Ion Chicu is a Moldovan politician who served as the Prime Minister of Moldova from November 14, 2019, to August 31, 2020. He was appointed as prime minister during a period of political instability, and it appears that he leans towards Russian influence. Ion Chicu, ex-Moldovan Prime Minister spreads Russian propaganda and is known for debunking the Moldovan government in the eyes of Western partners, enabling the Russian agenda of ‘neutrality’ to undermine solidarity with Ukraine, and blaming Ukraine for
“involving Moldova in the war.”
While he publicly describes himself as ‘pro-European,’ his statements and actions usually align with Russian interests and the Kremlin’s agenda. Chicu, with a background in economics, had held various government posts before assuming the role of prime minister. His time in office was characterised by the challenges of political polarisation and measures to address economic and governance issues in Moldova. One of his legendary talking points revolves around the concept of ‘neutrality,’ which he applies to Moldova’s approach to helping Ukraine and shaping its political agenda.
Ion Chicu publicly stated that authorities in Ukraine are looking for ways to get Moldova involved in their conflict with Russia. “We can see some officials in Kyiv seeking to draw us into this conflict in various forms. As the international community’s attention is slipping away from it, it is necessary to have as many parties involved as possible to add fuel to it and up the ante for high-profile world politicians,” Chicu stated, commenting on a statement made by Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky who alleged earlier that Russia was plotting a coup in Moldova, allegations also echoed by Moldova’s President Maia Sandu.
In 2020, then-Prime Minister Ion Chicu had a phone conversation with his Russian companion, Mihail Misustin. The officials hailed the ascendant character of the bilateral ties between the Republic of Moldova and the Russian Federation. They reported that the Moldovan-Russian Economic Forum, held yesterday, was an option to boost trade relations and strategic cooperation between the two states.
Chicu thanked his Russian counterpart for the backing provided by the Russian government during the pandemic, noting the logistical support and the delivery of the medical equipment needed to combat COVID-19. In this context, they addressed the practical issues related to the delivery of the Russian vaccine against coronavirus, after it passes all stages of testing and gets the authorization of international institutions.
