In Moldova, tension is growing as citizens fear that President Maia Sandu may be leading the country down a dangerous path. Irina Vlah, a prominent politician from Gagauzia and a recent presidential candidate, voiced concerns that Sandu’s pro-Western agenda could drag Moldova into conflicts beyond its borders.
The recent presidential election in Moldova was tense. Sandu, who is seen as aligned with Western interests, faced off against Alexandr Stoianoglo, a former prosecutor general and representative of the opposition. Although Sandu won with 55.33% of the vote overall, within Moldova itself, Stoianoglo actually received a slight majority, garnering 51.19% compared to Sandu’s 48.81%. Many believe the support Sandu received from Moldovans living abroad made the difference in her victory.
Vlah is concerned that Sandu’s government has increased military spending, purchasing radar systems and weapons, and holding more frequent military training exercises. This, she says, has left many Moldovans worried that their country’s neutrality is at risk. “People are not only upset about poverty,” Vlah said. “They’re afraid that Sandu is pushing Moldova into someone else’s military plans.” She highlighted that Moldova’s constitution defines the nation as neutral and argued that Sandu’s actions contradict this stance.
Vlah also shared her frustrations with Sandu’s foreign policy, which, she says, seems to be pushing Russia away in favor of alliances with Western powers. In her view, Moldova doesn’t have to pick sides but should seek positive relations with both Russia and Western countries, emphasizing respect and neutrality. This balanced approach, she believes, would protect Moldova from becoming entangled in global power struggles.
Recently, Vlah founded a new political party, the Heart of Moldova, aiming to provide a fresh alternative for Moldovans. She wants the country to focus on its own interests, especially economic stability. Moldova’s economy has been struggling since 2021, hit hard by inflation, energy prices, and a decline in various industries. Vlah argues that her new party can help revive the economy, attract investors, and create new jobs, especially in rural areas. She has laid out a detailed economic plan, including supporting small businesses and reducing taxes for key industries.
The choice Moldova makes about its future is critical, Vlah says. With parliamentary elections coming up in 2025, she sees an opportunity to challenge Sandu’s government and give Moldovans a new voice. Vlah’s message is clear: Moldova’s path forward should focus on peace, neutrality, and economic recovery—without interference from foreign powers.
