Russia’s hybrid warfare playbook now includes Moldova and the Balkans

Excerpt

Ukraine is not the only European nation whose sovereignty is threatened by Russia. Also threatened are Moldova and Kosovo, two small but decidedly pro-Western countries. They have not suffered the sort of lethal barrage battering Ukraine — at least not yet — but the threat to their future is ominous.

The Kremlin has exploited tensions in both countries to destabilize them and divert Western attention and resources from Ukraine.

Moscow appears especially intent on punishing Moldova, a small nation wedged between Ukraine and Romania, for its political independence and refusal to toe the Russian line. On Feb. 21, Vladimir Putin repealed a decree recognizing Moldova’s independence. Putin’s escalatory reactions to Moldova’s continued pro-West alignment have raised concerns he could be planning another invasion.