Georgia and Moldova: EU's Uneasy Expansion Challenge

Elections in Georgia and Moldova highlight the European Union's challenges in expanding to regions within Moscow's influence amid Russian interference allegations. The EU pushes for expansion post-Ukraine invasion recognizing the need for stability. Georgia's pro-Moscow results invite scrutiny while Moldova's pro-EU outlook presents hope amid political tensions.

The recent elections in Georgia and Moldova have underscored the European Union's complex efforts to expand its influence in regions considered by Moscow as part of its domain. The EU's renewed enlargement strategy comes in response to Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, emphasizing the urgency of reducing geopolitical gray zones on its periphery.

In Georgia, the ruling party perceived by many EU nations as Moscow-aligned won a contentious parliamentary election criticized for voting violations. Meanwhile, Moldovans barely supported constitutional EU integration in a recent referendum, with pro-Western President Maia Sandu facing a runoff against a pro-Russian opponent.

The EU confronts internal divisions on its approach, with some member states questioning Georgia's election validity while others offer congratulations. As the EU contemplates its next steps with both countries, the situation remains a test of its long-term strategy for European integration and stability.

(With inputs from agencies.)