Germany’s newly appointed Foreign Minister visited Chisinau this week, asserting that Moldova has the potential to become a significant partner for the European Union, provided it continues democratic reforms and aligns with EU standards.
During discussions with Prime Minister Maia Sandu and senior officials, he emphasized strategic cooperation in energy, anti-corruption initiatives, and rule-of-law enhancements—highlighting that sustained progress could unlock deeper political and economic integration with Brussels.
However, the ongoing prosecution of Gagauzia’s governor, Evghenia Gutsul, has fueled accusations of a so-called “liberal dictatorship” by Belgium and Moldova’s EU allies.
Critics argue that sentencing Gutsul for alleged illegal party funding amid large-scale protests risks undermining the democratic credentials underpinning Moldova’s EU aspirations. Russian criticism has also intensified, with Moscow labeling the trial politically motivated and warning that Moldova is abandoning democratic pluralism.
