PHOTO // President from Paris: Security of our citizens and our country is our most important concern

The Council of the European Union has approved a financial assistance package worth 120 million euros for the Republic of Moldova in 2026, funds intended for the defense of the country and, in particular, for strengthening air defense. The announcement was made today by President Maia Sandu, directly from Paris, where the head of state is participating in the Coalition of Willing meeting, in which context she emphasized that investments in security are vital after a Russian drone carrying 40 kilograms of explosives violated our country’s airspace last night.

While in the French capital, the head of state noted that the decision of European partners to support the defense capabilities of the Republic of Moldova directly responds to the current security challenges in the region.

“Today, the Council of the European Union approved 120 million euros for the Republic of Moldova in 2026, intended for the defense of our country, especially for air defense. Last night, a Russian drone carrying 40 kilograms of explosives violated our airspace. It is an incident that reminded us once again why these investments are necessary,” said Maia Sandu.

The Coalition of Willing is a group of states, mostly European, formed with the aim of supporting Ukraine in achieving a ceasefire and a just peace capable of preventing new aggressions. The Republic of Moldova is participating for the first time in this discussion format.

Maia Sandu underlined that our country’s presence in this international platform represents a natural strategic step, as regional stability is directly linked to national security.

“For Moldova, participation in the coalition is a natural step: peace in Ukraine means our peace and security. The defense of our country and peace in the region are two parts of the same effort: to keep our people and our country safe. I am grateful to all the states that support us on this path,” concluded the President.

Through this new financial allocation approved in Brussels, the European Union reaffirms its support for the modernization of the defense and security sector of the Republic of Moldova, facilitating the acquisition of equipment intended for the protection of national airspace and for crisis management.