Moldova Stands Firm: Sandu Wins Again

This weekend, Moldova turned a new page. The country's pro-Western incumbent, Maia Sandu, won the presidential runoff by a clear margin. With over 99% of votes counted, Sandu snagged 55. 4%, while her Russia-backed opponent, Alexandr Stoianoglo, got 44. 6%. This victory comes after neither candidate secured a majority in the first round last month. Sandu thanked her supporters, including over 300, 000 Moldovans living abroad who voted and boosted her chances. "Today, Moldova is victorious, " she shared on social media, highlighting the country's unity, democracy, and commitment to a better future. Moldova, nestled between Ukraine and Romania, has long grappled with its future. Should it stay within Russia's orbit or look towards Europe? This election follows a referendum last month where citizens narrowly backed EU membership in the constitution. Russia has been accused of meddling in Moldova's elections, just like it did in Georgia's parliamentary elections last month. But Russia denies these claims and accuses the West of interference too. European leaders congratulated Sandu, seeing her win as a step away from Russian influence. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz praised her for steering Moldova towards Europe. French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed her re-election, noting that democracy triumphed despite interference. Ursula von der Leyen, EU Commission President, also commended Sandu, looking forward to working together for Moldova's European future.