Moldova Security Forum 2026: Moldova is NATO's largest defense funding recipient, aiming for strength and stability
The Republic of Moldova has become the largest recipient of funds for strengthening defense capabilities, being regarded by leaders of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the European Union (EU) as an experienced ally in countering hybrid warfare. International support focuses on modernizing the National Army and countering large-scale cyberattacks.
"We learn together, cooperate, support one another, and learn how to strengthen our resilience. The Republic of Moldova is an important part of this broader security network. Your country has become the largest recipient of funds under the Defence Capacity Building Initiative. You have received support totaling nearly 50 million euros. We do not view this as an act of charity. We want a strong, stable, and resilient Republic of Moldova that contributes to stability within the NATO area," stated Radmila Šekerinska, NATO Deputy Secretary General, on October 9, the second day of the Moldova Security Forum 2026.
According to the official, NATO has invested 12 million euros in modern equipment for the armed forces. Additionally, NATO allocated eight million euros for ammunition depots and four million euros for IT equipment and software designed to protect the integrity of electoral processes against cyberattacks.
Furthermore, the Armed Forces established a cyber incident response centre at the Technical University of Moldova.
At the same time, hundreds of researchers from the country have participated in NATO scientific programs, developing projects in areas such as counter-terrorism, cyber defense, and other strategic sectors.
NATO has also organized joint exercises to enhance the Republic of Moldova's capacity to protect itself against natural and technological disasters. "We have much to learn from you. The Republic of Moldova strengthens NATO by sharing extremely valuable lessons—lessons learned firsthand. The Republic of Moldova is a direct provider of security," stated the NATO Deputy Secretary General in Chișinău.
According to the senior NATO official, the Republic of Moldova understands the importance of resilience in the face of hybrid threats better than anyone else. That is why strategic partners are investing in the country's capacity to guarantee not only national security but also regional security.
"Putin’s regime has attempted to undermine free elections through disinformation campaigns and threats. It has launched cyberattacks and acts of sabotage against critical infrastructure. Despite these hostile actions, the Republic of Moldova has stood firm and demonstrated strength. Today, NATO allies and member states are increasingly facing the same hybrid attacks that the Republic of Moldova has endured for years. We remain united in protecting every inch of our territory," concluded Radmila Šekerinska.
The European Union will remain a reliable ally of the Republic of Moldova and supports the expansion of the European community through our country's integration, reiterated Andrius Kubilius, the European Commissioner for Defence and Space, in a video message sent from Brussels to participants at the Moldova Security Forum 2026.
"You are a close ally in foreign and security policy. You are a leader in the enlargement process. You are moving towards accession to the European Union, and the European future of the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine represents the greatest guarantee of peace in Europe. The success of the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine will show Russian citizens that there is a better path than the one promoted by Putin," Commissioner Andrius Kubilius said.
The Moldova Security Forum is an international dialogue platform dedicated to security challenges facing the Republic of Moldova, the Black Sea region, and Europe; it is organized by the Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE) with the support of over 40 partners from the Republic of Moldova, the European Union, and the United States.
The third edition of the event, held this year on October 8 and 9, brings together nearly 100 speakers from over 20 countries. The meeting's agenda includes discussions on hybrid threats, the war in Ukraine, regional security, drone defense, and democratic resilience.
This year's theme reflects how the Republic of Moldova contributes to its own security and regional security by strengthening democracy.
