WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) introduced a resolution yesterday expressing support for Romania and Moldova as both countries work to combat Russian interference ahead of upcoming elections.

The resolution commends Romania and Moldova for their steadfast commitment to strengthening democratic values, deepening their European integration, and their commitment to regional security in the face of sustained Russian pressure campaigns.

“Romania and Moldova are critical U.S. partners that make substantial contributions to security and sovereignty across eastern Europe,” said Senator Coons. “Romania is one of our most important NATO allies and largest alliance contributors, while Moldova is steadfast in its commitment to joining the European Union. When I visited the region earlier this year, I saw clearly how both are facing intense coercion efforts from Russia, including the weaponization of energy flows and systemic election interference campaigns. This resolution makes clear that the United Stares stands against Putin’s attempts to meddle in their elections and upend their democracies while reiterating our support for their sustained partnerships.”

“Romania and Moldova are key U.S. allies, with Moldova partnered with North Carolina through the State Partnership Program, at a pivotal moment for democracy in Eastern Europe,” said Senator Tillis. “As both nations confront efforts by Russia to erode democratic institutions and exert undue influence, the United States must reaffirm its commitment to their sovereignty and political independence. Strengthening these partnerships is vital to preserving democratic governance and regional stability.”

Senator Coons recently visited Romania and Moldova as part of a congressional delegation, where he witnessed firsthand Russia’s ongoing interference—including election interference, disinformation campaigns, and the weaponization of energy supplies. Due to blatant election interference by Russia, Romania’s presidential election in November was annulled, and the election will be rerun this weekend. 

The resolution applauds Romania’s role within NATO and as a member of the European Union, as well as its critical support to Ukraine since Russia’s unprovoked war. It also supports Moldova’s referendum to join the European Union and thanks the country for its ongoing assistance to Ukraine. 

Specifically, the resolution:

  • Calls on the U.S. government to deepen bilateral and multilateral engagements with Romania and Moldova in support of democracy and state sovereignty in eastern Europe
  • Applauds the partnership between Romania and Moldova in the energy sector as a model of reducing reliance on Russian energy exports
  • Supports Romania’s role in strengthening NATO and Moldova’s aspirations to join the European Union
  • Condemns Russia’s coercion campaigns in democratic sovereign states, including Romania and Moldova
  • Asks for greater international support ahead of Romania’s presidential election and Moldova’s parliamentary elections in 2025

Senator Coons is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

You can read the resolution text here.