Moldova battles Kremlin-backed disinformation ahead of pivotal polls

As the presidential elections approach in Moldova, there has been a noticeable increase in attacks using fake news aimed at discouraging citizens from integrating with the West.

Political scientist Andrei Curararu explains that these hybrid warfare tactics are designed to spread disinformation that benefits the Kremlin. The campaign centers on instilling fears about war, skyrocketing gas prices, Russia's displeasure, and looming economic troubles, among other issues.

In a Moldovan society where Russian narrative myths are deeply entrenched, executing such operations is relatively straightforward. For instance, a significant number of Moldovans are under the impression that their economy would fail without the Russian market, even though currently, no more than 4 percent of Moldovan exports are destined for Russia.

"After Moldova signed a security agreement with France, a narrative emerged claiming that France plans to deploy troops in Moldova as part of a scheme to 'occupy Odessa,'" Curararu notes.

This October, Moldova is set to conduct its presidential elections, which will serve as a test for the country's pro-Western leader, Maia Sandu, and her policy of drawing closer to the EU. Concurrently, a referendum is planned on the proposal to enshrine the goal of EU integration as a strategic objective in the Moldovan constitution. This move is designed to ensure that any future changes in leadership do not derail the plans for integration with the West.