Moldova’s President Maia Sandu appeared poised for victory in a second-round run-off, according to preliminary results from Sunday, positioning the pro-European Union leader for a second term. During her campaign, Sandu committed to steering the country towards EU membership. Sandu framed the election as a pivotal decision for Moldova, a nation with a population of 2.5 million, stating it was a choice between a future within the EU and a possible return to Russian influence. By Sunday evening, with 97% of polling stations reporting, Sandu was leading against Alexandr Stoianoglo, a former prosecutor-general and political newcomer, with 53.89% of the vote.
Sandu expressed satisfaction with the preliminary results, declaring that Moldovans had “saved” their country amidst accusations of Russian attempts to interfere with the electoral process. “Freedom, truth, and justice have prevailed,” she remarked, emphasizing the unity of the people in overcoming challenges.
Addressing supporters and critics in both Romanian and Russian, widely spoken in Moldova, Sandu pledged to foster peace and democracy, aiming to advance Moldova for the benefit of all citizens. Sandu’s narrow victory follows an inconclusive first-round result two weeks prior, necessitating a run-off.
A concurrent referendum on EU membership revealed a divided nation, with the pro-EU side garnering a slim 50.35% majority. This election marks Sandu as the first president in Moldova to be elected by the public for a second term. She has promised to pursue necessary reforms for EU accession, targeting membership by 2030. Moldova first applied for EU membership in 2022, shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine. The EU has since endorsed Moldova’s membership bid and initiated accession talks last year. Recently, the EU approved a €1.8 billion multiyear financial package to support Moldova’s path to membership.
The move has prompted discontent from Moscow, with allegations and warnings from Moldovan authorities of Russian interference aiming to influence the election. Moldova’s police cited an “unprecedented” attack on their electoral process, accusing Russia of channeling significant funds to sway the results.
Despite denials from Moscow regarding these allegations, there was substantial concern leading up to the second round of voting. While Alexandr Stoianoglo received backing from the socialist party with Russian connections, he maintains his political independence. Stoianoglo has condemned Russia’s actions in Ukraine and voiced support for European integration, while advocating for a neutral foreign policy stance for Moldova.
Stoianoglo’s support also came from voters dissatisfied with Sandu’s handling of economic challenges, including an energy crisis and the influx of refugees from Ukraine. Late Sunday, Stoianoglo called for peace and unity, emphasizing the need to move beyond division and hatred following the election outcome.
