Over 75,000 demonstrators rallied in the Moldovan capital of Chisinau on Sunday to show their support for the pro-Western government's efforts to join the European Union. The rally was organised by President Maia Sandu's government in the face of what officials say are Russian efforts to destabilise the country. The conflict in neighbouring Ukraine and Moscow's interference in Moldova's affairs have created tension between the two countries, with Sandu accusing Russia of attempting to derail Moldova's European integration through propaganda and anti-government protests. Despite these challenges, Sandu remains committed to Moldova's goal of joining the EU by 2030.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola also spoke at the rally, telling demonstrators that the EU would welcome Moldova "with open arms and open hearts". Protesters called for the country's political leaders to amend the constitution to reflect its European orientation.
However, the leader of the pro-Russian opposition Shor party, Ilan Shor, held rival protests in several cities via video link. Shor, who has been sanctioned by the US as an agent of Russian influence in Moldova, was recently sentenced to 15 years in jail in absentia for his role in the 2014 theft of $1 billion from Moldovan banks.
Despite the opposition's efforts, the rally was a powerful display of Moldova's determination to pursue its European integration goals and resist Russian interference.