Why Moldova is second on Putin’s list: what The New York Times learned the Kremlin’s plan to ‘collapse’ NATO and the EU from within

Live updates

1. 29d ago

   Russia plans to 'collapse' NATO and EU from within, Moldova as target

   Russia is planning to test NATO's unity with a limited incursion, potentially into Moldova. US intelligence suggests Putin may launch an attack to gauge the alliance's response. Moldova is seen as a vulnerable point for Russia to exert influence and destabilize the region.

   Why it matters

   The plan is part of a broader strategy to weaken NATO and the EU from within. Russia's actions in Ukraine have raised concerns about its intentions in neighboring countries. Moldova's fragile government and proximity to Ukraine make it a prime target. The Kremlin's goals are to create divisions within the alliance and undermine its effectiveness.

   What is confirmed

   • Putin ordered the Kremlin to 'break NATO and EU apart from within' in 2026.
   • Russia views Moldova as a springboard for new aggression.
   • The Kremlin plans to 'collapse' NATO and the EU from within.

   Still unconfirmed

   • Putin could test NATO's resolve with a limited incursion into Moldova.

   What to watch next

   • Russia's next move in Moldova
   • NATO's response to potential Russian aggression
   • Outcome of Putin's strategy to weaken the EU and NATO
   Sources used for this update (15)

   1. Institute for the Study of War — Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, August 6, 2026
   2. wsj.com — Exclusive | U.S. Intel Finds Putin Could Test NATO’s Resolve With Limited Incursion
   3. CNN — US intel assesses Putin could launch attack aimed at testing NATO unity
   4. The New York Times — Inside Russia’s Giant Push to Upend a Tiny Country
   5. The New Voice of Ukraine — Putin ordered Russia to ‘break NATO and EU apart from within’ in 2026
   6. ua.news — The Kremlin Views Moldova as a Springboard for New Aggression — NYT
   7. UNITED24 Media — Kremlin Files Reveal Russia’s Strategy to Target Moldova After Ukraine
   8. TVP World — Mission Moldova: Inside Putin’s plan to destroy the West ‘from within’
   9. Meduza — Why Moldova is second on Putin’s list: what The New York Times learned the Kremlin’s plan to ‘collapse’ NATO and the EU from within
   10. Kyiv Post — Putin Ordered Kremlin to ‘Destroy NATO and EU From Within’ – NYT
   11. WSJ — Top German General Says Russia Is Probing NATO Defenses With Hybrid Attacks
   12. Reuters — Poland and Baltics shield infrastructure, fearing a Russian false-flag strike
   confidence 75%