The former prime minister asserts that, with foreign exchange reserves of nearly 6 billion euros, projected inflation of 5–7 percent, and a stable banking system, the country is not facing a sudden crisis that would justify “drastic intervention.”
“Yes, we have a small, vulnerable economy that is dependent on external shocks. Yes, we need investment, economic growth, energy security, and stronger institutions. But where do you see a catastrophic crisis that would justify intervention with a chainsaw? And most importantly—what exactly do you want to cut off?” Sturza asked on social media.
Analyzing the figures, Sturza notes that the entire central government administration accounts for only 2–3% of government spending. Even a radical 20% cut in these costs would yield negligible savings—at most about 1.5 percentage points of the budget. At the same time, economic growth of just 1–2% per year would generate significantly more revenue than any cuts. In his view, Moldova’s problem lies not in the volume of spending, but in the efficiency of the government apparatus.
Tofan “is beginning to regret” the chosen archetype
The debate continued, and Vasile Tofan suggested that Ion Sturza “set aside the labels” and move on to a concrete analysis of the 12 economic solutions proposed for the recovery of the Republic of Moldova. In his argument, Tofan explained that his intention was not to copy the “apocalyptic” Argentine model, but to emphasize the need for a reformist leader capable of making unpopular decisions.
“Instead of reducing my post to a ‘chainsaw,’ I would appreciate comments on the substance of the 12 points. Especially from you—a businessman and former prime minister who knows well how the state and the economy work. And if your plan boils down to ‘How do we grow? By modernizing the state and ourselves”—I must admit, I don’t think the situation can be fixed with slogans,” Tofan stated, while acknowledging that he is beginning to “regret” choosing Milei as an archetype.
As a reminder, the entire controversy began after a statement by Vasile Tofan—an entrepreneur, senior partner, and member of the Horizon Capital investment committee—that the future government needs a reformer-surgeon capable of implementing tough and unpopular economic measures. In his analysis of the Republic of Moldova’s future, Tofan stated that the executive branch can no longer postpone structural decisions. He compared the current state of the country to a severe medical crisis that requires not superficial treatment, but radical, intensive care.
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