1991 – Moldova declares independence. It joins the Commonwealth of Independent States, the successor to the Soviet Union.
Up to 700 people are killed in fighting between Moldovan and Transnistrian forces following the breakaway region’s unilateral declaration of independence.
1992 – Ceasefire signed and enforced by Russian troops already stationed in the breakaway region.
1994 – Moldova becomes a parliamentary republic.
2001-09 – Communist party returns to power in Moldova.
2006 – Transnistria referendum overwhelmingly backs independence from Moldova and a plan eventually to become part of Russia.
2009 – Three killed amid violent protests in Chisinau, following April elections which protesters claim the governing Communists rigged. In the subsequent July elections the Communists lose power.
2014 – Moldova signs association agreement with the European Union, prompting Russia to impose import restrictions on the country’s agricultural produce.
2016 – Pro-Russian candidate Igor Dodon wins first direct presidential election in 16 years.
2020 – Pro-European Maia Sandu is elected Moldova’s first women president.
2021- In parliamentary elections, Sandu’s pro-European PAS party wins a majority, defeating a coalition of pro-Russian parties.
2023-24 – US and EU impose sanctions against several pro-Russian politicians for collusion with Russia amid attempts to destabilise Moldova.
2024 – Voters narrowly back proposed changes to the constitution and commitment to joining the EU – by 50.4% to 49.5%.