Editor’s note: This article was published as part of the Fighting Against Conspiracy and Trolls (FACT) project, an independent, non-partisan hub launched in mid-2025 under the umbrella of the EU Digital Media Observatory (EDMO). Click here to follow the latest stories from our hub on disinformation.
Russia and its state-backed media outlets are intensifying disinformation campaigns in Transnistria ahead of Moldova’s elections, according to the latest analysis from the FACT project. The report highlights how these efforts are designed to exacerbate existing tensions in the breakaway region, which has long been a flashpoint for geopolitical conflicts. The analysis warns that the timing of these disinformation tactics is particularly concerning as Moldova heads toward a critical electoral period, with potential implications for the country’s political stability.
Transnistria, a self-proclaimed republic largely supported by Russia, has been a focal point of diplomatic efforts between Moldova, Russia, and the European Union. The current disinformation campaigns are seen as a strategic move to sow discord among Moldova’s voters, potentially influencing the outcome of the elections. The report urges increased media literacy and transparency measures to counter the spread of false information that could undermine the legitimacy of Moldova’s democratic process.
The FACT project emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in combating disinformation, particularly in regions with complex political landscapes. As the election date approaches, the analysis calls for stricter regulation of online platforms and enhanced monitoring of Russian state media to prevent further destabilization of the region. This ongoing situation underscores the broader challenge of safeguarding democratic institutions against hybrid threats in Eastern Europe.