President Sandu of Moldova, Ukraine's neighboring country, visited France and signed a defense cooperation agreement with President Macron, raising awareness of the threat posed by Russia.
Moldova, a former Soviet Union, has one of the smallest economies in Europe and has been aiming to join the European Union (EU), but as neighboring Ukraine faces military invasion by Russia, it is strengthening its relations with the West.
President Sandu of Moldova visited Paris, France, and signed a defense cooperation agreement with President Macron on the 7th.
"Russia's expansionist goals extend beyond Ukraine," President Sandu said at a press conference, adding that Russia is attempting to take control of Moldova by conducting cyberattacks and inciting a coup. expressed a sense of crisis.
In response, President Macron announced that defense personnel would be permanently stationed in Moldova within the next few months, stating that the two countries would ``work effectively to strengthen mutual military ties.''
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. We asked for support such as protection.
President Sandu is expected to further strengthen cooperation with European countries, as there is a risk that the situation may become tense.