Amid concerns about Russian meddling, Moldovans cast their ballots in a contentious presidential election runoff on Sunday that could be crucial to the nation’s future in Europe.
Two weeks after a narrow “yes” victory in a referendum on entering the European Union, the nation that borders war-torn Ukraine held its vote.
In the first round of the presidential election, incumbent Maia Sandu, who supports the EU, received 42.5% of the vote. Supported by the pro-Russian Socialists, Alexandr Stoianoglo received 26%. Sandu dismissed him as prosecutor general last year.
Other lost candidates have now backed Stoianoglo, and observers anticipate a close struggle like to Georgia’s vote last weekend, in which the ruling party narrowly prevailed in a contested parliamentary election.
Russia has been charged in both former Soviet republics with trying to influence voters. It has denied the claims in every instance.
