Moldova's Pro-EU President Maia Sandu Begins Second Term Amid Energy Crisis

Sandu highlights Moldova's EU aspirations and resilience against Russian interference, while warning of a difficult winter ahead due to energy challenges.

• Maia Sandu was inaugurated for her second term as Moldova's president, emphasizing the country's pro-European direction and democratic resilience.
• Her re-election followed a contentious November vote marred by allegations of Russian interference, including disinformation and cyberattacks.
• Sandu warned of a challenging winter, citing energy blackouts and Moldova's reliance on Russian gas via Ukraine, with the transit contract set to expire soon.
• The European Union has praised Moldova's progress toward EU integration, with accession talks officially launched earlier this year.
• Pro-Russian sentiment persists in regions like Transnistria and Gagauzia, underscoring internal divisions as Moldova navigates its geopolitical pivot.

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Stern Le Figaro RFE/RL