Maia Sandu once again became the focal point of Moldovan politics after her decisive victory in the 2025 parliamentary elections. This result not only consolidated her domestic position but also reignited discussions about the country’s foreign policy direction, particularly regarding relations with Ukraine. Moldova has long been torn between European integration and Russian influence, and Sandu has emerged as a symbol of reform, transparency, and alignment with the West. Her campaign strategy managed to unite pro-European forces and respond to public demand for democratic governance. As a result, Sandu’s win is being closely observed not only in Chisinau but also among Moldova’s international partners, especially in Kyiv, as reported by the Baltimore Chronicle.
Who Is Maia Sandu and How Did She Rise to Power
Maia Sandu is an economist and politician who first gained significant recognition during the 2016 presidential elections, when she reached the runoff. In 2020, she became Moldova’s first female president. Known for her anti-corruption agenda, Sandu built a reputation as a reformist politician appealing to young voters and the urban population.
Her academic and professional background — studies at Harvard University and work at the World Bank — strengthened her credibility in international negotiations. However, her rise was not without resistance: she faced fierce opposition from pro-Russian parties, oligarchic networks, and entrenched bureaucracy. Despite these obstacles, Sandu leveraged her reformist image to build a movement capable of mobilizing voters even in politically polarized conditions.
Moldova’s 2025 Parliamentary Elections: Key Outcomes
The 2025 elections demonstrated shifting political moods in Moldova. Below is a breakdown of how the new parliament was formed and what it means for the future.
Distribution of seats in Moldova’s 2025 parliament
| Political Force | Vote Share | Seats |
|---|---|---|
| Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS, Maia Sandu) | 44% | 62 |
| Socialist Party | 24% | 34 |
| Communist Bloc | 12% | 17 |
| Other parties | 20% | 18 |
The landslide win for Sandu’s PAS confirmed public support for reforms and a European-oriented future. The result provides her administration with greater freedom to implement economic and social initiatives. At the same time, the dominance of one political force raises concerns about possible concentration of power, a topic already sparking debate in Chisinau.
Maia Sandu and Ukraine: A Strategic Partnership
Moldova’s relationship with Ukraine is a cornerstone of its foreign policy, particularly in the context of regional security. Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Sandu has consistently voiced support for Kyiv, joining international sanctions against Russian businesses and advocating for stronger cooperation.
Her approach to Ukraine can be summarized in several key areas:
- firm support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity;
- energy cooperation, including cross-border electricity supply;
- development of transport corridors and infrastructure;
- joint efforts to counter Russian influence in the Black Sea region.
This strategic alignment strengthens both Moldova’s and Ukraine’s positions in discussions with the European Union and NATO. Moreover, bilateral projects in border management and infrastructure modernization highlight the shared vision of security and European integration.
What Sandu’s Victory Means for Moldovan Society
For Moldovans, Sandu’s parliamentary success represents both hope and expectation. Citizens are eager for reforms that will reshape state institutions, combat corruption, and improve living standards. Public debates highlight several priorities for her government.
The main expectations among Moldovans include:
- Faster progress toward European Union integration.
- Reduced reliance on Russian energy imports.
- Stronger anti-corruption measures.
- Improved cooperation with Ukraine and Romania.
- Access to European investment for small and medium businesses.
The ability of Sandu’s government to deliver on these promises will be decisive in shaping her long-term political legitimacy.
Challenges Ahead and the International Context
Despite her electoral triumph, Sandu faces significant hurdles. Domestically, opposition forces are likely to challenge her party’s dominance by raising concerns about democratic checks and balances. Economically, Moldova remains vulnerable to external shocks and hybrid threats from Russia. Meanwhile, the unresolved issue of Transnistria remains a looming challenge that cannot be postponed indefinitely.
On the international stage, Sandu has the opportunity to reinforce Moldova’s image as a reliable pro-European partner. Together with Ukraine, she can help redefine the regional balance of power by promoting projects in energy, trade, and security. For Moldova, the 2025 elections may well mark the beginning of a new political era.
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