Pro-Western incumbent Maia Sandu has secured a second term as Moldova’s president, according to preliminary election results, bolstering the country’s EU aspirations and signaling a rejection of Russian influence.

In the runoff, Sandu received 54.35% of the vote against Kremlin-aligned candidate Alexandr Stoianoglo.

With significant support from the Moldovan diaspora, her victory is seen as a key endorsement of her pro-EU agenda.

Sandu vowed to represent all citizens in her victory speech, emphasizing the importance of democracy.

The election, marred by allegations of Russian interference and vote-buying, has drawn the attention of the EU, which pledged substantial support for Moldova’s accession efforts, The Guardian has reported.

Meanwhile, the Kremlin denied involvement in the electoral process.

Written by B.C. Begley