Why Moldova is second on Putin’s list: what The New York Times learned the Kremlin’s plan to ‘collapse’ NATO and the EU from within

Vladimir Putin gathered his military commanders for a briefing in late 2025 and set a goal for 2026: “the collapse of NATO and the EU from within,” The New York Times reported, citing officials from two countries familiar with the details of the meeting.

Moldova is emerging as a key target in Russia’s reported strategy to undermine NATO and the EU, with Western intelligence warning that Vladimir Putin could seek control of the country after Ukraine. Its strategic location, Russian troops in Transnistria and energy vulnerabilities make Moldova a potential launchpad for