Relato integral dos debates

Terça-feira, 8 de Outubro de 2024 - Estrasburgo

10. Reforço da resiliência da Moldávia contra a ingerência russa tendo em vista as próximas eleições presidenciais e um referendo constitucional sobre a integração na UE (debate)

  Priekšsēdētājs. – Nākamais darba kārtības punkts ir debates par Komisijas priekšsēdētājas vietnieka / Savienības augstā pārstāvja ārlietās un drošības politikas jautājumos paziņojumu par pasākumiem spēcīgākai Moldovas noturībai pret Krievijas iejaukšanos gaidāmo prezidenta vēlēšanu kontekstā un saistībā ar konstitucionālo referendumu par integrāciju ES (2024/2821(RSP)).

  Věra Jourová, Vice-President of the Commission, on behalf of the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, – Mr President, honourable Members of the European Parliament, today's debate highlights the significance of our relations with Moldova, a strategic partner and a future EU member. This is also an opportunity to recognise Moldova's significant efforts in addressing the threats and challenges arising from Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, and to address Russia's direct attempts to destabilise the country.

Moldova and its people are showing that they have what it takes to prevail. Our relations with Moldova are at an all time high, despite the threats to its democracy from Russia. Moldova's commitment to the EU accession path has been remarkable, culminating in the opening of accession negotiations in June. Moldova must seize the momentum to continue implementing reforms. Today's debate provides a valuable opportunity for us to send a clear message: Moldova can count on our support on its reform journey.

As the presidential elections and the referendum on EU accession approach, we can clearly see Russia intensifying its hybrid attacks on Moldova's democracy and stability. Moscow's objective remains unchanged: to derail Moldova's efforts towards EU integration and push the country back into its sphere of influence. A key part of this strategy is Russia's disinformation campaign, which is specifically targeting the referendum to discredit the government's pro-EU policies by falsely portraying a lack of popular support for European integration. Moscow's malicious activities aim at exploiting differences in Moldova's society, spreading propaganda among the Russian speakers and trying to leverage the ambitions of the Transnistrian region and Gagauzia against the central authorities.

To help Moldova strengthen its resilience and to help its institutions to effectively tackle these challenges, the EU has substantially increased its support. The EU's security and defence cooperation has reached a new level with the establishment of the security and defence partnership. Moldova was the first country to sign a security and defence partnership with the European Union. This partnership offers a robust political framework to enhance our existing cooperation and explore further engagement opportunities.

Since last year, the EU Partnership Mission has been assisting Moldovan institutions in resilience-building. With the upcoming elections and referendum, the Mission provides targeted support to enhance cybersecurity and to combat illegal financial flows, as well as foreign information manipulation and interference.

Under the European Peace Facility, the EU has allocated EUR 137 million to strengthen Moldova's armed forces since 2021, making Moldova the second largest recipient of bilateral European Peace Facility support after Ukraine. In addition, in 2023, the EU established a sanctions regime targeting those who seek to destabilise Moldova. Two rounds of listings have been adopted so far.

Last but not least, when it comes to the Transnistrian region, it is important to stress that Moldova's European future cannot be taken hostage by the unresolved conflict. While EU accession and conflict settlement are two different processes, all efforts must be made to ensure that the entire population of Moldova, including those in the Transnistrian region, fully benefits from EU integration.

  Siegfried Mureşan, on behalf of the PPE Group. – Mr President, Commissioner, dear colleagues, over the course of the last three years, the Republic of Moldova has made remarkable progress on its path towards European integration. The people of Moldova have spoken clearly in previous presidential and parliamentary elections in saying they want the country to reform, to modernise, and they have said clearly they see European integration as the country's guarantor for stability and for a perspective of prosperity.

Together with Moldovan authorities, in the past three years we have managed to make sure that the Republic of Moldova becomes an EU candidate country. It has fulfilled all of the recommendations put forward by the European Commission in terms of starting reform processes, particularly fighting against corruption, fighting against money laundering, strengthening the judiciary, strengthening the public administration. Based on these achievements by the side of the Republic of Moldova, we have managed to decide together as the European institutions and the Council has confirmed this unanimously, that the Republic of Moldova is ready to start EU accession negotiations.

What happens in the Republic of Moldova matters to us within the European Union, because the Republic of Moldova is a neighbouring state of the European Union, and we can only be safe and stable inside the borders of the European Union if our neighbouring countries like the Republic of Moldova are safe and stable. But we also know that the Russian Federation disagrees with us. We also know that Russia refuses to accept free and democratic neighbours, because democratic neighbours only highlight how closed and undemocratic Russia is. Russia wants weak and dependent neighbours and this is why it is financing disinformation campaigns in the Republic of Moldova, also in view of the presidential elections and the referendum taking place on 20 October.

To the citizens of Moldova, we say: the European Union sees your fight against Russian interference and we stand by your side. We want the Republic of Moldova to be strong, independent, to decide on its own future. This is, in fact, the difference between the Russian way of life, which is based on fear, a way of life in which citizens are just tools in the hands of autocratic leaders. The European way of life is a way of life in which citizens are strong, independent, they decide their own future. We want for the citizens of the Republic of Moldova exactly as we want for the citizens of the EU, and we are ready to engage stronger. We are ready to support the Republic of Moldova on its European path.

  Thijs Reuten, on behalf of the S&D Group. – Mr President, Commissioner, colleagues, the future of the Republic of Moldova is in the European Union. That much is certain. Will it be easy? No. And the interesting thing is that Moldovans know better than anyone else what difficult task was and still is ahead of them. But they want it. They know what is at stake. This is a country where we can really make a difference, despite the threats, despite the Russian war of aggression in Ukraine and Russia's attempts to destabilise Moldova.

Moldova is working tirelessly on the reforms, while at the same time fencing off Russian disinformation amidst Putin's war of aggression – and Putin is also trying to keep Moldova weak and unstable. With the Russian influence pressing down on Moldova's neck, it is far from easy to move forward. That is precisely why we must reinforce Moldova's resilience and intensify our support. This involves extending the CSDP mission beyond 25 May and boosting measures to strengthen Moldova's institutions and security forces and it also means integrating Moldova more closely into European security and defence initiatives, ensuring that it stands strong against external pressure.

And despite the challenges, Moldova continues to make impressive progress towards EU accession. Their belief in the idea of Europe is strong and what I admire most about Moldovans is that they don't try to brush up their track records. They are honest about what is not completed yet or what requires more time. They are improving the rule of law, advancing judicial reform and combating corruption. They are proving their commitment to their European future.

And to accelerate that, we call for a dedicated financial instrument and for more funding to accompany the accession. Moldova's future in the European Union is in our common interest. It will be key to the stability of our continent having Moldova in our family. Let us do this together with Moldova and build a stronger, united Europe. And thanks to the colleagues for working on this resolution.

  Pierre-Romain Thionnet, au nom du groupe PfE. – Monsieur le Président, il y a plus d'un siècle, le 6 février 1918, la République démocratique moldave de Bessarabie était proclamée. Puis, très rapidement, face aux revendications des bolchéviques, la jeune République votait son rattachement à la Roumanie. Replongeons-nous dans le contexte de cette Europe issue de la Première Guerre mondiale.

Les frontières sont partout contestées, sur fond de décomposition des empires, et les nations trop longtemps opprimées aspirent à l'indépendance. La jeune Russie bolchévique ne l'entend pas ainsi. Lénine reprend à son compte l'idéologie impérialiste des tsars pour la mettre au service de la révolution. Il jette ses troupes dans toutes les directions pour mater les aspirations des peuples. La Moldavie, comme d'autres, devient une cible. Sous des prétextes fallacieux, déjà, les Russes se lancent à l'assaut de l'ancienne province et regardent jusqu'aux Carpates. En plus du soutien roumain, les Moldaves peuvent compter sur la France, qui veut alors ériger une barrière de l'Est face aux Rouges. La France ira jusqu'à déployer un régiment d'infanterie pour protéger la République moldave, lequel se livrera à d'intenses combats contre les bolchéviques jusque sur le Dniestr.

Pourquoi rappeler ces épisodes largement disparus de nos mémoires? L'invasion à grande échelle de l'Ukraine par la Russie a largement changé la donne, en replaçant l'importance stratégique de la Moldavie au cœur des préoccupations européennes. Avec la guerre en Ukraine, la Russie a montré qu'elle ne s'interdisait plus de recourir directement à la lutte armée. Au début de l'invasion, si Odessa tombait, la Transnistrie faisait figure de prolongement naturel du projet de Nouvelle-Russie. La Moldavie aurait alors été bien incapable d'opposer une quelconque résistance au puissant voisin russe. Cette guerre a révélé la fragilité de la Moldavie, et donc l'importance de ce pays pour l'Europe.

Si l'hypothèse d'une intervention militaire directe de Moscou s'est éloignée, les sources d'inquiétude restent majeures. La Russie utilise tous les moyens non militaires pour déstabiliser le pays et étendre son influence, pour le faire tomber sans combattre: de l'utilisation de la Transnistrie au soutien financier, en passant par le chantage énergétique ou la guerre informationnelle. Il est donc essentiel que la Moldavie puisse faire face à cette offensive hybride, surtout en contexte électoral. Cela ne doit pas pour autant nous empêcher d'avoir un discours réaliste et ferme quant aux résultats parfois décevants, souvent mitigés, des réformes promises, notamment en matière de lutte contre la corruption. La résilience de la Moldavie face aux ambitions russes ne peut pas être simplement renforcée de l'extérieur. Elle passera d'abord par une confiance retrouvée des citoyens dans leur classe dirigeante et dans des perspectives d'avenir réelles.

  Tobiasz Bocheński, w imieniu grupy ECR. – Szanowny Panie Przewodniczący, Szanowna Pani Komisarz, Szanowni Europosłowie! My jako przedstawiciele wolnych narodów Europy doskonale zdajemy sobie sprawę, iż każde społeczeństwo ma prawo decydować o swojej przyszłości w drodze wolnych, demokratycznych, równych wyborów. Niestety nie wszyscy na Starym Kontynencie podzielają takie przekonanie. Wciąż są ci, którzy myślą imperialnie, chcąc ingerować w demokratyczne procesy w innych państwach. I takim państwem jest Federacja Rosyjska. Choć Kreml dzieli od Kiszyniowa tysiąc kilometrów w linii prostej, nie ustają różnego rodzaju zabiegi wpływające na mołdawską politykę. Jednocześnie sam naród mołdawski i mieszkańcy Mołdawii chcą w sposób wolny i swobodny zadecydować o własnej przyszłości w imię wolności, równości i demokracji.

Wybory, które zbliżają się do nas wielkimi krokami, zadecydują o przyszłości Mołdawii i zadecydują nie tylko o wyborze głowy państwa, ale również o kierunku geopolitycznym. Czy Mołdawia będzie dalej podążała w stronę Unii Europejskiej, w stronę wolności, praworządności i równości czy pozwolimy, by Kreml wyciągnął swoje długie łapska po to, żeby destabilizować sytuację w Europie Środkowej? Nie możemy – jako ci, którzy są przywiązani do świata wartości – zgodzić się, by Mołdawia pozostała sama w tym wielkim sporze.

  Dan Barna, în numele grupului Renew. – Domnule președinte, timp de decenii, Moldova a îndurat campania neîncetată a Rusiei de a-i submina democrația și suveranitatea. Tacticile Moscovei au inclus dezinformare, atacuri cibernetice, presiune economică și sprijin pentru forțele antieuropene.

Aceste acțiuni amenință nu doar Moldova ca stat, ci întreaga ordine de securitate europeană. Dacă privim astăzi toate țările confruntate cu imixtiunea Rusiei, devine evident că Moldova a fost laboratorul, terenul de testare pentru acțiunile actuale ale lui Vladimir Putin.

În ciuda unui asalt continuu din 1992, când a fost războiul din Transnistria, Moldova a dat dovadă de o rezistență remarcabilă. Astăzi este țară candidată la aderare și primul stat care a semnat un parteneriat pentru securitate și apărare cu Uniunea Europeană.

În contextul alegerilor și a referendumului de integrare, comunitatea europeană, instituțiile sale, statele membre trebuie să ofere Chișinăului toată asistența posibilă, politică, economică și de securitate, de care este nevoie.

De aici, din inima democrației europene, trebuie să îi transmitem lui Putin un mesaj clar: această agresiune nu mai poate fi tolerată. Suntem alături de Moldova și îi susținem dreptul de a-și alege propriul destin.

Vreau să le mulțumesc colegilor din celelalte grupuri care au participat aseară la negocierea rezoluției. Este un text robust, este un text care pune și va reprezenta argumentele de sprijin în comunicarea în perioada următoare, pentru că cetățenii moldoveni așteaptă să vadă mâna întinsă dinspre Uniunea Europeană și această rezoluție sper să contribuie la acest demers.

  Reinier Van Lanschot, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group. – Mr President, as a member of Volt, the European Movement, I've been part of many elections across our continent. Volunteers are usually the backbone of election campaigns, but in Moldova, for some political parties, that backbone is Russian money. In September alone, EUR 15 million from Russia was spent on bribing people and distorting the elections – in one month! That's 30 times more than the yearly budget of Moldova's largest political party.

Russia aims to destabilise, but Moldovans are resilient. When Russia tried to blackmail by cutting off the energy supply, they quickly adapted. When Russia tried to overthrow the democratic government, the plot was foiled, and now, despite the money and disinformation, Moldova remains resilient. Not even an earthquake during a live TV interview could unnerve President Maia Sandu. Moldova's democratic resistance against Russian interference is closely intertwined with those of its neighbours. Moldovans even created a tasteful wine called 'the freedom blend' with grapes from Georgia, Ukraine and Moldova. Moldovans are working incredibly hard to get into the EU, but their civil servants are often underpaid and overworked.

As we propose with this resolution, we should help them transform their public administration with financial support, professional training and building capacity. Let's enable them to show us how fast they can go.

  Jonas Sjöstedt, för The Left gruppen. – Herr talman! Moldavien står inför avgörande vägval i det kommande presidentvalet och folkomröstningen om förhållandet till Europeiska unionen. Inför dessa vägval är det uppenbart att Ryssland aggressivt och otillbörligt försöker påverka valen som det moldaviska folket ska göra.

Mediala kampanjer sker i ryskspråkiga medier och i sociala medier kontrollerade av Ryssland sprids rena felaktigheter och lögner för att påverka väljarna. Vi ser direkta försök att påverka väljare genom att ge dem pengar. I bakgrunden finns mäktiga oligarker som agerar på Rysslands uppdrag.

Till det kommer att Ryssland utövar ett betydande inflytande över den så kallade utbrytarregionen Transnistrien. Vår uppgift är att stödja Moldavien att få verkligt fria och demokratiska val. Det är moldavierna, inte Ryssland, som ska avgöra landets framtid. Transnistrien är en del av Moldavien. De ryska trupperna bör lämna landet så fort som möjligt. Det krävs en dialog för att förena Moldaviens olika delar.

Vi erkänner de moldaviska myndigheternas stora ansträngningar för att göra det enkelt för moldavier, även i utlandet och i Transnistrien, att rösta. Vår uppgift är att respektera deras val.

Vi står bakom den gemensamma resolutionen, men vi saknar tydligare skrivningar om de sociala villkoren i Moldavien, som är mycket svåra. Frågor som fattigdom, minimilön och social utveckling måste också vara en del av diskussionen om att närma sig Europa.

Moldavien har gjort stora insatser under Rysslands illegala krig mot Ukraina och tagit emot många flyktingar. Ett stabilt och demokratiskt Moldavien är viktigt inte bara för landets framtid, utan för hela regionen.

  Alexander Sell, im Namen der ESN-Fraktion. – Herr Präsident! Moldawien soll Mitglied der Europäischen Union werden – so wie die Ukraine. Was bringt uns das? Nach dem Kosovo ist Moldawien das ärmste Land Europas. Korruption und Vetternwirtschaft grassieren. Gemessen am Bruttoinlandsprodukt ist Moldawien ungefähr so wohlhabend wie Botswana. Die Aufnahme der Ukraine und Moldawiens wird die Europäische Union fast 200 Milliarden Euro kosten. Das schätzt die Kommission von Ursula von der Leyen.

Die Rechnung sollen dabei wieder die deutschen Steuerzahler tragen. Schon heute zahlt Deutschland den größten Beitrag an die EU – fast 20 Milliarden Euro im Jahr, doppelt so viel wie Frankreich. Wir können uns das nicht mehr leisten. Deutschland ist kein reiches Land mehr. Erst kürzlich stand es in allen Zeitungen: Die deutsche Pflegeversicherung ist pleite. Eine menschenwürdige Versorgung der vielen Senioren in unserem Land ist nicht mehr bezahlbar. Was hier auf uns zukommt, meine Damen und Herren, ist nichts anderes als eine humanitäre Katastrophe, und Schuld daran sind SPD, Grüne, CDU und FDP, weil sie unser Geld mit vollen Händen im Ausland verjubeln. Damit muss Schluss sein. Deutsches Geld für deutsche Bürger, und dafür steht in Deutschland nur die AfD.

  Michael Gahler (PPE). – Herr Präsident, sehr geehrte Kolleginnen und Kollegen! Zunächst einmal möchte ich mich entschuldigen für diesen peinlichen Beitrag des Vorredners, der aus der Geschichte nichts gelernt hat – offensichtlich.

We are confident that the Moldovan authorities will properly conduct the presidential elections and the referendum on EU integration. As was to be expected, we have been witnessing multifold ways and means initiated by Russia to influence and manipulate the electorate. We know how Russia works: as they have nothing positive, attractive or even fascinating to offer from their side, they work with fake news, intimidation and cash payments to bribe voters to vote for pro-Russian presidential candidates.

A special focus is given from their side on the EU integration referendum. They have no arguments against in substance because they know that the people in all countries that have ever acceded to the European Union are better off thereafter than before. Their outrageous insinuation is that a 'yes' to EU integration means to be dragged into the war against Ukraine – by the way, a very similar insinuation to what happens in Georgia from those who want to prevent the continuation of the European path over there.

Let us therefore counter the lies and allegations with the truth, with facts and figures, and also positive emotion. Welcome citizens of Moldova to the European Union.

  Maria Grapini (S&D). – Domnule președinte, doamnă comisară, stimați colegi, nimeni nu cred că poate să gândească că nu are nevoie Republica Moldova de sprijin. Are un an special acum, referendum și alegeri. Și cred că, doamnă comisară, ați spus de o anumită sumă, bani trebuie mai mulți, dar au nevoie de altceva.

Cunosc foarte bine Republica Moldova, sunt în delegație de trei mandate, știu ce e acolo, au nevoie de funcționari care să îi sprijine și să facă training cu funcționarii din instituțiile statului. Știți bine că încă sunt probleme în justiție, și doamnă președintă, pe bună dreptate, președinta Maia Sandu spunea că nu are suficientă resursă umană pregătită pentru instituțiile din Republica Moldova.

Așadar, cred că Uniunea Europeană trebuie să se mobilizeze. În același timp, un apel la cetățenii din Republica Moldova: vă putem ajuta, dar trebuie voi să vă mobilizați, să nu lăsați prorușii să intre în imixtiune în alegeri și să vă alegeți proeuropeni, pentru că aici este locul Republicii Moldova, sigur, alături de țara mea, România, dar aici și cu toată susținerea, mergeți la vot și susțineți drumul european.

  Claudiu-Richard Târziu (ECR). – Domnule președinte, stimați colegi, Republica Moldova și-a asumat un parcurs îndrăzneț și foarte dificil către lumea democratică pe care a privit-o cu speranță timp de mai multe decenii.

Astăzi, autoritățile de la Chișinău se confruntă cu un asalt al forțelor proruse care doresc menținerea Republicii Moldova în spațiul geopolitic patronat de Federația Rusă. Războiul mediatic și informațional este inegal, dar România și Uniunea Europeană pot înclina balanța în mod decisiv de partea adevărului.

Pentru continuarea drumului european al Republicii Moldova, este suficient un singur lucru – adevărul. Adevărul este că Republica Moldova trebuie să se rupă de trecutul comunist și de Comunitatea Statelor Independente. Trebuie să desecretizeze arhivele serviciilor secrete sovietice, să procedeze la lustrație politică, să înapoieze bunurile bisericii confiscate de statul sovietic și să demoleze simbolurile sovietice. De asemenea, trebuie să iasă din C.S.I., care e controlată sută la sută de Rusia.

Adevărul este că cea mai rapidă și sigură cale de aderare a Republicii Moldova la Uniunea Europeană este reunificarea cu țara-mamă, România.

  Helmut Brandstätter (Renew). – Mr President, Commissioner, we Europeans love liberal democracy. The Moldovans are Europeans, so they also love democracy. On the other hand, Putin – there's nothing more than he hates than our democracy, and because Moldova is a democratic country, he also hates Moldova. So the Kremlin sends titushky, brutal street gangs, to hijack the pro-European government. He spreads propaganda and lies through his puppets and social media. He blackmails Moldovans with gas and electricity, and instructs his oligarchs to buy votes.

None of this will work because the people of Moldova, they have made that choice. They want to be part of Europe and not of the crumbling Russkiy Mir. They have a very strong president, Maia Sandu. I really admire her and met her a few times, and I'm very impressed. I'm confident the people of Moldova will again say 'yes' in the referendum.

Dragi moldoveni, Moldova face parte din Europa! Suntem cu tine!

We stand with you.

  Virginijus Sinkevičius (Verts/ALE). – Mr President, dear Commissioner, dear colleagues, Moldova is at a historic crossroads, choosing between embracing democratic values and European integration, or remaining under the influence of external interference and restrictive governance. With the presidential elections and a referendum on EU integration approaching, we must recognise the gravity of the moment. Moldova is not just another country under pressure; it is a battleground for the values that we hold dear: freedom, democracy and the right of self-determination.

Russia is relentlessly attempting to undermine Moldova's sovereignty through cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns and funding pro-Russian groups. They have channelled over EUR 100 million to generate chaos and doubt. And that is why the European Union and international community must intensify their support for Moldova, combating disinformation and amplifying the voice of Moldovan civil society.

In addition, we must work hand in hand with Moldova on fulfilling all accession requirements so that the country can join the EU as swiftly as possible, because this is what the people of Moldova deserve. If we fail Moldova now, we send a dangerous signal to those who want to see a fractured Europe.

  David McAllister (PPE). – Herr Präsident, sehr geehrte Frau Kommissarin, liebe Kolleginnen und Kollegen! In der Republik Moldau ist Europa allgegenwärtig. Wer im Land unterwegs ist, spürt: Im ganzen Land sind Straßen mit den EU‑Sternen geschmückt, an Bushaltestellen, als Fahnen in Kleinstädten oder auch auf Hinweisschildern an sanierten Fernverkehrsstraßen. Es gibt sogar eine Briefmarke mit dem Umriss des Landes in unseren europäischen Farben. Wer also Moldau besucht, kann gar den Eindruck haben, das Land sei bereits EU‑Mitglied. Die offizielle Aufnahme der Beitrittsgespräche in diesem Juni, nur zwei Jahre nach dem Antrag, war ein wichtiger, nicht nur symbolischer Akt. Präsidentin Maia Sandu kann ihn auch als ihren historischen Erfolg verbuchen.

In wenigen Tagen nun, am 20. Oktober, steht Moldau vor einer Richtungsentscheidung: Die Bürgerinnen und Bürger bestimmen, ob der proeuropäische Kurs fortgesetzt wird oder ob das Land in eine Grauzone fällt – eine Grauzone, in der Russland seinen Einfluss auf Politik und Gesellschaft auszubauen droht und notwendige Reformen wieder zu leeren Worthülsen werden. Wir alle wissen, Präsidentin Maia Sandu und ihre Regierung werden vom Kreml offen ins Visier genommen. Auf die massiven russischen Aktivitäten haben Kolleginnen und Kollegen in dieser Debatte zu Recht eindringlich hingewiesen.

Es steht also sehr viel auf dem Spiel. Wir müssen und wir werden der Republik Moldau weiterhin alle politisch und finanziell erforderliche Unterstützung leisten. Diese Woche wird die Kommissionspräsidentin nach Chişinău reisen, und ihre Botschaft wird einmal mehr sein: Die Zukunft Moldaus liegt im vereinten Europa.

  Kristian Vigenin (S&D). – Mr President, dear colleagues, although there are just 12 days until the elections and referendum in Moldova, the EP cannot remain silent following the scale of foreign interference in the internal affairs of the country. I would like to draw your attention to the fact that the strong, destructive role of oligarchs in the national politics in Moldova is not an exception. We have seen and still see such cases not only in our eastern neighbours, but also in central and eastern Europe. The deep and complex influence of such figures distort the political process and often deprive citizens from choosing freely the future of their own country.

I raise my concern on the possible implications of the current situation on the security in the country, as well as on the relations of the government not only with Transnistria, but also Gagauzia. We need to act responsibly, and I would advise that we work closely with the OSCE, its mission to Moldova, and respectively with ODIHR and the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly.

The EU membership perspective has created additional tools for the international community to help Moldova restore its territorial and political integrity, and we should not allow that these new tools are misused in the opposite direction.

  Cristian Terheş (ECR). – Domnule președinte, dragi colegi, existența Republicii Moldova este rezultatul pactului hitleristo-stalinist Ribbentrop-Molotov, în baza căruia țări din Europa au fost împărțite între Germania nazistă și Uniunea Sovietică.

În 1940, Basarabia, ce era parte componentă a României, a fost anexată de către Rusia Sovietică, devenind Republica Sovietică Socialistă Moldova.

În 1991, după dezmembrarea Uniunii Sovietice, această republică și-a câștigat independența, devenind Republica Moldova, pe care astăzi o dorim ca parte integrantă a Uniunii Europene.

Populația acestei țări a fost supusă unui program de rusificare pentru a-i șterge identitatea și a o subjuga prin asimilare. Li s-a schimbat de aceea limba vorbită, din română în rusă, grafia, din latină în chirilică, identitatea, din română în moldovenească.

Astăzi, cetățenii Republicii Moldova au aceleași speranțe și idealuri pe care toți cei din estul Europei le-am avut: să trăiască în libertate, democrație și prosperitate.

Prin mijloace specifice sovietice, cum ar fi dezinformarea, manipularea, măsuri active și alte mijloace specifice războiului hibrid, Kremlinul dorește să mențină populația Republicii Moldova în propria sferă de influență.

E imperativ să dăm semnale clare cetățenilor Republicii Moldova că suntem de partea lor.

De aceea, solicit includerea Republicii Moldova în zona de roaming la tarife naționale.

  Petras Auštrevičius (Renew). – Mr President, Commissioner, colleagues, the efforts of the collapsing Soviet empire, and later Russia, to weaken, divide and influence Moldova can be seen as a classic example of interference in the affairs of other states.

Unprecedented political interference, economic influence and a combination of intelligence operations are at the heart of Russian policy in Moldova. By 2020, internally corrupt oligarchy, influenced political forces and mass disinformation have weakened Moldova's statehood to the point of critical danger.

Fortunately, pro-independence political forces, along with Western partners, have made significant efforts in stabilising the situation. I strongly welcome Moldova's determination to follow the European path, to implement reforms and to pursue the well-being of the Moldovan people. Let's help our partners throw off the shackles of the past.

  Rasa Juknevičienė (PPE). – Mr President, colleagues, the upcoming election in Moldova is like the final battle for Putin. The Kremlin is openly paying voters in Moldova, trying to block the country from its future success. The biggest nightmare for Putin's Russia is the European future of neighbouring countries. He fears that if Ukraine becomes successful and if Moldova and Georgia follow the European way of life, Russians will begin to ask themselves, 'Why are we living in a country of hatred and hopelessness?'

As a Lithuanian, I want to send a message to the people of Moldova. The EU gives many opportunities for a better life for everyone. Before Lithuania's membership in the EU, we had almost the same GDP as your country does today: around 36 % of the EU average. Today, our GDP is at 90 % of the EU level. Our country has caught up with long-time EU Member States like Spain or Portugal. Dear Moldovans, do not be afraid to embrace the EU with your hearts and minds. It is our shared path as part of the same family, our European family. Leave the Russkiy Mir behind. We stand together with you.

  Vasile Dîncu (S&D). – Domnule președinte, dragi colegi, în 1940, Republica Moldova a intrat sub ocupație rusească, ca și Letonia, Estonia sau Lituania. Vulnerabilitățile de astăzi ale acestei țări sunt consecința acestei istorii și a acestei poziții nefericite geostrategic.

Moldova însă este azi în prima linie a războiului cu Rusia, alături de Ucraina, iar noi încă ne aflăm în spatele frontului.

Problemele sociale, migrația, subdezvoltarea, complică foarte mult situația. Cu toate acestea, sub conducerea curajoasă a Maiei Sandu și a unei echipe de politicieni din Moldova, această națiune eroică accelerează reformele și modernizarea, făcând progrese remarcabile.

Parteneriatul cu Uniunea Europeană este necesar pentru că ridică nivelul de trai, ajută la modernizare și la întărirea securității. Ziua de 20 octombrie este foarte importantă pentru traseul european al Republicii Moldova, iar documentul de astăzi reprezintă un gest de solidaritate pentru o națiune curajoasă, care caută să-și regăsească locul în Europa. Moldova caută să revină acasă, adică în Europa.

Mesajul nostru este unul foarte clar: dragi moldoveni, nu sunteți singuri!

  Adam Bielan (ECR). – Mr President, Commissioner, on behalf of the ECR Group, I would like to express our unwavering solidarity with the people of the Republic of Moldova. We commend their remarkable efforts in advancing democratic reforms, notably the 2022 electoral code reforms, which have strengthened the framework for the upcoming elections.

We must applaud their resilience, especially amid Russia's war against Ukraine and continuous malign actions and the interference of the Kremlin in Moldova's affairs. Despite these challenges, Moldova has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to European integration, diligently working toward EU membership.

Now we must remain vigilant. We strongly condemn Russia's repeated attempts to destabilise Moldova and urge the Russian authorities to cease provocations and withdraw military forces from Transnistria. It is imperative that the EU continues to support Moldova financially, politically and technically. This includes assisting in the peaceful reintegration of Transnistria, fostering election security and enhancing Moldova's economic development.

  Eugen Tomac (Renew). – Domnule președinte, stimați colegi, Republica Moldova este singurul stat din Europa locuit de o majoritate de cetățeni ai Uniunii Europene, dar se află în afara Uniunii Europene.

Prin cetățenia română pe care și-au dobândit-o majoritatea cetățenilor Republicii Moldova, Republica Moldova și-a ales destinul proeuropean demult.

Acum, Rusia, care menține de mai bine de 30 de ani, ilegal, prezență militară pe teritoriul Republicii Moldova încearcă prin toate instrumentele să blocheze procesul de aderare al Republicii Moldova la Uniunea Europeană.

Kremlinul mi-a impus interdicție de a intra în Federația Rusă pentru că am spus că Rusia trebuie să plece din Republica Moldova, iar Republica Moldova, pe 20 octombrie, va vota un referendum prin care va spune da Europei și noi trebuie să o așteptăm aici, să o susținem necondiționat.

  Sandra Kalniete (PPE). – Priekšsēdētāja kungs! Kolēģi! 20. oktobrī gaidāmās prezidenta vēlēšanas un referendums par dalību Eiropas Savienībā ir izšķirīgs pagrieziena brīdis Moldovas Eiropas integrācijā. Tāpēc Krievija vērš pret Moldovu mafijas stila kampaņu ar vēlētāju kukuļošanu, masīvu dezinformāciju un sabiedrības destabilizācijas mēģinājumiem. Pēdējā mēnesī vien vairāk nekā 15 miljonu dolāru Krievija ir iepludinājusi 130 000 Moldovas pilsoņu bankas kontos. Paralēli tam notiek kiberuzbrukumi vitāli svarīgām valsts sistēmām.

Kampaņa ir neslēpts uzbrukums Moldovas demokrātijai un valsts institūcijām. Faktiski tas ir uzbrukums Moldovas Eiropas nākotnei. Tāpēc Moldovai ir tiesības aizstāvēt sevi, gan slēdzot propagandas tirdzniecības vietas, gan liedzot nelegāli finansēto partiju kandidātiem konkurēt prezidenta vēlēšanās.

Atlikušajā laikā pirms referenduma Eiropas Savienībai ir jāpalielina visa veida palīdzība Moldovai cīņā pret hibrīddraudiem, kiberuzbrukumiem un dezinformāciju. Tam mūsu rīcībā ir virkne instrumentu — Eiropas miera mehānisms, sankciju pastiprināšana, kā arī partnerības misijas sadarbības programmas.

Moldovas vieta ir Eiropas Savienībā. Vēsture mums nepiedos, ja mēs nespēsim apturēt Krievijas un tās vietējo palīgu ļaunprātīgo darbošanos un hibrīdoperācijas.

  Pina Picierno (S&D). – Signor Presidente, onorevoli colleghi, signora Commissaria, come è noto, il regime di Putin ha un un'intolleranza diffusa e vorrei dire cronica verso ogni occasione in cui i cittadini possono esprimersi liberamente.

La sua propaganda si è infiltrata nel Regno Unito nel 2016, si è infiltrata alle elezioni in Francia, ha tentato di condizionare persino le elezioni per questo Parlamento. Dunque è già successo altre volte e i prossimi giorni saranno cruciali per evitare e per limitare che l'opinione pubblica moldava venga inondata di fake news e di propaganda antidemocratica.

Perché la procura nazionale anticorruzione moldava ha già dimostrato che lo scorso settembre 15 milioni di dollari sono stati trasferiti per pagare degli elettori affinché votino contro l'adesione all'Unione europea e per favorire i candidati dell'oligarca pro russo Shor.

Ma, nonostante tutto questo, la Moldavia è sempre più vicina all'Europa e dunque garantire il suo processo di adesione significa innanzitutto garantire che questa scelta venga espressa liberamente.

  Adrian-George Axinia (ECR). – Domnule președinte, sunt un milion de cetățeni ai Republicii Moldova care au primit în mod formal și cetățenia română. Foarte mulți dintre aceștia lucrează în alte state ale Uniunii Europene și se dovedesc a fi oameni buni și muncitori care au aderat pe deplin la valorile europene. Ei trimit acasă sume importante de bani și, în fapt, reprezintă adevăratul motor al economiei Republicii Moldova.

Devine clar că frații noștri basarabeni văd în Uniunea Europeană calea spre o îmbunătățire a situației economice și sociale. Ce nu văd însă basarabenii este ca liderii politici ai Europei să fie preocupați în mod real de ce se întâmplă în țara lor. Ar fi fost nevoie, inclusiv în perspectiva referendumului din 20 octombrie, de o prezență mai mare a liderilor Europei în Republica Moldova, pentru a prezenta clar care vor fi beneficiile acestei aderări și pentru a asuma angajamente ferme în acest sens în fața cetățenilor. Nu se poate doar cu dragoste dintr-o singură parte.

Dezbaterea de astăzi de la Strasbourg era mult, mult mai utilă dacă se purta în Parlamentul de la Chișinău, inclusiv din perspectiva contracarării atacurilor hibride ale Federației Ruse împotriva instituțiilor Republicii Moldova. Reiterez speranța AUR ca Republica Moldova să fie cât mai repede membră a Uniunii Europene și ca referendumul din 20 octombrie să fie un succes.

  Michał Szczerba (PPE). – Panie Przewodniczący! Pani Komisarz! Dziś z Parlamentu Europejskiego musi wyjść jeden przekaz: Mołdawia będzie członkiem Unii Europejskiej. Ta droga jest nieodwracalna. Rezolucja, którą przygotowała Europejska Partia Ludowa oraz parlamentarzyści Koalicji Obywatelskiej z Polski, to silny głos wsparcia w europejskiej drodze i nasz sprzeciw wobec prób rosyjskiej ingerencji w zbliżające się wybory i referendum konstytucyjne. Inwazja kraju terrorystycznego, jakim jest Rosja Putina, na Ukrainę doprowadziła do przyspieszenia osłabienia rosyjskich wpływów w tym kraju. Wywołuje to furię reżimu i wiąże się z bezprecedensowymi naciskami i niedozwolonym szantażem. Dyrektor FSB wymienia Mołdawię jako kraj, który może stać się kolejnym państwem objętym konfliktem zbrojnym. To próba wytworzenia efektu mrożącego na społeczeństwo.

Na początku września w Kiszyniowie polski premier Donald Tusk zapewnił prezydent Maię Sandu i mołdawski parlament o naszym pełnym wsparciu dla akcesji. Polska prezydencja w Radzie Unii Europejskiej będzie traktowała kwestię rozszerzenia Unii Europejskiej priorytetowo.

Jakie wnioski musimy wyciągnąć z tej lekcji? My jako Europa, my jako Europejczycy musimy konsekwentnie budować odporność społeczną, walczyć z dezinformacją i próbą ingerencji w demokratyczne procesy wyborcze, budować niezależność energetyczną i zbudować silną europejską unię obrony. Trzeba przejść od miękkich rozmów do twardej siły.

  Tonino Picula (S&D). – Mr President, colleagues, fighting interference and disinformation does not stop at our borders, as all sorts of authoritarian regimes are increasing their activity in our immediate neighbourhood. Russia, with its ongoing military presence in Transnistria, is a destabilising factor per se, meaning that the hybrid warfare to put Moldova under the Kremlin's control should be unacceptable for all pro-European democratic forces.

Let me remind you that for supporting Moldovan EU aspirations, the economic and energy security is crucial in all these efforts. The recently signed Security and Defence Partnership is a welcome framework for our support. I also call on the Council to adopt targeted measures against pro-Russian actors involved in hybrid attacks against Moldova.

As for the European Parliament, we need to increase our own resilience throughout this mandate and adopt new and innovative approaches, continuing the legacy of the INGE Committee in these new, even more troublesome geopolitical circumstances.

  Małgorzata Gosiewska (ECR). – Panie Przewodniczący! W miarę jak Mołdawia zbliża się do kluczowych wyborów prezydenckich i decydującego referendum w sprawie integracji z Unią Europejską, stajemy przed krytycznym momentem. Musimy działać zdecydowanie, aby chronić ten proces demokratyczny przed ingerencją z zewnątrz, ze strony Rosji, której nieustające próby destabilizacji Mołdawii zagrażają jej suwerenności. Odważny postęp Mołdawii w kierunku integracji europejskiej jest nieustannie atakowany. To nie jest tylko walka Mołdawii, to także nasza walka.

Unia Europejska musi stanąć ramię w ramię z Mołdawią, zapewniając solidne wsparcie polityczne, finansowe i techniczne, aby zagwarantować, że wybory w Mołdawii będą wolne, uczciwe i odporne na zewnętrzne manipulacje. Polska od lat aktywnie uczestniczy w tych procesach, zarówno poprzez współpracę rozwojową z wykorzystaniem środków unijnych, jak i w ramach współpracy bilateralnej. Wzmocnienie Mołdawii to nie tylko kwestia solidarności. To strategiczny imperatyw dla stabilności i bezpieczeństwa całego naszego regionu. Wyślijmy jednoznaczny sygnał. Droga Mołdawii do Europy nie zostanie powstrzymana przez Putina.

  Andrea Wechsler (PPE). – Herr Präsident, sehr geehrte Frau Kommissarin, liebe Kolleginnen und Kollegen! Wir stehen vor einem historischen Moment, der über die Zukunft von Frieden und Stabilität in Europa entscheiden könnte. In wenigen Tagen wird die Bevölkerung Moldaus in einem Referendum über die Frage abstimmen, ob Moldau Teil der Europäischen Union werden möchte. Die Menschen in Moldau haben sich in den letzten Jahren in einer Weise für Freiheit, Demokratie und Rechtsstaatlichkeit eingesetzt, die uns alle beeindruckt. Doch genau dieser Weg ist bedroht, und zwar durch die gezielte Destabilisierung seitens Russlands. Das ist ein Angriff auf unsere Prinzipien der Demokratie und Souveränität in Europa. Deswegen müssen wir uns klar und deutlich positionieren. Wir unterstützen die Republik Moldau, und zwar aus dem Bewusstsein heraus, dass die Sicherheit dieses Landes direkt mit der Sicherheit Europas verknüpft ist. Die moldauische Bevölkerung hat bereits bewiesen, dass sie die Werte der EU teilt, und mit ihrer Aufnahme ukrainischer Flüchtlinge ein klares Zeichen für ein Europa der Menschlichkeit, des Friedens, der Freiheit und des Wohlstands gesetzt.

Wir als Europäische Union haben daher eine klare Verantwortung. Moldau braucht nicht nur unsere Solidarität, sondern konkrete politische und wirtschaftliche Perspektiven. Die Reformen, die Präsidentin Sandu auf den Weg gebracht hat, verdienen Anerkennung und unsere volle Unterstützung. Gleichzeitig müssen wir sicherstellen, dass Moldau die Voraussetzungen für eine EU‑Mitgliedschaft vollauf erfüllt. Lassen Sie uns diese historische Chance nicht verpassen, die moldauische Bevölkerung auf ihrem Weg in die EU zu unterstützen. Wenn die Republik Moldau den Weg in die Europäische Union gehen möchte, dann sagen wir: Herzlich willkommen!

IN THE CHAIR: ESTEBAN GONZÁLEZ PONS
Vice-President

  Victor Negrescu (S&D). – Domnule președinte, doamnă comisară, dragi colegi, parcursul european al Republicii Moldova este aproape de a deveni ireversibil. Dacă cetățenii din Republica Moldova vor vota masiv pentru aderarea la Uniunea Europeană, la referendumul care va avea loc pe 20 octombrie, atunci drumul spre aderare va deveni mai ușor și sprijinul Uniunii Europene mai consistent.

În calitate de vicepreședinte al Parlamentului European, care are ca responsabilitate inclusiv relația cu Republica Moldova, mă bucur că prin această rezoluție arătăm încă o dată sprijinul necondiționat al tuturor familiilor politice proeuropene din legislativul european pentru parcursul european al Chișinăului. Este un sprijin pentru cetățenii Republicii Moldova, pentru dezvoltarea și securitatea lor, într-un context plin de provocări, generat de războiul hibrid și interferențele regimului autoritar de la Moscova, care își dorește să blocheze acest parcurs european.

Trebuie să spun foarte clar: nu se vinde Republica Moldova, contrar a ceea ce spun agenții ruși de acolo. De altfel, noi am decis să alocăm fonduri suplimentare pentru Republica Moldova, 50 de milioane de euro pentru țările candidate și vecinătatea de Est, trei milioane de euro pentru asistența pentru preaderare.

Sunt multe lucruri de făcut. Suntem aici pentru Republica Moldova. Mulțumesc.

  Davor Ivo Stier (PPE). – Poštovani predsjedavajući, kolegice i kolege, ovom rezolucijom šaljemo vrlo jasnu poruku potpore Moldovi. Ne promoviramo jednu figuru ili političku opciju, nego dajemo potporu cijeloj Moldovi da mogu građani Moldove sami odlučiti o svojoj sudbini.

Dajemo potporu zato da Moldova može osnažiti svoju otpornost u trenutku kada je ona žrtva jednog neprijateljskog djelovanja Ruske Federacije, koja djeluje obavještajno, hibridno, širi dezinformacije, korumpira političare, pokušava kupiti glasove i to čini ne samo u Moldovi nego i u Gruziji, to čini i u Crnoj Gori, u Bosni i Hercegovini i drugim zemljama zapadnog Balkana. To čini Ruska Federacija i u Moldovi.

I zato naša poruka ovom rezolucijom je vrlo jasna. Želimo da Moldova bude suverena, da ljudi u Moldovi mogu odlučiti sami o svojoj sudbini. Naša poruka stoga iz ovog Parlamenta je ta da ako vi, građani Moldove, želite odlučiti ići dalje prema Europskoj uniji, bit ćete dobrodošli. Ako želite dalje provoditi reforme, imat ćete našu potporu. Ako želite biti članica Europske unije, bit ćete sigurno suvereniji ako želite biti dio Europe. Za to ne trebate pitati dozvolu ni od koga, a ponajmanje od Moskve.

Stoga, ova potpora ovoj rezoluciji je potpora viziji Moldove. Ovo je potpora jednoj Moldovi koja će biti slobodna, suverena i europska.

  Francisco Assis (S&D). – Senhor Presidente, o expansionismo da Federação Russa, sob a liderança do tirano Putin, não se limita a incursões e invasões militares. Aposta também na desestabilização regional e na interferência – cada vez menos dissimulada – no funcionamento das democracias europeias. Na sua obsessão de minar o projeto europeu, empenha-se hoje em campanhas de desinformação junto de países com estatuto de candidatos à União Europeia.

Para grande frustração de Putin, o desejo soberano de várias ex-repúblicas soviéticas não é a subserviência à Federação Russa, mas a integração na União Europeia.

Infelizmente, as plataformas digitais permitem hoje a qualquer autocrata espalhar propaganda, forjar contas falsas ou difundir mentiras como se fossem factos verdadeiros. Mas Putin subiu a parada, financiando partidos e candidatos pró-russos, e agitando até o fantasma da guerra para amedrontar os cidadãos moldavos que no dia 20 vão às urnas votar a adesão à União Europeia.

Não nos deixemos iludir. Este jogo sujo também revela que Putin tem medo do projeto europeu, tem medo do poder de sedução e de influência da União Europeia. É por isso que nós não podemos deixar a Moldávia desamparada. Temos obrigação de apoiar o povo moldavo.

  Krzysztof Brejza (PPE). – Panie Przewodniczący! Szanowni Państwo! W obliczu nadchodzących wyborów prezydenckich i referendum europejskiego w Mołdawii musimy powiedzieć sobie wprost, że proces integracji z Unią Europejską jest procesem strategicznym dla bezpieczeństwa Mołdawii i tego regionu Europy.

Ale o czym my mówimy? My mówimy o wyborze pomiędzy dobrem a złem, pomiędzy wartościami zachodnimi, takimi jak demokracja, praworządność, wolne media, wolne sądy, a złem, które wylewa się teraz na Mołdawię w formie tych wszystkich działań hybrydowych, typowych dla postsowieckiego imperium Putina: kłamstw, manipulacji, szpiegostwa, wpływania na inne państwa, by wpływać na wybory. To jest wybór między dobrem a złem. To jest wybór, jak ma być traktowana jednostka. Czy jednostka ma być szanowana, czy człowiek ma być traktowany z godnością, czy człowiek ma być traktowany tak, jak Rosja Putina traktuje dzisiaj Ukraińców? Dziś ich niszczy.

Mołdawio jesteśmy z tobą, wspieramy cię, stoimy po twojej stronie. Drzwi do wspólnoty zachodniej, do wolnego świata są dla ciebie otwarte. Skorzystaj z tej drogi. Będziemy cię wspierać.

  Mika Aaltola (PPE). – Arvoisa puhemies, komission jäsen, Moldovan tasavallan presidentinvaaleihin ja kansanäänestykseen on aikaa kaksi viikkoa ja ennakkosuosikkina pidetään nykyistä presidenttiä Maia Sandua. Sandun johdolla Moldova on pyrkinyt katkaisemaan kytköksiään Venäjään ja edistämään maan EU-siteitä.

Sandun tie ennakkosuosikiksi ei ole ollut helppo. Venäjä on epävakauttanut Moldovaa monin keinoin pyrkien vaikuttamaan vaalien lopputulokseen. Venäjä on tukenut laittomasti sille suotuisia puolueita vaaleissa, jonka lisäksi se on pyrkinyt ostamaan moldovalaisten ääniä. Viimeisen kuukauden aikana Venäjän federaatiosta on saapunut yli 15 miljoonaa dollaria, jotka on jaettu 130 000 Moldovan kansalaiselle. Samalla Venäjä on muokannut Moldovan poliittista maisemaa lukuisilla kloonipuolueilla ja pseudoehdokkailla.

Nämä Venäjän demokratiahäirinnän työkalut ovat meille jo tuttuja meidän omista vaaleistamme. On päivänselvää, että Venäjä pyrkii sotkemaan vaaleja nyt ja jatkossa. Siinä missä Venäjä pyrkii sotkemaan demokratioita, EU:n, meidän täytyy toimia vakauden ankkureina myös moldovalaisille.

  Sven Simon (PPE). – Mr President, colleagues, Moldova finds itself at a crossroads ahead of its elections. Will the country continue its path of European integration? Or will it be dragged into an oligarchic past? This choice will shape the country for a generation, and this choice must be taken by the people of Moldova and them alone, without foreign interference.

Yet at the same time, we as Europeans have to live up to our own responsibility. It is not enough to say that Moldova's place is in Europe. We need to follow this statement with political action. We need to do more to make the promise of a European future credible. To the critics of enlargement in my own country and across western Europe, let me remind you of what Pope John Paul II famously said. Europe needs both wings of her lungs, the western and the eastern, to breathe freely. If we don't act accordingly, others will fill the vacuum that we leave. European unification, colleagues, will only be complete if it includes the Europeans in Moldova.

  Michał Wawrykiewicz (PPE). – Mr President, Madam Vice-President, dear colleagues, Moldova is at a crossroads with its upcoming presidential elections and the crucial referendum on EU integration. Let's make one thing absolutely clear: Moldova belongs in our European Community. Its future cannot be dictated by external actors. Russia's ongoing hybrid warfare, disinformation, illegal funding of political parties and cyberattacks threatens not only Moldova, but the stability of the entire European neighbourhood.

The European Union must be prepared to act. We need to set the example by strengthening our own resilience and supporting Moldova in return. Moldova has made significant progress, but it cannot stand alone in face of external threats. We must offer unwavering support – tightening sanctions, enhancing cybersecurity and addressing hybrid threats head on.

The recently-signed EU-Moldova Security and Defence Partnership is a major step in this direction. It provides Moldova with the tools to defend its sovereignty and we must ensure it is implemented effectively. Furthermore, Moldova's commitment to the rule of law and the anti-corruption reforms is vital for securing its European future. Moldova's place is with Europe, with us, and we must ensure this path remains open, democratic and secure.

  Jüri Ratas (PPE). – Mr President, honourable Members, dear colleagues, in 2022, Moldova took the important step of becoming a candidate country for EU membership. It was a bold move by a nation that has long-faced manipulation and pressure from Russia, with parts of its territory still under occupation. Moldova's European path is not just a political choice, but a commitment to freedom and democracy. The EU has a crucial role in supporting Moldova's path. The war in Ukraine also directly affects democratic and independent Moldova and its road to EU accession. What Moldova is facing right now is not an isolated attack. It is a threat to all nations striving for democracy and peace.

As we approach Moldova's presidential elections and referendum, we can be certain that Russia escalates hybrid warfare tactics. Russian propaganda, disinformation campaigns and attempts to disrupt democratic processes will increase in the coming weeks. The responsibility also lies with Moldova itself to ensure that the upcoming elections and referendum are free, fair and democratic. As Moldova navigates a crucial period, we must be more ambitious with our assistance.

Catch-the-eye procedure

  Grzegorz Braun (NI). – Mr President, dear colleagues, I wonder what is worse? A post-Soviet Moscow regime or a neo-Soviet Brussels regime? What is worse here?

Dear Moldovans, my fellow Europeans: beware! Beware and take care. You're about to choose. And mind you, in this House today, they were discussing the possibilities of making cars more expensive for every family. The previous week, they were discussing, as they usually do, their ability to change the climate. It's a madhouse here. It's an asylum.

Many people pretend to be some Napoleons going for Moscow, other pretend to be rainmakers, changing the climate. Some others are simply neo-Soviet, neo-Nazi...

(The President cut off the speaker)

(End of catch-the-eye procedure)

  Věra Jourová, Vice-President of the Commission, on behalf of the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, – Mr President, honourable Members, we welcome the Parliament's intention to adopt a resolution recognising the challenges Moldova faces due to intense Russian hybrid warfare and reaffirming strong support for Moldova's EU integration. The resolution also rightly highlights the need for the EU to continue its assistance in these difficult times.

Despite challenges, the Moldovan Government remains committed to the reforms that will bring the country closer to EU membership, and it is essential we continue to support Moldova and stand by our own commitments. The upcoming elections and referendum on EU accession are a key opportunity for the Moldovan people to have their voice heard. Moldova belongs in Europe and we will continue supporting its EU path.

  President. – Thank you very much, Madam Vice‑President.

The debate is closed. The vote will be held tomorrow.

Written Statements (Rule 178)

  Ioan-Rareş Bogdan (PPE), în scris. – Consolidarea rezilienței Republicii Moldova în fața ingerințelor Rusiei este vitală în contextul următoarelor alegeri prezidențiale și a referendumului constituțional privind integrarea europeană.

În fața amenințărilor externe și a tentativelor de destabilizare, Moldova are nevoie de un sprijin puternic din partea Uniunii Europene pentru a-și apăra instituțiile democratice, suveranitatea și parcursul european si pentru a face față provocărilor economice, energetice și de securitate.

Consolidarea rezilienței Republicii Moldova este crucială pentru a face față ingerințelor Rusiei și altor presiuni externe, deoarece doar prin instituții puternice și capacitatea de a rezista la influențe destabilizatoare, țara poate proteja atât suveranitatea, cât și procesul democratic.

În contextul vulnerabilităților economice, energetice și informaționale, reziliența devine cheia pentru a preveni manipularea externă, dezinformarea și eventualele crize politice. Astfel, investind în securitate cibernetică, independență energetică și o societate civilă activă, Moldova își va putea asigura stabilitatea pe termen lung și continuarea integrării europene.

  Mariusz Kamiński (ECR), na piśmie. – Dzisiejsza debata to głos solidarności z Mołdawią. Głos potrzebny, bo w związku ze zbliżającymi się wyborami prezydenckimi i referendum nt. integracji z Unią Mołdawia stała się celem wzmożonych ataków ze strony Rosji. To dobrze, iż zarówno cele Kremla, jak i metody destabilizacji Mołdawii są ujawniane i unieszkodliwiane.

Mołdawia potrzebuje naszego wsparcia, by budować własną odporność, by zadecydować o swojej przyszłości. Lata pozostawania w szarej strefie służyły jedynie Rosji i powiązanym z nią oligarchom, budującym fortuny na okradaniu narodu, także z otrzymywanego z zewnątrz wsparcia. To dobrze, że w Kiszyniowie znaleźli się politycy, którzy postanowili zaproponować krajowi inny kierunek.

Wspierałem Mołdawię wraz z prezydentem Andrzejem Dudą oraz rządem Rzeczypospolitej, kiedy pełniłem rolę ministra spraw wewnętrznych. To wsparcie jest wciąż potrzebne, w szczególności w dalszej walce z korupcją, praniem brudnych pieniędzy, w zapewnieniu bezpieczeństwa energetycznego, w dalszych reformach, bez czego gospodarka Mołdawii nie ma szans na trwałą poprawę. Brak sukcesów w tych dziedzinach naraża kraj na dalszą rosyjską penetrację. Dlatego cieszę się, iż także Unia, zarówno Komisja jak i Rada, oferują Mołdawii konkretną pomoc. Swoje propozycje przedstawił także Parlament w rezolucji towarzyszącej debacie. Jako członek delegacji ds. relacji z Mołdawią będę dążył, aby to wsparcie było wymierne i przyniosło oczekiwane rezultaty.

  Ľubica Karvašová (Renew), in writing. – Moldova’s EU aspiration is impressive. Moldovan citizens show strong commitment to democratic values, the rule of law, and human rights. They do so in incredibly difficult circumstances. There can be no doubt that Moldova’s future membership in the European Union is a key step toward securing its long-term stability and prosperity.

We cannot falter. We know the Russian playbook. We’ve seen it in our neighbourhood, we’ve seen our member states. This is especially relevant in pre-electoral times, when external interference becomes even more aggressive. Let’s be frank: Russia is actively working to destabilise Moldova and derail its EU aspirations.

The EU must stand firmly by Moldova, providing strong political, economic, and security support to help bolster its resilience against these external pressures. Moldova’s successful integration into the European Union is not only critical for its own future, but also underscores the EU’s global aspirations. We cannot and will not let Russia win in Moldova.

  Urmas Paet (Renew), kirjalikult. – Venemaa püüab Moldovat jõuliselt Euroopa kursilt kõrvale kallutada. Seda eriti aktiivselt nüüd, sest Moldovas toimuvad 20. oktoobril presidendivalimised ja samal päeval korraldatakse ka rahvahääletus ELiga ühinemise üle. Seetõttu sekkub Venemaa Moldova asjadesse järjest jõulisema õõnestamise ja hübriidoperatsioonidega. Valimispettusi, küberoperatsioone ja infosõda kavandavad ja korraldavad mitmed tegijad, alates venemeelsetest Moldova oligarhidest ja lõpetades Vene riigi rahastatud RT-võrgustikuga. Moldova julgeolekuteenistuste hiljutisel hinnangul on Venemaa kulutanud Moldova valimiste ja rahvahääletuse euroopameelselt kursilt kõrvale kallutamisele ligikaudu 100 miljonit eurot. Mõistan sellise pahatahtliku tegevuse karmilt hukka. Venemaa peab austama Moldova sõltumatust, lõpetama provokatsioonid, viima oma relvajõud Moldova territooriumilt välja ning hävitama Transnistrias Cobasna laos asuva laskemoona.

EL peab kehtestama Moldova suveräänsuse õõnestajatele uued sanktsioonid. Samuti on võtmekohal, et EL aitaks Moldoval tugevdada oma institutsioone ja võimet võidelda hübriidohtudega.

Peame tegema kõik endast oleneva, et Moldova püsiks Euroopa kursil ja saaks ELiga aegsasti ühineda. Euroopa Komisjon peaks hakkama Moldovat toetama ühinemiseelse abi rahastamisvahendist ja tähtsustama kandidaatriikide rahalist toetamist järgmises ELi mitmeaastases eelarveraamistikus senisest rohkem. Juba alanud ühinemisläbirääkimisi Moldovaga tuleks kiirendada.

  Mihai Tudose (S&D), în scris. – Am co-semnat rezoluția pentru consolidarea rezilienței Republicii Moldova, pentru că este nevoie de suportul urgent și masiv al UE pentru Chișinău, în actualul context extrem de complicat din regiune.

Apreciez răspunsul prompt al Comisiei Europene, care a anunțat un plan de creștere pentru Republica Moldova, în valoare de 1,8 miliarde de euro, pentru următorii trei ani.

Totodată, prin rezoluția inițiată, solicităm Comisiei să includă Republica Moldova în Instrumentul de asistență pentru preaderare, să ia măsuri pentru liberalizarea permanentă a contingentelor tarifare și să integreze statul vecin în spațiul de „roaming la prețurile de pe piața națională”.

Alături de vitala dimensiune economică, se impune sprijinirea instituțiilor pentru a face față provocărilor - de la reformele atât de necesare, la combaterea acțiunilor de destabilizare, ce se intensifică în pragul alegerilor prezidențiale și a referendumului privind aderarea la UE.

Subliniez, în acest sens, cererea pe care o adresăm Comisiei Europene de a spori asistența tehnică, prin trimiterea de consilieri care să ajute autoritățile de la Chișinău să facă față unor dificultăți majore, atât structurale, cât și conjuncturale.