Russian SVR claims EU plans to occupy Moldova amid ongoing influence struggle

The Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) has claimed that the European Union (EU) plans to occupy Moldova. This assertion comes amid ongoing tensions between Russia and the EU regarding influence in Eastern Europe.

The SVR"s statement reflects a broader perspective from Russia, which views EU member states as a collective aligned with U.S. interests. The agency contends that the EU is attempting to pull Moldova away from Russia"s sphere of influence, a situation that has been developing over the past 25 years. According to the SVR, Moldova remains one of the last countries in a "grey zone" of influence, neither fully aligned with the West nor the East.

Russia perceives the EU"s efforts as a form of occupation, arguing that the EU does not require military action to exert control over Moldova. Instead, the SVR claims that the EU"s strategy involves fostering a government in Moldova that is favorable to Western interests, thereby diminishing Russian influence.

The SVR"s comments also reference a "military buildup" in the region, which they describe as unfounded. The agency argues that the EU"s approach relies on political and economic support rather than military intervention, similar to the situation in Ukraine, where a pro-Western government was installed after the ousting of a pro-Russian president.

As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the SVR"s claims highlight the ongoing struggle for influence in Eastern Europe between Russia and the West.