On September 28, Moldova will hold crucial parliamentary elections that will determine the country's strategic direction for years ahead. The Moldovan Parliament forms the government and sets the national course—either toward European integration or a return to Moscow's influence.
After failing to undermine the 2024 presidential election, where pro-European Maia Sandu won, Russia is planning an unprecedented interference campaign with a budget of up to €100 million, involving the use of cryptocurrencies, energy blackmail, and advanced AI-based disinformation tools. The operation is reportedly coordinated by Sergey Kiriyenko, deputy head of the Russian presidential administration.
Key elements of the new interference include an artificially induced energy crisis, mass dissemination of fake news, and the use of cryptocurrency to bribe voters. Gazprom fully stopped gas supplies to Moldova as of January 1, leading to steep energy price increases. In response, the Moldovan government is forced to buy resources from Romania, raising costs for citizens and creating potential backlash for the ruling party.
Meanwhile, a widespread disinformation campaign is underway—hundreds of fake news items mimicking Western media are circulating, and artificial intelligence is extensively used for deepfakes on social media. The Kremlin is also using a new cryptocurrency, A7A5, linked to Russian entities, to avoid sanctions and fund an alleged network of over 300,000 trusted agents distributing bribes between $100 and $500 each for voting against pro-European parties.
Special attention is given to the Moldovan diaspora and the autonomous region of Gagauzia, with social programs used to attract support. Estimates suggest Russia may spend up to €150 million to influence these elections and related referendums.
The Moldovan authorities and President Maia Sandu are warning citizens about all risks, emphasizing that these elections are about the nation's future and the security of the entire region. The experience of these elections will test new hybrid tools for undermining democracy and reveal Europe's ability to resist outside pressure.
