Balázs Jarábik recently visited Moldova ahead of its crucial parliamentary elections. The country is experiencing growing political polarization: the government, led by the PAS party, retains strong EU backing, while the newly formed Patriotic Bloc is gaining ground by tapping into social discontent—and Russian money. The political center is hollowing out, echoing last year’s presidential race, and with 40% of voters still undecided, the outcome remains uncertain. His backgrounder, explaining why Moldova matters as Ukraine’s soft underbelly and what these dynamics mean for the country’s domestic stability and EU trajectory, was published by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. 

Essential Ukraine is a bi-monthly publication of Minority Report hosted by R.Politik, offering in-depth analysis of Ukraine's internal political landscape, institutions, and societal transformations. Authored by Balázs Jarábik, a seasoned observer of Ukrainian politics, the publication provides grounded insights tailored for policymakers, diplomats, and analysts.Unlike other services, Essential Ukraine prioritizes depth and realism over frequency, focusing on the structural and societal changes influenced by the ongoing conflict. 

In the latest 6th edition, Jarabik delves into the complexities of Ukraine's defense strategy amidst escalating pressures.The report highlights the challenges posed by Russia's evolving tactics and the strain on Ukraine's military resources. The analysis underscores the critical need for strategic recalibration and sustained international support to navigate the shifting dynamics of the conflict.