In a recent poll conducted by Express.co.uk, readers were asked to voice their predictions on which country Vladimir Putin might target for invasion next, with Moldova emerging as the favoured choice among respondents.
Out of the 10 countries provided as options, Moldova secured a commanding lead with 42 percent of the votes, indicating a significant concern among Express readers regarding potential Russian aggression in the region.
Poland followed as the second most likely target according to the poll, garnering 15 percent of the votes, while Georgia and Estonia each received 6 percent, and Latvia and Lithuania trailed at 4 percent.
The poll results come amid escalating tensions and geopolitical analysis pointing to various potential hotspots where Russia could exert its influence.
Among these scenarios, Moldova emerges as a focal point due to its strategic location, ties to the West, and the presence of Russian troops in Transnistria, a breakaway region.
The Baltics, Poland, Georgia, Kazakhstan, and the Caspian region are also identified as areas of concern where Russian expansionist ambitions could manifest.
Concerns over the Baltics stem from the possibility of exploiting ethnic Russian enclaves, while Poland faces unsubstantiated accusations and historical tensions.
Georgia’s strategic Black Sea coastline and Kazakhstan’s Slavic minorities present further potential targets for Russian aggression.
Moreover, the allure of capturing energy assets in the Caspian region adds a financial incentive for Moscow, despite expectations of Western opposition and sanctions.
Express readers’ sentiments reflect a growing awareness of the geopolitical risks posed by escalating tensions in Eastern Europe and Central Asia.
The poll underscores the importance of diplomatic efforts and collective security measures in deterring further aggression from Russia and preserving peace in Europe.
