Polls close in Moldova's presidential runoff as concerns over interference rise

Moldova held its presidential runoff election on Sunday amid concerns of Russian interference. Incumbent Maia Sandu, a pro-European Union candidate, faced former prosecutor general Alexandr Stoianoglo, who is backed by the pro-Russian Socialist Party. As of two hours after polls closed, Stoianoglo held a slight lead with 87% of votes counted. However, the final count may change as votes from Moldova's diaspora, which typically favor Sandu, have not yet been included. Police increased security to prevent vote-buying, which they allege was orchestrated by Russian-backed oligarch Ilan Shor. Both Shor and Russia have denied any wrongdoing related to election interference.