The pro-European party of Moldovan President Maia Sandu has claimed victory and a new majority in parliament in elections critical for the future EU integration of Moldova.
Sandu raised concerns over massive Russian interference following the vote, stating that the stakes for Moldova, bordered by Ukraine and Romania, were high.
Igor Grosu, leader of Sandu's Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS), reported around 50% of the votes, accusing Russia of exerting significant influence over the elections.
Meanwhile, opposition leader Igor Dodon, from the pro-Russian Patriotic Electoral Bloc, declared victory prematurely and has called for protests in Chisinau.
Despite this, the PAS's win appears convincing: with nearly all votes counted, they have garnered about 50.17%, far ahead of Dodon's bloc, which stands at approximately 24.18%.
Voter turnout was noted at 52%, surpassing previous years, and the results were welcomed by European leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Praise for Sandu came from various European figures, including Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who both highlighted the importance of Moldova's choice for democracy over Russian influence.
However, the Kremlin reacted cautiously, claiming that many Moldovans abroad were barred from voting due to insufficient polling stations.
The elections were marred by tension, with bomb scares reported at multiple voting locations abroad and allegations of pre-election misdeeds, including disinformation campaigns backed by Russian interests to manipulate the outcome.
Moldovans face pressing challenges, including economic instability and government corruption, amid pressure from Russia and high inflation as a result of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Sandu warned voters that their democracy was fragile: Don't play with your vote or you'll lose everything! This mantra resonates with many voters, who look towards a European future over a pro-Russian past.
