Moldova holds presidential runoff as pro-EU leader faces Russia-friendly challenger
Moldova is holding a runoff election on Sunday between pro-EU President Maia Sandu and Russia-friendly challenger Alexandr Stoianoglo. Sandu received 42% of the vote in the first round, while Stoianoglo garnered 26%. The election follows a referendum where a slim majority supported EU membership. Allegations of Kremlin-backed vote-buying have emerged, with Sandu's team mobilizing resources to counter these claims. Stoianoglo, who has not criticized Russia's actions in Ukraine, aims to improve relations with Moscow. The election occurs amid ongoing concerns about Russian influence in Moldova, particularly with troops stationed in the breakaway region of Transnistria.