Moldovan Election Faces Disruption Amid Russian-Backed Interference

Authorities allege Russian-financed groups aim to destabilize the election and EU referendum through bribery and planned unrest.

Moldovan police have uncovered a plot by criminal groups with Russian support to disrupt the October 20 presidential election and EU membership referendum.
National police chief Viorel Cernauteanu reported that over 130,000 Moldovans were bribed by a Russia-managed network to vote against the EU plebiscite.
Fugitive businessman Ilan Shor, convicted for a $1 billion bank theft, is accused of leading efforts to sway votes with financial incentives.
Authorities have detained individuals linked to vandalism acts, believed to be precursors to more severe attempts to seize government buildings.
President Maia Sandu, seeking reelection, is leading the polls, while pro-Russian and EU membership opposition candidates trail behind.