Polls have opened in Moldova, where citizens are voting in parliamentary elections that could determine whether the country moves away from its pro-Ukrainian stance and its plans to join the European Union, towards Russia’s orbit.

Chișinău

Moldova's recent elections have been characterized by a stark divide between parties seeking closer ties with the European Union and those favoring alignment with Russia. The ruling Party of Action and Solidarity advocates for EU integration, while the opposition Patriotic Bloc looks to Russia for support. European observers have raised concerns about potential Russian interference, with Moldovan President Maya Sandu accusing Moscow of attempting to influence the vote through financial means and disinformation. The Kremlin has denied these allegations, and opposition leaders have accused Sandu of using fear tactics. Many Moldovans remain focused on stability and security, with some expressing nostalgia for the Soviet era, while others look to Europe for protection amid regional tensions. The outcome of the election is seen as pivotal for Moldova's future orientation.

Moldova holds elections hit by claims of Russian interference

The Moldovan capital, Chisinau, a country choosing between East and West. Flags of Moldova and the European Union fly side by side. But Moscow looms large over this election. Across the city, rival parties pitch for support. The ruling Party of Action and Solidarity wants closer EU ties. The opposition patriotic bloc looks to Russia. In the breakaway region of Transnistria, Russia already has a military presence in the form of a peacekeeping force. European observers warn of interference. There is ample evidence already now that a lot of malign interference from Russia is going to take place, is taking place, and we'll see how that works out on the results as well. President Maya Sandu accuses Moscow of trying to buy votes. The Kremlin is pouring hundreds of millions of euros to buy hundreds of thousands of votes. People are intoxicated daily with lies. Hundreds of individuals are paid to provoke disorder, violence and spread fear. Her rival socialist leader Igor Dodon says Sandu is the one spreading fear. Maya Sandu and her Soros government are trying to scare the citizens. Hundreds of daily searches, attacks on our colleagues from the districts once again show Maya Sandu fear of the election results. Moscow rejects the accusations. We see that the country's authorities continue to whip up anti-Russian hysteria. Sandu accused Russia of bribing voters. What evidence did she provide? None. At Chisinau's market, people say they want stability. We are afraid of war. No one wants that. We worry about Ukraine. That's why we look to Europe for at least some protection. Others remember Soviet times with nostalgia. What if we are with Russia? What's so bad about that? Russia educated me. I had a good life. I had enough money. For many voters, this election is about more than pensions or prizes. It's about Moldova's future direction, Europe or Russia. Asad Beg, Al Jazeera.

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Breakdown