Moldova begins formal withdrawal from Russia-led Commonwealth of Independent States

Moldova's parliament approved the denunciation of the CIS founding agreement and governing bodies in March 2026, with formal withdrawal starting by early April 2026. Moldova had already ceased participation in CIS activities several years prior but remained a legal member. The move underlines Moldova's determination to distance itself from Russian influence, intensified by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and aligns with its stated goal to join the European Union. Foreign Minister Mihai Popșoi described the decision as breaking an "invisible chain" linking Moldova to its Soviet past. The withdrawal will reduce Moldova’s annual financial contributions to the CIS by about €600,000 but will not end bilateral or multilateral cooperation in economic and social agreements with former CIS states. Moldova's recent political leadership under pro-EU President Maia Sandu and her party’s electoral success supports this westward orientation. Historically, Moldova has experienced shifting allegiances, having been part of the Russian Empire, Greater Romania, and the Soviet Union. This step confirms Moldova's increasing pivot away from Moscow’s sphere of influence.