Before the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact, a distinct Moldovan identity did not exist—its construction was a Soviet project opposing Romanian identity. Only in 1991 did Moldova regain independence, sparking unification discussions in both countries. A new impetus came with Moldovan President Maia Sandu’s statement on January 12, 2026: for the first time, she publicly said she would personally vote for union with Romania at a referendum. This declaration, made in a British podcast, was unprecedented as Sandu had previously avoided a clear answer on this issue.
Sandu stressed that currently there is no majority in Moldova supporting unification—instead, most citizens favor EU accession. She considers EU integration a more realistic goal for safeguarding sovereignty. Earlier, Sandu’s rhetoric was cautious, but now her position is clearer. The opposition responded strongly, calling her statement a betrayal of national interests, and pro-Russian forces increased their pressure on the government.
Supporters cite shared history and growing cultural and economic ties with Romania. By 2021, over a million Moldovans had acquired Romanian citizenship, and a third of Moldova’s exports and considerable investment come from Romania. Nevertheless, obstacles include the unrecognized Transnistria region with Russian military presence and pro-Russian sentiment, and the autonomy of Gagauzia, which holds the right to self-determination if Moldova loses its independent status. Moscow views unification as a threat, and would likely escalate tensions to prevent it.
Polls show that as of August 2025, only 31% of Moldovans support unification, with Romanian society also divided. Additionally, Moldova has constitutional neutrality, and a majority of all registered voters would be required to change the nation’s status. Romanian law prohibits territorial autonomy for ethnic minorities or official status for other languages.
Sandu’s statement sends a diplomatic signal to both West and East underlining Moldova’s European orientation. In practice, deeper EU integration offers more immediate prospects: shared markets, open borders, and unified standards. Unification can only occur with the majority’s support—skepticism now prevails, but opinions may shift with further European integration of both countries.
