The Moldovan Parliament has taken a significant step by supporting the termination of the agreement establishing the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) during its first reading. This decision, reported by the Moldovan state news agency Moldpres, reflects the country’s shifting geopolitical stance.
The initiative to withdraw was spearheaded by Moldova’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which cited a failure of CIS principles regarding mutual respect for territorial integrity. The ministry pointed to ongoing conflicts, including Russia’s war against Ukraine, aggression towards Georgia, and the presence of Russian troops in the unrecognized territory of Transnistria as justifications for this move.
“This ‘suitcase without a handle,’ as one former president called it, has not brought us prosperity, has not protected our sovereignty, and has not ensured our security. On the contrary, it has kept us in a gray zone, making us vulnerable to energy, political, and military blackmail,” stated Mihai Popșoi, Moldova’s Foreign Minister, during his address to parliament.
In contrast, opposition members have criticized the decision, warning of potential economic repercussions, particularly concerning trade relations with CIS countries and the welfare of Moldovan citizens working in those nations. They argue that the withdrawal could complicate international cooperation.
Concerns were reiterated by opposition lawmakers regarding the possible adverse effects on the economy, especially for trade with CIS member states. They also expressed worries about the interests of Moldovan citizens employed in those countries being compromised.
Should the final vote confirm the withdrawal from the CIS, Moldova anticipates saving approximately $180,000 annually, which is currently allocated for membership contributions. The government has indicated a desire to maintain bilateral cooperation with CIS countries and to remain a party to certain agreements, particularly in social and economic spheres.
In recent years, Moldova has already annulled 71 out of 283 agreements within the CIS framework, with nearly 60 additional agreements currently under review. The final decision regarding the withdrawal will be addressed in a subsequent parliamentary reading.
The Commonwealth of Independent States is a regional organization formed after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, encompassing several post-Soviet states.
The process of Moldova’s exit from the CIS began in January 2026.
The Moldovan Parliament has initiated the process to withdraw from the Commonwealth of Independent States, citing security concerns linked to Russian aggression. This move has sparked debate over potential economic impacts and the future of international cooperation.