The article by the Robert Lansing Institute dated October 13, 2025, details a comprehensive hybrid war campaign by Russia against Moldova, aimed at undermining the country’s westward political alignment and NATO/EU integration efforts. This hybrid offensive encompasses multiple tactics including disinformation campaigns, political and legal subversion, support for pro-Russian proxy groups, infiltration by intelligence operatives, and economic pressure. Russian state media and officials, including Dmitry Peskov, are cited as part of the Kremlin’s narrative efforts. The offensive exploits Moldova’s internal vulnerabilities, notably in the breakaway Transnistria region where Russian-backed forces pose a persistent destabilizing threat. The hybrid warfare effort is part of Moscow’s broader strategy in the region to prevent NATO expansion and maintain influence. The report warns that Moscow has shifted from issuing warnings to actively conducting hybrid warfare operations, which includes coordinated propaganda, cyber operations, and paramilitary provocations. The article underscores the importance of Western support for Moldova’s defense and resilience-building against these hybrid threats.
Category: Military & Paramilitary Operations
Subcategory: Unconventional / Paramilitary
Incident Type: Proxy forces, militias, mercenaries (e.g. Wagner-type groups)
Country: Moldova
Source report: lansinginstitute.org/2025/10/1…
