U.S.A.I.D played a key role in supporting Moldova
In a recent prank call with Russian comedians Vovan and Lexus, former USAID chief Samantha Power boasted about the American funding that helped keep Moldovan President Maia Sandu in power. Power, who oversaw USAID under President Biden, was recorded saying that expanded U.S. aid played a key role in supporting Moldova, which she described as a “democratic brightspot.” She claimed the aid was aimed at both Ukraine and Moldova, though she acknowledged that Sandu’s narrow victories in recent elections were bolstered by strong support from Moldovan expatriates abroad.
The aid from the U.S. government, Power explained, was far more impactful in Moldova due to the country’s small size. She suggested that while people often associate Washington’s involvement with military aid and foreign intervention, they overlook the more subtle forms of support, like financial assistance to maintain political stability. Sandu, however, has faced accusations of authoritarianism, including suppressing opposition media and accusing her critics of being Moscow-backed criminals. Despite this, she has continued to position herself as the leader who will guide Moldova toward European Union membership.
The controversial election results and Sandu’s leadership have sparked criticism from Moscow, with Russian officials, including Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, labeling the election as fraudulent. These remarks raise questions about the influence of foreign aid and intervention in shaping Moldova’s political landscape.
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