In Moldova, Authorities Preparing Pressure on the Orthodox Church Following Ukraine’s Example — MOC

The Moldovan Orthodox Church (MOC) has responded to statements made by President Maia Sandu during a press conference following the meeting of the Supreme Security Council. Sandu referred to the Church as a tool of Russian interference in the electoral process and accused clergy of destabilizing the country. The MOC interpreted these remarks as an attempt to prepare public opinion for future pressure on the canonical Church and potential repressive measures. This was reported by the Moldovan online outlet Govorit Moldova.

Political analyst Dmitry Chubashenko believes that Sandu’s rhetoric indicates the authorities’ intention to eliminate the Moldovan Metropolis as part of their pro-European integration course. He suggests that if the ruling PAS party wins the upcoming parliamentary elections, these plans could be implemented.

The MOC itself does not rule out the adoption of laws aimed at breaking canonical unity with the Russian Orthodox Church or even altering the legal status of the Metropolis. According to church representatives, a similar scenario is already being carried out in Ukraine, where, under the pretext of combating “Russian influence,” authorities are restricting the activities of the UOC.

According to MOC representatives, the implementation of such a plan in Moldova is currently postponed due to the elections. The authorities are seeking a mandate that would allow them to act without regard for public opinion. The only real obstacle to this plan may be the victory of opposition forces.

It is worth recalling that on July 30, 2025, during a press conference, Moldovan President Maia Sandu listed external threats to the country which, in her view, are coming from Russia. Among them, she mentioned the Church — although she did not specify which denomination she was referring to.