Overview

• Polls closed with 51.9% turnout at 18:00 GMT, diaspora ballots continue until 21:00 local in each country and first results are expected after 22:00 GMT.
• The contest sets Maia Sandu’s PAS against pro-Russian blocs linked to Igor Dodon, with polls viewed as unreliable and a coalition outcome considered likely.
• Authorities and EU officials cite a sweeping disinformation drive tied to Russian interests, while Moscow rejects accusations of interference.
• Police intensified probes into illegal financing and detained 74 people this week, with officials also alleging protest training of Moldovans in Serbia.
• Fugitive oligarch Ilan Shor, sanctioned by the U.S. and EU, publicly offered $3,000 monthly for anti-government protest participation and is accused of orchestrating vote-buying via payment apps.