Moldova's EU Referendum: A Tightrope Decision Amid Controversy

A narrow majority in Moldova's referendum favors EU accession amid allegations of external interference. President Maia Sandu's pro-EU stance led to a tight vote against Alexandr Stoianoglo. The election highlights Moldova's ongoing struggle between EU aspirations and Russian influence.

A slim majority of Moldovans have voted 'yes' in a contentious referendum on European Union accession, preliminary results suggest. President Maia Sandu has claimed the voting was marred by 'unprecedented' external interference. The vote signifies a narrow endorsement of the pro-EU path pursued by Sandu for over four years.

During the simultaneous presidential election, Sandu secured 42% of the votes, while her chief opponent, ex-prosecutor-general Alexandr Stoianoglo, garnered a stronger-than-expected 26%. This sets the stage for a competitive run-off scheduled for November 3rd. Stoianoglo has proposed a foreign policy agenda involving balanced relations with the EU, US, Russia, and China.

Amid allegations of electoral interference, Moldovans faced a pivotal moment in their EU membership aspiration. The nation has been spotlighted since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Accusations of fraud have emerged, with claims of vote buying by foreign forces aiming to sway the result to oppose the EU accession.

(With inputs from agencies.)