CHISINAU, Moldova (AP) Moldova's president says his country is committed to moving closer to the European Union and would not let itself be swayed by a senior Russian official's warning that it could complicate efforts to resolve a conflict over a breakaway region.
Russian deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin said Monday during a visit to Moldova that if the country signs an association agreement with the EU it could complicate efforts to resolve the conflict with the Trans-Dniester region and could lead to the loss of Russian gas in the winter.
President Nicolae Timofti said Wednesday Moldovans cannot "live under pressure or threats. Citizens have to choose their leaders, who should make sure the country does not depend on a single energy source."
Timofti said Moldova was committed to European integration. The former Soviet republic hopes to be invited to start EU accession in November.
