The UK Foreign Secretary outlines plans to bolster Moldova’s defences, alongside Ukraine, to counter Russia’s expansionist ambitions.

UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss has called for Moldova to be “equipped to NATO standard” as part of efforts to protect the country from potential Russian aggression. In an interview with The Telegraph, Truss emphasised that discussions are ongoing with allies about supporting Moldova’s defences, particularly in light of Vladimir Putin’s clear ambitions to expand Russian influence.

Moldova, a non-NATO member, faces increasing security threats from Russia, especially as the conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate. Truss explained that the UK’s priority is to ensure Ukraine’s long-term ability to defend itself, which she believes should extend to neighbouring countries like Moldova, which remain vulnerable to Russian expansionism.

The Foreign Secretary noted that the UK, along with its partners, is working on a joint commission with Ukraine and Poland to enhance Ukraine’s defences to NATO standards. Truss elaborated: “Our focus is on upgrading Ukrainian defences to NATO standards, understanding what the Ukrainians need, and how to maintain that capability long-term.”

In response to questions on whether Western weapons and intelligence should be provided to Moldova, Truss firmly stated: “I want to see Moldova equipped to NATO standard. This is an ongoing discussion we are having with our allies.” She made it clear that the growing security threat from Russia necessitates such support, stressing that Putin’s ambitions to expand Russia’s influence have not been abandoned, despite setbacks in Kyiv.

Sources suggest that NATO standards would include supplying modern equipment to replace outdated Soviet-era gear and providing necessary training to Moldovan forces.

This call for stronger defences for Moldova comes as Prime Minister Boris Johnson also discussed the ongoing crisis in Ukraine with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, emphasising the importance of expanding NATO with the inclusion of Sweden and Finland.