Disinformation on Telegram invokes Maia Sandu, Nicușor Dan — vigilance urged
Every day, we are confronted with fake news and disinformation campaigns. Authorities in Chisinau have cautioned citizens about the spread of false information on social media and are actively working to combat efforts that aim to instil fear and create distrust among the population.
“Please be careful. These days, misinformation continues to circulate on Telegram, fostering fear and distrust among the public. The Republic of Moldova is a neutral country and will remain so. All claims about alleged agreements to send troops are blatant lies,” stated the Presidential Spokesperson, Igor Zaharov, on his Telegram channel.
A message and an audio recording are currently circulating online, presented as “a secret conversation between Romanian President Nicușor Dan and Moldovan President Maia Sandu,” which allegedly was “recorded by individuals.”
In the supposed telephone conversation, President Nicușor Dan “claims” that French President Emmanuel Macron “provided him with instructions for preparation.” The conversation also suggests that “after the elections in Moldova, approximately 20,000 Romanian soldiers, along with Moldovan security forces, will be sent to Ukraine to engage in combat actions.”
“Let’s not be fooled—our truth and unity are our best defense,” emphasized Igor Zaharov, representative of the Presidency.
For several years, the Republic of Moldova has been a target of disinformation campaigns that intensify during election periods and aim to instill fear among the population.
Just this week, authorities have addressed at least five instances of fake news, one of which originated from the Russian Federation's Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR). This false report claimed that the European Union and NATO were planning the “occupation of Moldova.”
The Ministry of Education also alerted the public about the spread of a false message allegedly signed by a ministry employee, which was sent to school and university administrators to disrupt their operations.
Additionally, the Audiovisual Council informed citizens that no institution in the Republic of Moldova has banned the broadcasting of the Soviet-made feature film "Ivan Vasilievich Changes His Profession" ("Иван Васильевич меняет профессию"), contrary to false claims circulated in the Russian media.
