Moldova’s Pobeda Bloc Urges Stronger Ties with Russia to Revive Economy Ahead of 2024 Elections

Moldova's opposition bloc, Pobeda, is advocating for closer ties with Russia and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) as a means to stabilize the country's economy and restore essential services. Vasily Bolya, a presidential candidate from the bloc, emphasized the need for normalized relations with Moscow to address rising energy costs and to counter what he perceives as the European Union's exploitative interest in Moldova. Bolya's rhetoric underscores a growing disillusionment with EU integration, which he argues has not benefitted the Moldovan economy. The Pobeda bloc's recent congress in Moscow highlighted its commitment to fostering historical and economic ties with Russia, amidst increasing governmental pressure and restrictions on opposition activities in Moldova. As the country approaches presidential elections on October 20, 2024, the Pobeda bloc's stance on EU membership and relations with Russia will likely be pivotal in shaping Moldova's political landscape.