Moldovan armed forces will need continued NATO support

Subject

Moldova's armed forces.

Significance

Russia's military build-up in Crimea and other parts of the continent, combined with its intervention in Syria, continue to alarm nations in Eastern Europe. With Moscow maintaining a military contingent in Transnistria and its growing military presence regionally, Moldova's armed forces and their relations with NATO will come under greater focus. However, Moldova's financial plight will make military reform and boosting defence spending difficult.

Impacts

• The banking scandal that has rocked the political scene will push defence reform lower down the political agenda.
• A more militarily capable Moldova would be a useful partner for Ukraine in the future.
• Moldova may be invited to participate in more NATO exercises to enhance capacity-building measures.