"Moldova-France Defense Pact: Countering Russian Threats"

Moldova's President Maia Sandu signed a defense cooperation accord with France, citing concerns about Russia's efforts to destabilize her country and warning that if President Vladimir Putin was not stopped in Ukraine, he would continue advancing. The agreement includes provisions for training, dialogue, and intelligence sharing, with France also planning to open a defense mission in Moldova's capital. Sandu accused Russia of attempting to control Moldova through various means, including energy blackmail, disinformation campaigns, and election interference, but emphasized her country's determination to stand tall.