Despite significant pressure and interference from Russia, the people of Moldova have chosen democracy, supported reforms, and confirmed their aspiration for a European future, reports Baltimore Chronicle with reference to TCH. In the parliamentary elections, pro-Russian forces failed to secure a decisive advantage, while the pro-Western party of President Maia Sandu won a parliamentary majority.
The elections took place amid intense information campaigns, preparations for potential unrest, and attempts to bribe voters. Moscow actively sought to hinder Chisinau’s pro-European course, employing a variety of influence methods. One such approach involved pressure through a church linked to Russia, which encouraged parishioners to vote for pro-Russian political forces.
According to Moldovan authorities and Reuters, several politicians from Putin’s party “United Russia” accompanied Moldovan priests on trips to Russia. Journalists documented that nearly 90 new Telegram channels connected to Moldovan Orthodox parishes were created over the past year. These channels published similar content almost daily, urging followers to resist pro-Western government initiatives, reaching thousands of users.
However, these tactics did not significantly affect the outcome. Voter turnout in pro-Russian regions remained relatively low. Authorities relocated five polling stations originally assigned for citizens from Transnistria to minimize security risks, including fake bomb threats and other provocations.
As a result, President Maia Sandu’s pro-Western party, “Action and Solidarity,” received over 50% of the votes, which is expected to secure 54 seats in the 101-member parliament. The pro-Russian “Patriotic Bloc,” led by a former president, garnered more than 24% of votes, earning 27 seats. The pro-European party “Alternative” is expected to gain 8 mandates, while two other political forces may receive a small number of votes.
Western politicians have already reacted to the election results, congratulating Moldova on its democratic victory and pledging full support for its European integration path.
Earlier we wrote that Moldova’s pro-russian opposition plans post-election rally amid paid protest claims.
