The President of Moldova, Maija Sandu, stated at a press briefing on Monday that Russia is planning to stage a coup d’état in Moldova. Russia is planning to attack government institutions and change power in the country with opposition protests, as well as by involving militarily trained people and citizens of Russia, Belarus, Serbia and Montenegro, the president said.
Dauchs noted that presidents are usually the last to learn about a coup, but if the coup is known and announced publicly, it can no longer be considered a coup. According to the political scientist, it may be a Russian “PR” campaign to mislead the other side.
Dauchts also emphasizes that the situation in Moldova is complicated and different developments are possible, taking into account both political divisions and events related to the national identity between Moldovans and Romanians. In addition, the Gagauz consider themselves a separate nation from Moldova and would like to maintain a “pro-Russian” sentiment.
“The idea of a coup d’état is in the air, but it’s hard to say whether it’s overt. It’s probably a political move to check alertness to possible coup threats,” said Dauchs.
Asked if Russia would be ready to take any steps towards Moldova, taking into account the war in Ukraine, the political scientist noted that at the moment no one can predict the actions of the Russian leaders.
“There is no normal situation in Russia with planning or any political goals. No one in the world can say exactly what the regime’s leaders are thinking,” said the political scientist.
