Russian President Vladimir Putin detailed a plan to destabilize the government of Moldova in a document obtained by Yahoo News, showing Putin intends to wreak havoc in the region as a challenge to NATO and EU influence.  Developed by the Kremlin’s euphemistically-named Presidential Directorate for Cross-Border Cooperation, the plan notes goals for 2022, meaning it was likely drafted at some time in 2021.  According to the plan, Russia would have a Kremlin-friendly regime in Chișinău by 2030.

Indications are Russia has started its operation, with scores of Russians, including at least one member of the mercenary Wagner Group, being stopped illegally trying to cross into Moldova.  Two days after US officials publicly warned of foul play in the European nation, thousands of protesters calling for the ouster of the current government filled the streets of the capital demonstrating against the current administration’s pro-Western policies.  The document is similar to one outlining the Kremlin’s plan to take over Belarus, which has been assisted by the pro-Putin regime currently leading that nation.

Moldova is in a difficult position politically and geographically:  It’s got EU and NATO member Romania along its western border, while its remaining border abuts Ukraine.  Plus, a strip of land along its Ukraine is the breakaway territory known as Transnistria is currently occupied by a force of Russian peacekeepers stationed there since an early 1990s revolt forced out Moldovan officials and the region declared itself independent.  Currently, the European Council classifies the region as occupied by Russia.