Chisinau (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Polls have opened in Moldova as citizens cast votes in parliamentary elections that could shift the country’s stance from being pro-Ukrainian and supportive of EU membership toward aligning more closely with Russia.
Polling stations open at 07:00 local time (04:00 GMT) and close at 21:00 local time (18:00 GMT). The election will determine 101 seats in Moldova’s parliament, after which the president appoints a prime minister, usually from the majority party or bloc, who will form the government.
Could Moldova’s elections shift the balance toward Russia or the EU?
Moldova, a candidate for EU membership, has historically been split between pursuing closer relations with Brussels or preserving its Soviet-era ties with Moscow. Around 0 political parties and independent candidates are running for the 101 parliamentary seats.
Ahead of Sunday’s vote, Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean cautioned about Russian interference, stating that Moscow is investing’ hundreds of millions” of euros in what he calls a hybrid war” aimed at taking control. He characterised this as’ the final battle for our country’s future.”
The EU stated that Moldova is experiencing “an unprecedented disinformation campaign” led by Russia, while Prime Minister Dorin Recean warned of a “siege on our country.” Moscow has dismissed Chisinau’s claims that it is conducting an online disinformation campaign, attempting to buy votes, or inciting unrest.
Which parties lead the pro-EU and pro-Russia camps?
The ruling pro-European Union, Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS), led by Igor Grosu. PAS aims to continue Moldova’s European integration path and currently holds the presidency. It is projected to get around 34% to 48% of the vote, but may need coalition partners to form a majority.
The Patriotic Electoral Bloc (BEP), a left-wing pro-Russian coalition partially led by former president Igor Dodon. The Bloc is in favour of having closer ties with Russia and remaining neutral status for Moldova. Polls indicate the BEP has the support of about 21% to 36% of voters.
