Ukrainian Ambassador: Moldova’s Neutrality Does Not Prevent It From Producing Drones

In an interview with the Diplomatic Dimension programme, Paun Rohovei spoke about Ukraine’s wartime experience and the role of unmanned technologies in strengthening regional security. Asked what he would say to those who oppose the development of such capabilities in Moldova on the grounds that the country has a neutral status, the ambassador said that neutrality does not rule out the right of a state to develop its own defence capabilities, according to Radio Moldova. “Every state, regardless of whether it has neutral status, has the right to independently determine the forms and methods of its defence. Today, we see that international law is being violated, primarily by the Russian Federation. Regardless of its status, every state has both the moral right and the need to develop its own defence system,” said Paun Rogovei. Rohovei believes that the development of such capabilities in Moldova should be viewed in the context of national and regional security. In June, Moldovan President Maia Sandu said that the country could begin producing drones, anti-drone systems and jamming equipment of its own. The head of state said that the authorities are working to enhance the country’s defence capabilities in response to aerial threats. Plans are also underway to amend legislation to allow the private sector and foreign investors to get involved in this industry. Sandu noted that Moldova could draw on Ukraine’s experience in this area.