EU plan to increase mobility of armed forces doesn’t provide for deployment in Moldova

The Speaker of Moldova’s Parliament, Igor Grosu, says that the new Action Plan for increasing the mobility of the armed forces proposed by the European Commission, which includes strengthening cooperation with Moldova, does not provide for the deployment of EU troops on its territory.

That’s according to NewsMaker, Ukrinform reports.

"After February 24, all of Europe is clearly aware of the reality in which we live. The Russian Federation grossly and irreparably violated all norms of international law. Everyone understands that they need to strengthen their defense capabilities: EU countries, neighboring states – Ukraine, and us. "Moldova (must strengthen its defense capability - ed.) because we are the first non-EU country on the border with Ukraine," Grosu noted.

When asked whether the authorities are considering the possibility of having EU troops deployed on the territory of Moldova, the speaker said it was not on the table.

"No, we are talking about troops stationed by NATO allies in Poland or Romania, the Baltic states. Moldova is a neutral country. It is not about placing these armed forces and equipment on our territory. We are talking about EU member states that are also NATO members," he clarified.

Earlier on November 10, the European Commission proposed a new Action Plan for increasing the mobility of European armed forces, which includes strengthening cooperation with NATO and partners, including Moldova.