NATO does not violate Moldova's neutrality. The only country that does so is Russia.
Moldova's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mihai Popșoi, stated this, as reported by TV8.
"It is important to note that throughout 30 years of cooperation with NATO in many areas, the Alliance has always respected and will continue to respect our neutrality. The only country that does not respect and violates it is the Russian Federation," Popșoi emphasized.
The Foreign Minister reminded that Moscow undertook international obligations in 1999 to withdraw its troops from Moldovan territory and to eliminate ammunition depots in Colbasna, but has not fulfilled these commitments.
"This constitutes a direct violation of the neutrality of the Republic of Moldova," the minister stressed.
At the same time, he noted that Moldova will remain a neutral country as long as it corresponds to the will of its people.
"Most citizens believe that neutrality is a guarantee of security. Unfortunately, history often proves otherwise. However, the Republic of Moldova is a democratic country, and as long as the majority of citizens consider neutrality a positive factor for the country, this format will be preserved," assured Popșoi.
It is worth noting that Moldova's status of permanent neutrality is enshrined in Article 11 of its Constitution. This status prohibits joining military-political blocs and does not allow the presence of armed forces of other states on its territory.
