The Trump syndrome and the Maia Sandu antidote: lessons for Europe’s small states and middle powers from Moldova’s international leadership

As the global order is reshaped by strongman tendencies in both East and West, smaller states must learn to adapt to protect both their position and values. One clear example of this comes from Moldova, where local leadership is now exporting its own success story regarding democratization.

March 19, 2026 - Răzvan Foncea