The Republic of Moldova Joins the “Coalition of the Willing”

A Smart Decision at a Critical Moment for the Region

Editorial by Daniel Vodă, Associated Senior Expert at IPRE

It was recently announced that the Republic of Moldova is joining the “Coalition of the Willing” for Ukraine. This is a development worth explaining more clearly both in terms of what it means and why it is a smart decision for our country.

First, in simple terms: the “Coalition of the Willing” brings together states that aim to support Ukraine. Most are European either members of the European Union, such as France, Germany, Romania, Poland, and Bulgaria, or non-EU countries like Norway and the United Kingdom. Some are NATO members, others are not. The group also includes key global partners such as Canada, Australia, and Japan.

The shared objective is clear: to build security guarantees for Ukraine once peace is achieved, ensuring that the country does not find itself in the same situation again. Why does this matter for us, in the Republic of Moldova? For several very concrete reasons.

First, there is the geopolitical dimension. Europe is taking on an increasingly prominent role in Ukraine’s security, and key decisions are being shaped within flexible formats such as this one. By participating, Moldova is present at the table where the future of the region, our region, is being discussed. We gain access to information, coordination, and real conversations on security. It is the difference between observing developments from the outside and actively shaping them. I support the latter approach.

Second, the Republic of Moldova brings real value. Our military are highly trained in demining. In post-war Ukraine, demining will be one of the most pressing challenges. This is about saving lives, restoring normalcy, and enabling reconstruction. Moldova can make a direct contribution here. We are not only participating, we are helping in practical terms.

A third element relates to technology, particularly drones. The war in Ukraine has demonstrated their importance. Drones are used not only for security purposes but also for agriculture, monitoring, and civil response. Through cooperation, Moldova can learn quickly, adopt best practices, and develop its own capabilities. This translates into stronger protection and better preparedness for the future. For a small country, this is a smart direction.

Fourth, this is about sovereignty. The Republic of Moldova is acting in line with its own interests and strategic documents. It is building its security step by step and deepening cooperation with Ukraine from training to defence industry cooperation and intelligence exchange. This reflects a mature and planned approach. Neutral countries such as Ireland and Austria are pursuing similar paths.

Finally, there is an economic dimension. Ukraine’s security has a direct impact on regional stability. A stable Ukraine means fewer risks for the Republic of Moldova across the economy, investment climate, and infrastructure. Participation in such formats also supports diversification and strengthens our international positioning. It forms the basis of a responsible foreign policy, promoted by the Presidency.

The decision itself is sound. The natural next step is to ensure broader public understanding within the country. The discussion on concrete actions should be brought into Parliament. Members of Parliament need to be clearly informed about the action plan and the next steps. This strengthens transparency and limits space for misinterpretation or manipulation, which has already surfaced in public discourse. Just as Moldovan military professionally defuses dangerous explosives and contributes to peace, political leaders and responsible institutions are called upon to communicate clearly and engage all parliamentary and extra-parliamentary forces in an open dialogue. This helps ensure that a beneficial decision for the country is properly understood by society.

The reasons are outlined above, but the broader point remains simple: the Republic of Moldova has chosen to be present where the region’s security is being discussed. It has chosen to contribute with what it does best, within its constitutional framework. That deserves to be explained more often.

---

Daniel Vodă is an Associated Senior Expert in foreign policy and strategic communication at the Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE). He previously served as spokesperson for the Government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration of the Republic of Moldova.