Moldova, Ukraine to work together – with EU – to protect people on both banks of Dniester from Russian blackmail, president says

Moldova and Ukraine will work together – and with the European Union – to protect people on both banks of the Dniester from Russian blackmail. President Maia Sandu made the statement at a press conference held in Kyiv today alongside President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Maia Sandu said she has analyzed together with Zelenskyy solutions to prevent the current energy crisis from turning into a security crisis.

The official added that Moldova and Ukraine share this vision – a future where democracy thrives, borders are respected, and no family experiences the horrors of war again.


“However, while we fight for peace, Russia continues to deliberately and brutally attack Ukraine's civilian infrastructure. These actions have taken many innocent lives and violate international law. They also endanger the Republic of Moldova, with drones crossing our airspace and their debris falling on our territory. We strongly condemn these attacks. They show why Ukraine needs stronger defense and why our region needs more security,” said Maia Sandu.


She said “Russia is also intensifying its hybrid attacks, targeting the Republic of Moldova through new deliberate efforts to destabilize our country.” According to the head of state, “after unprecedented attempts to interfere in our elections and referendum – attempts that did not derail our progress – Russia's next move was to orchestrate an energy crisis.”


“Electricity prices have risen on the right bank of the Dniester. Those living in Moldova's Transnistrian region, held hostage by an unconstitutional regime supported by Russia for over three decades, are now left in the cold and dark. This regime has long exploited the people on the left bank, leaving them unable to afford market prices for energy and essential goods, and blocking their access to the opportunities and support they deserve,” the president said.


According to her, through these actions, “Russia aims to create social and economic chaos, fuel tensions along the Dniester, and install a pro-Kremlin government in Chișinău, with the ultimate goal of strengthening its illegal military presence in the Transnistrian region and using Moldova against Ukraine.”

Maia Sandu reaffirmed Moldova's support for Ukraine's territorial integrity and independence, within its internationally recognized borders, and voiced hope that “2025 will bring peace we all desire.”


“Peace not only for Ukrainians but for the entire region and the entire continent. A peace that is just, enduring, and backed by solid security guarantees for Ukraine. Such lasting peace requires justice, resilience, and strong partnerships. This means not just ending this war, but building a future where aggression no longer has a place,” Maia Sandu said.


Maia Sandu paid a working visit to Kyiv on 25 January.