Russia says Moldova's plans to merge with Romania would destroy its statehood


Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov speaks during his annual press conference in Moscow, Russia January 20, 2026. REUTERS/Shamil Zhumatov

MOSCOW, Jan ‌20 (Reuters) - Russian Foreign Minister Sergei ‌Lavrov said on Tuesday that ‌plans floated by Moldova's president to hold a referendum on reunification with ‍Romania would be destructive ‍to Moldovan statehood.

President Maia ‌Sandu said last week she would ‍vote ​in favour of unification with neighbouring Romania ⁠if a referendum were to take ‌place, to help protect Moldova's fragile ⁠democracy against ‍Russian pressure. Romania is an EU and NATO member.

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