The European Union is set to allocate 60 million euros (approximately $62.95 million) to Moldova for defense purposes this year, as announced by the president of the European Council on Monday. This funding aims to enhance the defense capabilities of the small agricultural nation that borders Ukraine.
During his visit to the capital of Moldova, President Antonio Costa noted that 37 million euros had already been disbursed to the former Soviet republic through the European Peace Facility, positioning Moldova as the second-largest recipient of aid after Ukraine.
The European Council consists of the leaders of the EU’s 27 member states.
Moldova, which aspires to join the EU by 2030, is actively pursuing closer relations with the bloc, especially in the areas of security and defense.
In a joint press conference with Moldovan President Maia Sandu, Costa emphasized that the 60 million euros allocated for this year is intended “to ensure peace.”
Moldova’s pro-European administration has denounced Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, leading to a significant deterioration in relations between Chisinau and Moscow.
Moldovan officials have reported instances of Russian drones breaching their airspace and have discovered debris on their territory.
Additionally, Russia maintains a peacekeeping presence in Moldova’s breakaway Transdniestria region.
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In May of last year, Moldova formalized a security and defense partnership with the EU, becoming the first nation to establish such an agreement with the bloc.
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