Moldova signs defense cooperation agreement with France over threat to Russia. Moldova has one of the smallest economies in Europe and has been aiming to join the European Union.
As neighboring Ukraine faces military invasion by Russia, it is strengthening its relations with the West. In Moldova, there is Transnistria, a region that has unilaterally declared secession and independence, and where Russian troops continue to be stationed there. Last month, pro-Russian forces that control this region decided to move residents to Russia, citing increasing pressure from the Moldova government.