Struggle in the Post-Soviet Space! Moldova Parliamentary Elections: Pro-Europe or Pro-Russia, Tension is High
The Eastern European country of Moldova began parliamentary elections on Sunday. The results of the vote will determine whether the country moves toward Europe or Russia, and will affect the Ukraine conflict. Europe is holding its breath.
This landlocked Eastern European country, which borders Ukraine, is facing a choice between continuing to advance the process of joining the EU or moving closer to Russia. The Moldovan government and the EU accuse Moscow of "deep interference."
According to AFP, this highly tense and uncertain election is significant, with both camps accusing each other of manipulating the election and trying to intimidate voters.
Most polls before the election predicted that the pro-European party, Action and Solidarity (PAS), which has been in power since 2021, would win. However, analysts believe the election result is still uncertain.
Wasily, 51, at a polling station in the capital "Chișinău" told AFP: "I want higher wages and pensions... This locksmith and welder said he hopes everything will continue as it was during the Soviet era."
Another voter, 68-year-old Paulina (Bogdan), said she hopes Moldova "catches up with European countries, because Europe has everything we need." This retiree, who lived in Italy for many years, returned to her homeland and told AFP: "The situation is critical."
According to the EU, the election on Sunday is shadowed by concerns including vote buying and unrest, as well as an "unprecedented information campaign" launched by Russia.
Moscow denied these accusations, while the Moldovan opposition accused the pro-European Action and Solidarity Party (PAS) of planning fraud.
The pro-European President Maia Sandu was re-elected in the presidential election on November 3, 2024. Her Action and Solidarity Party leads in the polls, but its support has declined since its big win in 2021. She warned after voting that Russia is "massively interfering" and that Moldova is "in danger."
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1844532965776395/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.