Moldova's Maia Sandu leads in presidential run-off against Putin-backed candidate
Moldova's presidential run-off election is showing a strong lead for incumbent President Maia Sandu, who has 54.35% of the votes against Alexandr Stoianoglo's 45.65%. Sandu previously fired Stoianoglo as prosecutor general in 2023. Voter turnout has been high, particularly among the diaspora. Accusations of Russian interference have emerged, with Sandu claiming it could distort the election outcome. The Kremlin has denied these allegations. This election follows a recent referendum supporting a constitutional change for EU membership. Moldova's geopolitical significance has increased amid concerns about Russian influence in the region, especially after Georgia's pro-Russian party won.