Study: Russia is attempting to destabilize Moldova
In 2017, the Russian Federation will try to destabilize the situation in Moldova, either by using its loyal political forces or by the "resuscitation" of the so-called “Kozak Memorandum” on the Transnistrian settlement, which may lead to the federalization of Moldova. This was stated in the study "Risks of 2017" presented by the Institute for Development and Social Initiatives Viitorul, in Chisinau, as the Ukrinform reported.
"Russia doesn't have many tools of political influence in Moldova, but it is seriously investing in the Moldovan media, and has a certain influence on a part of a political elite that is loyal to Russia. Also, there are certain risks in the resuscitation of the famous ‘Kozak Memorandum,’ the real purpose of which is the federalization of Moldova. Thus, for the destabilization of the situation, the so-called ‘political hackers’ could be used,'' the authors of the study stress.
The experts also draw attention to the fact that Russia, does not have the funds to aid the unrecognized Transnistria and that is why it will try to promote the idea of the federalization by granting Transnistria a special status within the Federative Republic of Moldova.
In 2003, on the initiative of the Russian politician, Dmitry Kozak, Russia prepared the "Kozak Memorandum." The Leaders of Moldova refused to sign it then, referring to the fact that the document harbors risks to the national security.
The President of Moldova, Igor Dodon, during a visit to Moscow in January, mentioned the possible resuscitation of the "Kozak Memorandum."