Russian airstrikes plunge Moldova into darkness as blackout shocks civilians

Moldova has long existed in the shadow of the war next door, assuming that distance and neutrality would be enough to keep the conflict at arm’s length. That assumption is now breaking down as the effects of Russia’s campaign spill across borders without warning. Energy systems, airspace, and civilian life have emerged as the most vulnerable points, where pressure can be applied without a formal declaration of escalation. Events that originate on Ukrainian territory are increasingly shaping Moldova’s internal stability and sense of security. This erosion of the buffer between war and peace is forcing a reassessment of who actually provides protection in the region. As a result, Moldova is being pushed from passive neutrality toward hard choices about alignment and resilience.

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