Moldovan President Maia Sandu has told CNN that by fighting against Russia, Ukraine “is now defending the independence of Moldova as well”.  

"Ukraine today defends its own freedom, but it also defends the freedom of Moldova. We are very grateful to the brave Ukrainians, but the risks remain. Even when, thanks to Ukraine, there is no military threat today, we are facing a hybrid war," Sandu said.

She claimed corrupt groups in Moldova were organizing protests in the country together with pro-Russian forces.

"But no matter how difficult it is, we have to find a solution," she noted.

Earlier, Sandu said that protests in Moldova had been organized by groups directly funded by Russia and it was a revenge for the solidarity of the European Union and Ukraine.