Kallas proposes doubling EU defense funding for Moldova – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Pexels)
Chișinău – European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas proposed on Friday that the bloc double its annual defense support for Moldova through the European Peace Facility. The move would raise funding to €120 million a year and mark the largest such package for any country outside Ukraine. Kallas made the announcement during a joint appearance with Moldovan President Maia Sandu, framing the increase as essential amid ongoing Russian pressure on the country.
Scale of the New Funding Package
The proposal builds on €200 million in assistance already delivered to Moldova through the same facility. If approved, the annual €120 million allocation would surpass every prior EU defense support measure for non-Ukrainian recipients. Kallas described the step as a direct response to Moldova’s security needs, noting that the country has become the first non-EU state to sign a formal security and defense partnership with the bloc.
She also highlighted the recent arrival of an EU-funded radar system that improves Moldova’s ability to track Russian drone activity near its borders. The equipment forms part of a wider effort to strengthen detection capabilities against incursions that have repeatedly entered Moldovan airspace.
Russian Hybrid Pressure on Moldova
Kallas pointed to sustained Russian hybrid operations targeting Moldova, including strikes on energy infrastructure and repeated drone flights over its territory. These actions occur against the backdrop of Russia’s full-scale invasion of neighboring Ukraine, which has left Moldova exposed to spillover effects. The diplomat said the proposed funding increase would help the country harden its defenses and reduce vulnerability to such tactics.
Moldova’s position has drawn growing attention in Brussels as the EU seeks to extend stability along its eastern flank. The second EU-Moldova summit, expected later this year, is intended to advance cooperation on security and other shared priorities, though no date has been set.
Approval Hurdles Ahead
Any expansion of European Peace Facility spending requires unanimous consent from all EU member states. Past disagreements have delayed disbursements, with Hungary under former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán repeatedly blocking releases and France and Germany raising technical concerns at earlier stages. Kallas acknowledged that the new proposal must still clear these political and procedural steps before funds can flow.
Despite those obstacles, the diplomat stressed that Moldova already belongs to the European community and that deeper defense ties reflect a long-term commitment. The proposal now moves to member capitals for discussion and potential endorsement.
