CHISINAU — The people of Moldova went to the polls on Sunday in a high-stakes election that could reshape the country’s future. At the heart of the vote is a crucial question: Should Moldova continue its path toward joining the European Union—or turn back toward Russia?
The outcome will decide the balance of power in the country’s 101-seat parliament. If no party secures a majority, Moldova—already one of Europe’s poorest nations—may face weeks of political bargaining and uncertainty. All this while war rages next door in Ukraine and suspicions of Russian meddling loom over the process.
Russian Influence in the Spotlight
President Maia Sandu has cast the election as a battle for Moldova’s very survival. She dreams of EU membership by 2030, but warns of “immediate and dangerous” consequences if Moscow’s influence grows stronger.
Authorities accuse Russia of funding opposition parties, spreading disinformation, and even trying to stir unrest through religion and politics. Just days before the vote, election officials barred two parties from the pro-Russian Patriotic Bloc after uncovering evidence of illegal financing.
Still, former president Igor Dodon, a key figure in the bloc, urged his supporters to prepare for protests, accusing the government of planning to annul the results—without presenting proof.
Meanwhile, Moldova’s cyber authorities confirmed that election systems had been attacked in the days leading up to the vote.
Divided Voices Across the Country
For President Sandu’s ruling Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS), the election is a fight to hold onto its majority. Many Moldovans abroad returned home to cast their votes, determined to support her pro-European vision.
“(Sandu) is doing what she can with what she has,” said Mariana Rousset, 45, who flew from France just to vote.
But others remain unconvinced. In the capital, fruit seller Viorica Burlacu, 46, said the war in Ukraine made her believe Moldova needed Europe’s protection. “We’re afraid of war; no one wants that. So we’re reaching out to Europe for at least some protection,” she explained.
In contrast, 82-year-old Maria Scotari from Balti remembered life under Soviet rule with fondness. “What was so bad about it? I was a student, everything was fine, everything was great,” she recalled.
A Nation at a Crossroads
For decades, Moldova has swung between pro-European and pro-Russian leadership. This election is no different—but the stakes feel higher than ever.
Whether the country leans west toward Brussels or east toward Moscow, one thing is certain: Moldovans are voting not just for a government, but for the future they want their children to inherit.
