The path of European integration is the path undertaken by the Republic of Moldova. The Moldovans, regardless of their political or geopolitical preferences, want peace, freedom and democracy, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration (MFAEI) of Moldova said in reaction to Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov’s assertion that Moldova follows “the path of Ukraine”, IPN reports.

“We categorically deny the statements made by the head of the Russian foreign minister, which are untruthful and form part of the already known threatening rhetoric of the Russian diplomatic service. We want to remind the Russian side that the path of accession to the European Union is the path followed by the Republic of Moldova. This is the country project supported by the citizens,” said the spokesman for the MFAEI Daniel Vodă.

He noted that Moldova as a state and the Moldovans, regardless of their political or geopolitical preferences, want peace, freedom and democracy. “We will appreciate it if all the countries, including the Russian Federation, respect the decision of our people. The Republic of Moldova clearly chose its future and this future is part of the free world,” stated the spokesman.

In an interview for a Russian TV channel, Sergei Lavrov said the West is eyeing Moldova for the role of “next Ukraine”, while President Maia Sandu is eager herself to join NATO and is ready to unite with Romania.