In a pivotal election that underscored Moldova’s geopolitical alignment, President Maia Sandu’s pro-European Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) has emerged victorious, securing a new parliamentary majority. Sandu had cautioned voters about the grave threat of “massive Russian interference” shortly before polls opened, emphasizing the critical juncture for Moldova’s future, situated between Ukraine and Romania.
Following the provisional results, PAS leader Igor Grosu stated that Russia had “thrown everything it had” at the election, a sentiment echoed by international observers who noted the intensity of the campaign. Despite claims of victory from opposition leader Igor Dodon, whose Patriotic Electoral Bloc garnered approximately 24% of the vote, and calls for protests, the turnout of 52% was higher than in recent elections, signaling robust civic engagement. The election’s results have been warmly received by European leaders, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen congratulating Moldova on its clear choice for “Europe. Democracy. Freedom.” Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk lauded President Sandu for “saving democracy” and effectively challenging Russian influence in the region.
Despite the clear mandate for the pro-European path, the election was not without its complexities. Reports of bomb scares at polling stations in Italy, Romania, Spain, and the US, alongside similar incidents within Moldova, created an atmosphere of tension. Authorities attributed these disruptions to criminal groups allegedly backed by Moscow, leading to arrests and appeals for calm. Moldova’s precarious geopolitical position is further complicated by the presence of the pro-Russian breakaway region of Transnistria, where many residents expressed concerns about voting access, alleging deliberate hindrances to prevent their participation. However, election monitors were present at all polling stations, documenting the proceedings to ensure transparency.
The election results solidify Moldova’s commitment to closer ties with the European Union, a path President Sandu has championed, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in neighboring Ukraine. This outcome represents a significant step for Moldova as it navigates economic challenges and seeks to strengthen its democratic institutions amidst external pressures.