The Russian ambassador to Bucharest, Vladimir Lipaev: "Romania cannot allow the union with Moldova"

The Russian ambassador to Romania, Vladimir Lipaev, discussed in an interview with the Russian agency TASS the prospects of uniting Romania with Moldova, stating that the idea is not supported by the Moldovan population, which remembers the Romanian occupations of the 20th century. He accuses the political elite in Chișinău of "Romanianization" of society and emphasizes that the majority of Romanians perceive unification as a nationalist narrative, but are aware of the differences between desires and reality.

"However, in Bucharest, there is still an awareness of the difference between what is desired and what is possible. The official narrative is that first Moldovans themselves must express their support for unification, and then we will see. It is worth reminding that contemporary Moldova is one of the poorest countries in Europe, largely due to the policies of the (President Maia) Sandu team. Therefore, there is a fear here that the Romanian budget simply will not support the expenses related to unification," said Vladimir Lipaev in the interview.

Lipaev also criticized the Romanian Orthodox Church for its influence in Moldova, suggesting that it contributes to the ecclesiastical schism. He also warned that Romania could be used by NATO as a starting point for a conflict with Russia, emphasizing that military aid to Ukraine generates fatigue among the Romanian population. The ambassador also mentioned the impact of EU sanctions on the Romanian economy, suggesting that Romania suffers from the lack of trade with Russia.

In the end, he accused the Romanian authorities of difficulties in diplomatic relations due to external influences.