The following statement was released by the governments of the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom regarding Russia's subversive activities and electoral interference targeting Moldova.
"We, the governments of Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America, are united in confronting Russia’s aggression and subversion against democratic societies. We continue to support Ukraine as it defends its freedom and independence from Russia’s illegal and unjustified full-scale invasion. We also stand firmly against persistent Kremlin attempts to use disinformation, criminal and covert activities, and corruption to undermine sovereignty and democratic processes."
The statement emphasized that free, fair, and independent elections are fundamental to any democratic society. It noted that there have been consistent attempts by Russia to influence and undermine democratic elections in favor of outcomes beneficial to the Kremlin.
"This threat is especially relevant in 2024," continued the statement, "a year when hundreds of millions of people across Europe and North America go to the polls to select their leaders in European, national, regional, and local elections."
Addressing specific concerns about Moldova, the statement highlighted warnings from President Maia Sandu and Moldovan security institutions regarding Kremlin efforts to destabilize Moldovan democratic institutions ahead of October's presidential elections and a referendum on EU membership.
"We share President Sandu’s strong concerns about the Kremlin’s use of criminal groups to finance political activities and undermine Moldova’s democratic institutions," said the joint statement. "We commend Moldova’s leaders for continuing to capably manage these threats while driving forward democratic reforms."
The governments announced measures aimed at warning their democratic partners about Russian actors' plans to influence Moldova's upcoming election outcomes. The statement detailed how these actors intend to incite protests if a pro-Russia candidate does not win.
"They seek to foment negative public perceptions of Western governments and Moldova’s incumbent leadership while degrading public confidence in Moldova’s ability to secure itself," stated the document. It further explained that Russian actors are using disinformation campaigns both online and offline.
The joint statement also pointed out past instances of interference: "For example, personnel of state-funded media outlet RT have been involved in providing direct support to fugitive Moldovan Ilan Shor for several years with Russian government assent."
In response to these threats, all three governments have sanctioned Shor for his destabilizing electoral activities. They expressed confidence in Moldova's ability to manage these threats linked to Kremlin interference.
"We are taking a range of measures as part of our partnership with Moldova," they affirmed. "We will continue promoting accountability for those involved in these schemes."
Concluding their message with a call for Moscow to respect sovereign processes: "By revealing the Kremlin’s plot, we are making it clear that we stand for free and fair elections... We urge the Kremlin to abandon these efforts."
The joint statement underscored ongoing support for Moldova amidst broader geopolitical tensions involving Russia's actions against Ukraine.
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