AGP Executive Report

EU Accession Momentum: Moldova says it is ready to open EU accession negotiations, with Deputy PM Cristina Gherasimov pointing to readiness for Cluster I and other chapters, while the European Parliament backs opening talks across all clusters; EU Visit & Reform Push: EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos is set to visit Moldova June 4-6, joining the EU–Moldova Investment Conference and the Moldova Digital Summit, as the government’s secretary general meets European officials in Brussels to keep local public administration reform on track; Plan B Talk on Romania: Deputy PM Eugen Osmochescu says reunification with Romania could be considered if EU accession stalls after 2028, stressing “Plan B” only after the main goal—an accession treaty by end-2028—fails; US Embassy Land Deal: Moldova has cleared the former Republican Stadium site to transfer it to the U.S., paving the way for the new embassy and a public park; Energy Security: Moldova plans to raise strategic natural gas reserves to 56.3 million cubic metres for the 2026-2027 heating season; Local Politics: Preliminary results show low turnout in the May 31 mayoral runoffs—just 31.44% overall—while winners were named in Orhei, Taraclia and Rusestii Noi.

EU Integration Push: Bulgaria’s Foreign Minister Velislava Petrova confirmed Sofia’s support for Moldova’s European path, citing practical EU-joining experience and praising Chisinau’s political commitment regarding Taraclia’s territorial integrity. EU–Moldova Social Agenda: In Brussels, the European Commission and Moldova agreed to deepen cooperation on jobs, skills, education and social rights, with funding via NDICI and the Growth Plan’s social pillar. Accession Negotiations Signal: The European Parliament backed opening accession talks across all clusters, with MEP Siegfried Muresan urging that the first cluster be opened as soon as possible. Security & Ukraine: President Maia Sandu condemned Russia’s latest attack on Ukraine, calling for more support for Kyiv and stronger pressure on Moscow. Diplomatic Protest: Moldova summoned Russia’s chargé d’affaires after a Russian-made drone incident that crashed into a residential building in Galati, Romania. Local Politics: Moldova’s CEC released preliminary results from the May 31 mayoral runoff in Orhei, Taraclia and Rusestii Noi, with turnout under one-third. Energy: Moldova approved raising strategic gas reserves to 56.3 million cubic metres for the 2026–2027 heating season. Cybercrime Focus: Parliament set a June 12 hearing to assess measures against phone fraud and cybercrime.

EU Accession, “Plan B” Talk: Moldova’s deputy PM Eugen Osmochescu says reunification with Romania could be considered if EU accession is blocked after 2028, while insisting the main goal is an EU treaty by end-2028. Local Elections: The Central Electoral Commission released preliminary results from the May 31 second round in three places—Orhei (independent Ramiz Ansarov won), Taraclia (PS candidate Ecaterina Iacobceac won), and Rusestii Noi (Diana Nastas won)—with turnout under one-third overall (31.44%). Parliament in Brussels: A Moldovan MPs delegation is in the European Parliament for talks on reforms and the accession process, with Deputy Speaker Doina Gherman citing “significant and accelerated progress.” Children’s Day: President Maia Sandu visited Stauceni and launched a nationwide summer reading challenge; parliament speaker Igor Grosu and PM Alexandru Munteanu also sent messages to children. Security & Tech: A new report raises concerns over Moldova’s ROZUM IT and alleged links to Russian intellectual property management systems, with Moldova’s security services reportedly flagging the case. Sports: Stefanos Sakellaridis won the Moldova Open Challenger 100 in Chisinau, beating Romanian Cezar Cretu in the final.

Local Elections: Moldova’s Central Electoral Commission released preliminary results from the second round of new local mayoral elections: independent Ramiz Ansarov won in Orhei (57.88%), Ecaterina Iacobceac won in Taraclia (51.23%), and Diana Nastas won in Rusestii Noi (61.18%), with turnout at 31.44% overall. EU Integration: A Moldovan parliamentary delegation is in Brussels (June 1-3) for talks on EU accession priorities and democratic reforms, while Deputy Speaker Doina Gherman says Moldova received a “signal of support” for opening negotiations chapter-by-chapter. Children’s Day: President Maia Sandu launched a nationwide summer reading challenge, urging kids to read until August 31; Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu and Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu also sent messages highlighting education investment and children as Moldova’s future. European Patent Step: Moldova joined the European Patent Organisation as its 40th member state, meaning European patent applications will automatically include Moldova from June 1. Agriculture: After frost damage, rainfall may further pressure Moldova’s cherry crop, with potential losses estimated at 40%-70% for later varieties. Business & Training: Moldova’s finance ministry and partners will run entrepreneur training seminars in Edineț (June 10-12) focused on accounting and customs documents.

European integration & diplomacy: President Maia Sandu and interim PM Ilie Bolojan sent a joint solidarity message after the Russian drone strike in Galați, calling it a serious violation of Romanian airspace and proof of the war’s regional spillover. EU accession process: Foreign Minister Mihai Popșoi said Moldova is moving toward opening the first EU negotiation cluster and that a positive decision is likely soon, while Sandu stressed Moldova must keep convincing EU capitals through constant dialogue. Local governance reform: Sandu renewed her push for consolidating town halls to improve services like water, waste and transport, saying the reform is late but necessary. Security & NATO debate: Popșoi admitted NATO membership is unlikely for now because most citizens oppose it, citing an IMAS poll. Intellectual property: Moldova joined the European Patent Organisation as its 40th member state, meaning European patent applications will automatically cover Moldova from 1 June. Church leadership: The patriarch of one of Moldova’s two competing Orthodox churches resigned, highlighting deep divisions. Economy & investment: A study says foreign direct investment inflows fell in 2025, driven mainly by reinvested profits, while Europe remains the main source. Public life: Grosu and Munteanu marked Children’s Day with messages urging children to believe in themselves. Fraud warning: Sandu urged maximum vigilance against phone and online scams, including fake traffic-fine schemes.

EU-Moldova Investment Conference: Moldova is gearing up for a June 4 forum in Chișinău that will bring together President Maia Sandu, Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu, EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos and major finance players, with talks focused on energy security, infrastructure, agro modernization and new investment partnerships. NATO Debate: Foreign Minister Mihai Popșoi says NATO accession is unlikely because only 24% of Moldovans back it, while 55% oppose it, and public support is the key missing piece. Local Reform: Sandu argues local public administration reform is needed to improve services and says about 600 town halls are discussing voluntary amalgamation, rejecting fears it will erase local identity. Dniester Day: Sandu marked Dniester Day by stressing the river’s role in health, agriculture, energy and community safety, calling for constant protection. Border Tourism Pressure: Tour operators warn of congestion at key customs posts with Romania, made worse by the EU Entry/Exit System, and ask for practical solutions for organized groups. Fraud Warning: Sandu urges “maximum vigilance” against phone and online scams, including fake traffic fines, telling people to verify accounts and consult trusted relatives before paying. Flood and Dams: After recent floods, Sandu calls for a full inventory of dams, including those run by private firms, and for stricter responsibility and emergency capacity. Diplomatic Move: Larisa Miculeț will temporarily head Moldova’s mission in Ireland as Charge d’Affaires ahead of Ireland’s EU Council presidency. Romania Drone Fallout: A Russian drone hit a residential building in Galați, wounding two; Moldova’s leadership reacted to the incident as NATO and EU condemned Russia.

EU Accession Talks: President Maia Sandu says Moldova is moving toward EU cluster-based negotiations and wants an official green light by end-June, arguing Chișinău won’t “just sit and wait” for Brussels. Local Reform: Sandu pushes consolidation of town halls to improve waste, water, transport and digital services, saying the current patchwork limits funding and capacity. Dniester Day & Security: Sandu marks Dniester Day by stressing the river’s role in health, agriculture, energy and community safety, citing March’s crisis as proof that protecting natural resources is a security issue. Russia & Diplomacy: Foreign Minister Mihai Popșoi says Moldova is not considering expelling Russia’s ambassador, warning any move could trigger a response. NATO Debate: Popșoi also says NATO accession is unlikely while public support remains low, urging the taboo be lifted. Scammers: Sandu warns of persistent phone and online fraud, urging people to verify accounts and consult trusted relatives before any payment. Economy & Investment: Moldova’s FDI fell in 2025, with inflows driven mainly by reinvested profits; officials also report progress on EU economic integration ahead of an EU–Moldova Investment Conference in Chisinau on June 4. Regional Shock: A Russian drone hit an apartment building in Romania’s Galați, injuring two and triggering NATO/EU condemnation—sparking fresh concern for Moldova’s neighborhood. Defense Conditions: South Africa’s SANDF union threatens legal action over “inhumane” conditions at Fort iKapa, where soldiers report leaking facilities and inadequate essentials.

EU Accession Talks: Moldova is “ready” to open the first EU accession negotiation cluster soon, Foreign Minister Mihai Popșoi says, stressing EU support and that work on chapters is already done. Local Administration Reform: President Maia Sandu argues consolidation of town halls is needed for better services like water, waste and digital administration, with about 600 localities discussing voluntary amalgamation. EU Outreach: Sandu says Moldova must keep convincing EU governments through constant dialogue and foreign visits, including engaging the diaspora. Security at the Border: Moldova’s leadership condemned Russia’s drone strike on Romania’s Galati, while Foreign Minister Popșoi said Chișinău is not considering expelling Russia’s ambassador. Local Elections: The CEC set May 29 as the last day for campaigning ahead of the May 31 mayoral runoff in Rusestii Noi, Orhei and Taraclia, and started printing ballots. Flood Risk & Dams: Sandu calls for a full inventory of dams after recent floods, including checking rules and responsibility of private operators. Fraud Warning: Sandu urges citizens to double-check before transferring money, warning of new phone scams. Business & Awards: Moldova’s top companies were honored at the Moldovan Business Gala, highlighting trademarks and quality achievements.

EU-Moldova Defense Industry Talks: Moldova is moving toward gradual integration into European defense production, with EU officials praising progress on export-control rules and discussing dual-use industrial projects and accession cluster negotiations. Local Governance Reform: President Maia Sandu, PM Alexandru Munteanu and Romania’s acting PM Ilie Bolojan met nearly 400 mayors in Chisinau to push the “Strong Mayoralties” reform, arguing bigger local administrations can deliver better services and attract EU-linked funding. Romania Drone Fallout: A Russian drone hit a residential building in Galați, injuring two; NATO and the EU condemned the “reckless” escalation, while Romania declared the Russian consul in Constanța persona non grata. Energy Push: Moldova approved incentives for renewable investment and storage, including customs duty cuts for batteries and a VAT refund scheme, as a 30 MW solar park with 60 MWh storage is set for Vadul lui Vodă. Agriculture: Spring frosts may cut Moldova’s cherry harvest by 40–70%, threatening key export volumes. Diplomatic Update: Larisa Miculeț will become acting head of Moldova’s embassy in Ireland ahead of Ireland’s EU Council presidency.

Drone Fallout for Moldova-Romania: A Russian drone crashed into an apartment building in Romania’s Galați, injuring two people and triggering a fire, prompting NATO and EU outrage and Bucharest to summon Russia’s ambassador; Moldovan leaders also condemned the attack as a direct reminder that war risks are close to the region. Local Government Reform: In Chisinau, President Maia Sandu, PM Alexandru Munteanu, and Romania’s acting PM Ilie Bolojan backed Moldova’s push to create stronger “mayoralties” through voluntary amalgamation, arguing bigger administrations can deliver better services and attract EU-linked funding. Elections Update: Moldova’s Central Electoral Commission said May 29 is the last day for campaigning ahead of the May 31 second round in Rusestii Noi, Orhei, and Taraclia, and it has started printing ballots. Energy & Green Investment: Moldova approved incentives to cut import duties on storage batteries and wind turbines and enable VAT refunds for energy storage investments, alongside a new 30 MW solar park with 60 MWh battery storage planned for Vadul lui Vodă. Agriculture: Moldova’s walnut sector marked its 20th anniversary, with exports topping $40 million annually and plans to modernize plantations and boost value-added production.

Ukraine War Spillover: A Russian drone hit an apartment block in Romania’s Galați early Friday, injuring a 14-year-old boy and a 53-year-old woman and sparking a fire; Romania summoned the Russian ambassador and convened a national defense council, while NATO and EU leaders condemned Moscow’s “reckless” escalation and warned about risks on the eastern flank. Moldova Reacts: President Maia Sandu said Russia is “a danger to all” and urged solidarity with Romania, while PM Alexandru Munteanu and Speaker Igor Grosu called the strike a grim reminder that the war is dangerously close to Moldova. Regional Security & Diplomacy: Interim Romanian PM Ilie Bolojan is set to visit Chisinau to meet Sandu and PM Alexandru Munteanu, focusing on joint projects and cooperation. Transport Oversight: Moldova’s National Road Transport Agency launched intensified inspections of heavy trucks to enforce permitted weight limits and protect roads, especially during heatwave conditions. EU Path & Finance: Moldova’s Finance Ministry is drafting a bill to harmonize company reorganization taxation with an EU directive, aiming to clarify VAT and real-estate tax treatment. Local Politics: Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu said Gagauzia elections must follow Moldovan law, rejecting any “interference” or separate standards.

Cybersecurity: Dutch police seized 800 servers and arrested two men tied to hosting infrastructure allegedly used by a Kremlin-linked hacking network, with the trail pointing to sanctions-evading entities connected to EU-blacklisted Moldovan brothers. Gagauzia & Justice: Moldova’s Court of Appeal upheld the prison sentence of Gagauzia governor Evghenia Gutul and former Shor secretary Svetlana Popan, rejecting their appeal. EU & Security Diplomacy: President Maia Sandu met U.S. Senator Mark Kelly and Konrad Adenauer Foundation chair Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, discussing hybrid threats, cybersecurity funding, and Moldova’s EU path. Local Governance: Over 400 mayors and partners will gather in Chisinau on May 29 for “Strong Mayoralties – Developed Settlements,” with Romania’s acting PM Ilie Bolojan attending. Economy & Law: The Finance Ministry is drafting a bill to harmonize company reorganization taxation with an EU directive. Education: Deputy Speaker Doina Gherman urged graduates to study in Moldova, citing improved university standards and scholarships. Transport: Moldova’s carriers received 300 more transit permits to Azerbaijan valid until Jan 31, 2027.

Russian Citizenship Warning: Foreign Minister Mihai Popsoi urged Moldovans “on both banks” to treat Russian citizenship offers with “maximum caution,” saying the Kremlin’s move is risky and Moldova’s EU-bound passport brings growing benefits. Gagauzia Court Fight: Jailed Gagauzia leader Evghenia Gutul published prison letters as Moldova weighs her appeal against a seven-year sentence, with supporters calling it political persecution. Transnistria Mood Check: A new iData survey says 44.2% back full reintegration, while 17.9% want the status quo; most also support Romanian-language education and withdrawing foreign troops. Electoral Integrity: The Central Electoral Commission sanctioned officials tied to May 17 local elections after irregularities in supplementary voter lists. Media Rules Update: The government endorsed a draft new media law to modernize Moldova’s media framework and align it with European standards. Energy Focus: Officials say there’s no immediate threat to gas, electricity or fuel, while the Vulcanesti–Chisinau power line must meet end-June deadlines. Diplomacy & Culture: Moldova opened its first UK honorary consulate in Manchester; Culture Minister Cristian Jardan said Russian artists aren’t banned, but participation depends on their stance on the war.

Moldova’s EU-facing diplomacy: President Maia Sandu met Georgia’s Salomé Zourabichvili and awarded her the Order of the Republic, reaffirming support for Georgia’s sovereignty and European future. Reintegration & security ties: Deputy PM for reintegration Valeriu Chiveri met Estonia’s national defence committee chair, discussing Transnistria and regional security while stressing Moldova’s European path. Media reform: The government endorsed a draft new media law to replace the 1994 press law, aiming to modernize rules for digital platforms, ownership transparency, pluralism, editorial independence and the fight against disinformation. Energy resilience: Energy Minister Dorin Junghietu urged meeting deadlines to energize the Vulcanesti–Chisinau power line and warned of penalties for delays; the National Security Council also said there is no immediate threat to gas, electricity or fuel supply. Cyber & sanctions pressure: Dutch authorities seized 800 servers tied to Russian hacking infrastructure and arrested two men linked to sanctions-evading hosting services. Romania-Moldova cooperation: Romania suspended 2026 project funding for Moldova after a court decision, while Moldova opened its first Honorary Consulate in the UK (Manchester). Citizenship updates: Sandu restored Moldovan citizenship to former Romanian president Traian Băsescu, and published amendments to the Citizenship Law for documenting people without IDs up to age 18. Economy & jobs: Fitch forecasts 3% average growth in 2026–2027, and a job fair will offer 2,000+ vacancies in Chisinau.

Diplomatic Reset: President Maia Sandu received letters of credence from seven new ambassadors and met Austrian parliamentarians, stressing Austria’s support for Moldova’s EU path and investment projects. Citizenship & Identity: Sandu signed a decree restoring Moldovan citizenship to former Romanian president Traian Băsescu, after it was revoked in 2017. Legal Updates: Amendments to Moldova’s Citizenship Law entered into force, setting rules for documenting citizens who lacked identity documents before age 18. Social Protection for Diaspora: Moldova approved ratification of a Canada social security deal so people who worked legally in Canada can receive pensions and other benefits. Local Governance: The government will host “Strong Mayors, Developed Localities” in Chisinau on May 29, with Romanian PM Ilie Bolojan as a guest. Security & Energy: The National Security Council said there is no immediate threat to gas, electricity or fuel supply, while reviewing key transmission projects. Sanctions Pressure: The UK announced new measures targeting Russia’s sanctions-evasion networks, including crypto and illicit finance channels. Jobs & Education: A job fair in Chisinau will offer 2,000+ vacancies, while teachers are set to train in digital skills and AI in South Korea.

EU Integration Push: Moldova’s “gradual integration” plan is tied to the EU Growth Plan, with money linked to reforms and step-by-step access to areas like the Single Market, energy and digital rules. Energy Security Watch: President Sandu convened the National Security Council over volatile energy markets, saying there’s “no immediate threat” to gas, electricity or fuel—while deadlines for key transmission lines, storage and efficiency projects are under review. Citizenship and Politics: Sandu restored Moldovan citizenship to former Romanian president Traian Băsescu, reversing a 2017 revocation by Igor Dodon, as Băsescu pledged continued support for EU integration. Judicial Pressure: The Bank Fraud case heads to Moldova’s Court of Appeal, where prosecutors seek 25 years for Vladimir Plahotniuc. Education and Skills: Teachers will be trained in digital technologies and AI in South Korea, and Moldova’s education system is undergoing major reforms. Cyber and Sanctions: The UK targeted crypto networks helping Russia evade sanctions, while the Netherlands arrested people behind bulletproof hosting used by Russian hackers. Economy and Jobs: The World Bank forecasts slower growth in 2026 to 1.9%, and a job fair in Chisinau will offer 2,000+ vacancies.