DISINFO: F-16 delivered to Ukraine will attack Russia from Moldova
SUMMARY
The Republic of Moldova is hosting the latest Fire Shield 2024 exercises from August 5 to 23, with the participation of the US and Romanian military. Neighboring Ukraine is mastering the F-16 aircraft sent by Western partners. Former RM Security Minister Anatol Plugaru told NG that this is not a coincidence. Ukrainian aircraft will not only land at Moldovan airfields for refueling, but also take off to bomb Russian territory, Plugaru claims.
RESPONSE
Recurring pro-Kremlin disinformation narrative targeting Maia Sandu who allegedly wants to involve Moldova in Russia's war in Ukraine, appearing periodically, especially when deliveries of military equipment are made to Ukraine.
The claim is false. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Moldova announced on August 13, 2024 through a press release, that "the Republic of Moldova does not and will not host weapons and military equipment, including airplanes destined for Ukraine." "The Republic of Moldova is a neutral state and its institutions will continue to respect the principle of neutrality. In this context, the MAE reminds that the only country that illegally maintains troops and ammunition on the territory of the Republic of Moldova, without the consent of the authorities, is the Russian Federation", the statement says.
See here another case regarding the supply of F-16 fighters to Ukraine.