Moldova prepares for presidential election amid concerns of Russian interference
Moldova is set to hold a crucial presidential election on Sunday, with incumbent Maia Sandu facing Alexandr Stoianoglo. Sandu, who supports closer ties with the European Union, received 42% of the first-round vote, while Stoianoglo garnered over 26%. Both rounds of voting have been affected by allegations of Russian interference, including a vote-buying scheme linked to Russian oligarch Ilan Shor. Sandu has described this as a significant threat to Moldova's democracy, claiming it targeted around 300,000 voters. Stoianoglo's campaign mixes pro-Russian sentiments with EU aspirations, complicating his platform. Moldovan officials are concerned about potential meddling in the second round, which could impact the country's future direction amid ongoing regional tensions.