EU Allocates €20 Million to Strengthen Moldova's Air Defense Amid Russian Threats

The European Union has approved a €20 million aid package to help modernize Moldova's air defense, specifically funding short-range air defense launchers and missiles in response to increased drone incursions linked to Russia’s war against Ukraine. This measure, adopted under the European Peace Facility, is the seventh such package, with total EU assistance to Moldova since 2021 reaching nearly €200 million. The program aims to enhance Moldova’s defense capabilities while respecting its neutrality, improve its ability to protect civilians and infrastructure, and increase the military’s alignment and interoperability with EU standards. Moldova’s leaders have voiced concerns over Russian drones violating their airspace, and EU officials stress that these efforts are meant to bolster Moldova’s security and resilience in light of regional instability. The aid is part of a larger €60 million EU support package for Moldova this year, which also includes previous funding to improve infantry mobility and command and control systems for air defense. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and Moldovan President Maia Sandu both emphasized the initiative as a necessary investment in peace and civilian protection.