping key industries, and combating Russian disinformation.

Blinken, accompanied by Moldovan President Maia Sandu, highlighted the importance of the aid in strengthening Moldova’s resilience against Russian interference and supporting its path towards European integration. The funding includes €78 million for energy infrastructure and €46 million for the overhaul of industries such as energy and farming.

The aid comes as a crucial support for Moldova, a country of 2.5 million people that has been heavily reliant on Russian natural gas supplies. The energy crisis worsened in 2022 when Russia reduced gas supplies, leading to temporary blackouts due to the interconnectedness of Moldova’s energy systems with Ukraine’s.

President Sandu expressed gratitude for the US assistance, noting that it has helped diversify Moldova’s energy sources and boost its economy. She emphasized the importance of reducing dependence on Russian resources and sourcing natural gas from multiple suppliers, including the United States.

Moldova has accused Russia of waging a “hybrid war” through interference in elections and dissemination of disinformation to undermine the government and hinder its EU integration efforts. Blinken commended Moldova’s efforts in countering these attacks and reaffirmed US support in strengthening the country’s democratic institutions and decision-making autonomy.

The aid package underscores the strategic partnership between the US and Moldova in promoting energy security, economic development, and resilience against external threats, particularly from Russia.