Moldova's Presidential Runoff Tests EU Aspirations Amid Russian Interference Claims

Moldovans head to the polls in a crucial election runoff between pro-EU Maia Sandu and pro-Russian Alexandr Stoianoglo, with allegations of vote-buying and foreign meddling looming large.

Incumbent President Maia Sandu, a staunch pro-EU advocate, faces former Prosecutor-General Alexandr Stoianoglo, who is backed by the pro-Russian Socialist Party.
Allegations of Russian interference, including vote-buying schemes, have marred both the presidential race and a recent EU membership referendum.
Sandu accuses Stoianoglo of being a 'Trojan horse' for Kremlin interests, while Stoianoglo pledges a balanced foreign policy with both the EU and Russia.
The election outcome could influence Moldova's parliamentary elections next summer and its ongoing EU accession talks.
Moldovan authorities have alerted EU countries about potential disruptions targeting expatriate voters, reflecting fears of foreign meddling.