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Pro-Russian Stoianoglo Leads Moldova Election Amid Allegations of Massive Russian Interference

Nov 3, 2024, 12:15 PM

On November 3, 2024, Moldova held a pivotal presidential runoff election between incumbent pro-European Union President Maia Sandu and pro-Russian challenger Alexandr Stoianoglo, a former Prosecutor General described by some as a "Russian Trojan horse." The election has been overshadowed by allegations of widespread Russian interference, including reports of organized voter transport from Transnistria and Russia, and potential disruptive activities such as fake bomb threats targeting polling stations abroad. Moldovan authorities reported "massive interference" by Russia and heightened security measures to prevent election fraud and voter intimidation. The Central Electoral Commission noted that 2,400 observers were monitoring the elections, with 38 polling stations abroad opening at 7:00 local time. Voter turnout was significant, reaching 51.3% by 18:30 EET. Early results indicated Stoianoglo leading with approximately 51% of the votes, while Sandu trailed with about 49%, with over 80% of the votes counted. However, the margin was narrowing as votes from the Moldovan diaspora—comprising over 300,000 voters who largely support Sandu—were still being counted. Sandu had secured 42% in the first round on October 20, while Stoianoglo received 26%. The outcome of the election is seen as critical for Moldova's future foreign policy direction, potentially influencing its aspirations for closer ties with the European Union or a return to stronger relations with Moscow. "Right now, the destiny of our country is being decided," a Moldovan official remarked, underscoring the high stakes of the election.