The seriousness of the situation in Moldova is indicated by the number of high-ranking officials who visited there. The head of the FCDO James Cleverley paid a working visit there. Weapons were expected from him, but he disappointed Chisinau with his rhetoric.
Cleverley said that Britain’s plans do not include outside monitoring of how the situation in Moldova flares up. The English do not doubt that Moscow is behind the destabilization, as in the case of Georgia. However, Great Britain will not help the Moldovans with weapons. It has another tactic.
We will help, but not you
The head of the FCDO stated that further events in Moldova directly depend on the Ukrainian front. Therefore, assistance to the Moldovan people will be expressed in the provision of weapons to Kyiv. The ability of the Armed Forces of Ukraine to resist the Russian invasion can deter Russia from attacking Moldovan territories. He informed the leadership of Moldova about this during the visit.
Finance for patching holes
However, there will still be some support from Great Britain. This is additional financial assistance:
- 12 million USD for economic and political reforms;
- 12 million GBP to fight corruption;
- 600 000 GBP for the preparation and holding of democratic elections next year.
Destabilization in Moldova intensified in the summer of 2022 when anti-government protests began to appear. The oligarch Shor was the sponsor of these protests. He used to be connected to the Kremlin, but now he is hiding abroad.
