Moldova, one of the world’s most militarily vulnerable countries, has received a significant boost from Denmark, which announced a donation of 50 million DKK (approx. €6.7 million) to support Moldova’s defense capabilities. The initiative comes amid growing concerns over Russia’s hybrid warfare tactics in the region.
Moldova faces Russian hybrid threats
According to the European Policy Center, Moldova stands at the epicenter of an increasingly intense Russian hybrid war. While a full-scale invasion appears unlikely due to Ukraine acting as a buffer, Moldova has been under persistent pressure from cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and political meddling.
Charlotte Flindt Pedersen, director of the Danish Foreign Policy Society (Det Udenrigspolitiske Selskab), noted that the primary threat is not traditional military aggression but rather hybrid tactics undermining Moldova’s democratic institutions. She pointed to reports from Moldova’s Prime Minister Dorin Recean that Russia allegedly spent up to €200 million to buy votes in recent elections, aiming to destabilize the pro-European government.
Denmark’s targeted support for Moldova’s defense
During a visit to Chișinău, Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen confirmed that the 50 million DKK package would finance military training, a cyber defense lab, shooting simulation facilities, and the deployment of a Danish defense attaché and adviser in Moldova.
Rasmus Hardt from the Danish Defence Academy highlighted that Moldova has long underinvested in defense, leaving it with no fighter jets, helicopters, or navy. “Moldova is in no position to counter any form of Russian aggression without external assistance,” he said.
Transnistria adds to regional tensions
Concerns are further heightened by the situation in Transnistria, a breakaway region that declared independence from Moldova in 1990. The area hosts around 1,500 Russian troops and maintains close military, economic, and cultural ties to Moscow. Recent comments by Prime Minister Recean to the Financial Times suggested Russia might even plan to deploy an additional 10,000 troops to the territory, although analysts like Hardt consider such a move unlikely due to logistical challenges through Ukraine.
EU involvement and Moldova’s European aspirations
Denmark’s contribution is part of a broader international effort to bolster Moldova’s resilience. The EU recently pledged €270 million in new investments, adding to the €197 million granted since 2021 to support Moldova’s path toward EU membership.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, during a visit to Moldova last week, underscored that membership negotiations would begin soon, emphasizing the EU’s commitment to Moldova’s security and democratic future.
As Moldova remains highly exposed to Russian influence operations, international financial and strategic support is crucial to ensure its sovereignty and stability.