Moldova: Constraints Prevent Larger Shift Toward Romania

Moldovan Defense Minister Vitalie Marinuta said May 23 that Moldova could become an indirect partner in the construction of a missile shield in Europe and receive warning data from radars in neighboring Romania. Since the election of a Europe-oriented president March 16 broke Moldova's long-standing political deadlock, there have been several indications that Moldova is working more closely with the West — and specifically with Romania. However, several constraints could block Chisinau from shifting further toward the West, meaning Moldova likely will remain split in its orientation between the West and Russia.