Official statements or actions taken by Moldova's government

Moldova Votes in Tight Runoff Between Sandu and Stoianoglo Amid Russian Interference Fears

Nov 3, 2024, 05:02 AM

Moldova is holding a pivotal presidential runoff election on Sunday, as pro-European incumbent President Maia Sandu faces a tight contest against Russia-friendly challenger Alexandr Stoianoglo, the former Prosecutor General. Sandu secured 42% of the vote in the first round but faces a stiffer challenge in the runoff. The election comes amid heightened concerns over Russian interference, with officials warning of potential disruptive activities, including bomb threats at polling stations across multiple Western nations. Prime Minister Dorin Recean described anonymous threats received by citizens as an attempt to create panic and fear ahead of the vote, although Russia denies any meddling. A defeat for Sandu would be a crushing blow to Moldova's aspirations for a European future, potentially shifting the country's trajectory towards closer ties with Russia.