Zelenskyy Visits Moldova for Independence Day Talks With Sandu on Security and Energy
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Moldova on August 27 for the country’s Independence Day celebrations, holding talks with Moldovan President Maia Sandu as Kyiv and Chișinău seek closer cooperation on security, energy and infrastructure.
Zelenskyy said the discussions in Chișinău were focused on strengthening shared capabilities and improving cooperation between the two neighbouring countries. He also emphasized the importance of standing together at a time when both Ukraine and Moldova face regional security challenges.
Three-Way Meeting With Romania
Zelenskyy’s visit includes a meeting with Sandu followed by a trilateral discussion involving Romanian President Nicușor Dan. Moldova’s presidency confirmed that the three leaders were scheduled to meet in Chișinău during celebrations marking the 35th anniversary of Moldova’s independence.
The Moldovan government said the national celebrations on August 27 include a major military parade in Chișinău, involving more than 2,000 service members and over 100 units of military and special equipment.
Moldova declared independence on August 27, 1991, following the adoption of its Declaration of Independence by parliament.
Security Cooperation Takes Centre Stage
Security is expected to remain one of the central issues in discussions between Ukraine and Moldova. The countries share a border, while Russia’s war against Ukraine has created broader security concerns across the region.
Zelenskyy and Sandu have previously discussed closer cooperation on security, border infrastructure and the protection of critical infrastructure. Kyiv has also expressed support for Moldova’s security interests, including issues connected with the separatist Transnistrian region.
The Ukrainian president has repeatedly stressed that cooperation between neighbouring countries is becoming increasingly important as the war continues.
Energy and Infrastructure Also on the Agenda
Energy cooperation is another major priority. Ukraine and Moldova have been working to strengthen connections between their energy systems and develop cross-border electricity infrastructure.
Earlier discussions between Zelenskyy and Sandu highlighted the importance of expanding electricity interconnections and improving infrastructure links between the two countries. Kyiv has argued that stronger energy connections can increase resilience and provide additional protection during periods of regional instability.
Transport and cross-border infrastructure are also expected to remain important areas of cooperation, particularly as Ukraine seeks stronger links with European markets.
Moldova Faces New Airspace Concerns
Zelenskyy’s visit comes on a day when Moldova has raised concerns over the presence of Russian drones in its airspace.
Sandu said several drones entered Moldovan airspace during a Russian aerial attack on Ukraine in the early hours of August 27. She described the incidents as an act of intimidation and reiterated Moldova’s commitment to remaining independent and pursuing its European path.
The incidents add another layer of urgency to discussions about regional security and cooperation between Moldova, Ukraine and Romania.
Stronger Regional Partnership
The visit highlights the increasingly close relationship between Kyiv and Chișinău. Both governments have emphasized cooperation in security, energy, infrastructure and European integration.
Ukraine has also backed Moldova’s ambitions for closer integration with the European Union. During an earlier meeting this year, Zelenskyy said the two countries could work toward making EU membership a shared success while developing stronger economic and infrastructure links.
For Moldova, the presence of the Ukrainian and Romanian presidents on Independence Day carries broader regional significance. For Ukraine, closer cooperation with its neighbours remains an important part of strengthening national resilience and regional security.
As Moldova marks 35 years of independence, the meetings in Chișinău underline how security, energy and European integration have become increasingly interconnected priorities for the countries of Eastern Europe.
