Commissioner Kubilius: "Moldova is the place where the victory against hybrid warfare began." The EU promises full support and sees possible accession before 2030.
Chisinau, November 18, 2025 – The European Union has sent one of the clearest and harshest political messages so far regarding the security of the Republic of Moldova, through the intervention of Commissioner Andrius Kubilius at the Moldova Security Forum 2025. In a pre-recorded speech, the European official praised Moldova's resilience in the face of Russian pressures, presented the country as an example for the entire Union, and emphasized that EU enlargement is essential for the security of the continent.
The Commissioner stated that Moldova "did not waver" when Russia cut off its gas and neither when "millions of Russian rubles" were used to disrupt democratic processes. "You defended the hearts and minds of citizens against massive hybrid attacks," said Kubilius, highlighting that Moldovan institutions have demonstrated maturity and operational effectiveness in a "brutal hybrid war" waged against the country's democracy. According to the Commissioner, popular support for the European vector in elections represents "a passed test" and proof of the society's resilience.
The central message of his intervention was one with a strong geopolitical charge: "Touch Moldova, and you touch the European Union!" Kubilius conveyed that the EU cannot be limited to statements of concern regarding the hybrid war, but must adopt a firm reaction, based on the actions of institutions and the strengthening of operational tools. "Moldova has shown us what works," he said, referring to the role of the police, prosecution, and justice in dismantling networks that seek to undermine democracy.
In a rare message for a Commission official, Kubilius stated that the history of defense against hybrid warfare will record that victory "began in Moldova," presenting the country as a provider of lessons for the entire Union. He emphasized that, under the conditions of intensified hybrid challenges – from drones to weather balloons disrupting civil operations in Europe – the EU has "much to learn" from Chisinau's experience.
Kubilius also highlighted the substantial support of the Union for strengthening Moldova's security and resilience. Since 2021, the EU has provided over 2 billion euros in financial assistance to the country, and through the European Peace Facility, Moldova has received nearly 200 million euros, becoming the largest beneficiary after Ukraine. The funds are specifically aimed at air defense, military transport, and training, to strengthen self-defense and deterrence capabilities. The Commissioner specified that EU sanctions target actors who seek to destabilize the country.
In political terms, the Commissioner reiterated that Moldova is "making excellent progress" and indicated the real possibility that the country could join the European Union before 2030, an ambitious timeline that depends both on internal reforms and the necessary transformations in the EU's institutional architecture. "Not only will you need us, but we also need you," said Kubilius, emphasizing that a larger Union is simultaneously "stronger and safer."
The message concluded with a reaffirmation of Brussels' political commitment to Chisinau and Kiev: "Moldova and Ukraine belong to the European Union. Let us together make the next reunification of Europe." For the officials present at the Forum, the Commissioner's intervention unequivocally marked that Moldova's security is now viewed as an integral part of European security.
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