Russia has activated a propaganda machine aimed at undermining the upcoming election campaign in Moldova, according to the country’s security service. The Kremlin is targeting young internet users on social media platforms, trying to convince them to support openly pro-Russian party coalitions.
The warning came from the director of the Moldovan Intelligence and Security Service (SIS), Alexandru Mustață. He stated that Moscow’s primary goal is to erode public trust in state institutions and the entire democratic system. While acknowledging that Moldova is better prepared for such challenges, Mustață stressed that Russian operatives constantly change their methods.
– We are much better prepared for further attempts at interference by the Russian Federation. At the same time, we should not let up, because they do not let up. They have very large teams of specialists, very well paid, who attack us every day – said Mustață.
Propaganda shifts from Telegram to TikTok
Mustață noted that Russian propaganda activity has increased significantly in recent weeks, but its form has changed compared to the 2025 elections. Previously, Telegram was the main platform for spreading disinformation. Now the focus has shifted to TikTok and Facebook.
– Campaigns are being conducted to discredit the military sector, the security sector, the public order sector and the judiciary. The aim is to weaken trust, so that in the next election cycle citizens ask questions about whether institutions are working effectively – explained the SIS director.
The service has identified coordinated networks of accounts spreading false narratives about corruption, inefficiency and foreign influence. Young Moldovans, especially first-time voters, are the primary audience for these messages, which are designed to sow doubt about the country’s pro-European course and its EU integration process.
Prime minister resigns amid corruption scandals
On July 3, Moldovan Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu announced his resignation. He stated that he could no longer perform his duties in line with his own principles. His decision is widely seen as linked to a series of corruption scandals that have shaken the country in recent weeks.
– I accepted the offer to become prime minister with great responsibility and a deep conviction that I could contribute to positive change. At the moment when I realized that I could no longer fulfill my role according to my principles and beliefs, I decided to leave – wrote Munteanu on social media.
Law enforcement officers recently detained the secretary of state at the Ministry of Agriculture on corruption charges. The arrests have fueled opposition criticism and provided fresh material for Russian-backed disinformation campaigns that portray the current government as irredeemably corrupt.
Moldovan authorities are bracing for a difficult election period, with SIS warning that Russian interference will intensify. The European Union has given a green light to Moldova’s accession process, a development that makes destabilizing the country a top priority for the Kremlin.
Źródło: Polsat News, Fot. Polsat News
