Show notes
Moldova has resisted Russian interference and maintained itsEuropean course. But can it secure its future in the EU before geopolitical pressures and domestic challenges threaten its progress?In this episode second part of Talk Eastern Europe’s focuson Moldova, Alexandra Karppi speaks with Anastasia Pociumban, Research Fellow at the German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP), about Moldova's changing geopolitical position, its relationship with Ukraine, and the uncertain future of EU enlargement.After navigating Russian election interference, economicpressures and political scandals, Moldova faces a crucial moment. Its European ambitions are closely linked to Ukraine, while Russia continues to pose security threats across the region. Meanwhile, developments in Transnistria are reshaping a conflict long considered frozen.But there is another question: Is the European Union itself ready for enlargement?Drawing lessons from Georgia and the Western Balkans, Alexandra and Anastasia explore what could happen if the EU fails to deliver on its promises — and why the costs of leaving Moldova and Ukraine in a geopolitical grey zone could be far greater than Europe realises.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction: Moldova's geopolitical crossroads00:50 – Political scandals and public confidence in Moldova05:34 – How Moldova resisted Russian interference10:13 – Can Moldova and Ukraine take different paths to EU membership?14:29 – Why Ukraine is crucial to Moldova's security18:45 – Transnistria: Is the frozen conflict beginning to change?22:26 – Is the EU ready for enlargement?26:53 – Georgia's warning for Moldova and Europe29:55 – Can Moldova sustain its European momentum?Check out Part One of our focus on Moldova with David Smith:https://youtu.be/7HupaWRS-7c?si=Dyhxl7h_U0CmGJS7Subscribe to Talk Eastern Europe for in-depth conversationsabout the politics, security and future of Eastern Europe.#Moldova #EuropeanUnion #Russia #Ukraine #EUE nlargement#Transnistria #TalkEasternEurope