Challenger wants closer ties with Moscow

Moldovans vote this weekend in a presidential runoff race between a pro-Western incumbent and a Russia-friendly challenger.

Moldovan voters will choose between pro-EU incumbent Maia Sandu and former Prosecutor-General Alexandr Stoianoglo, who is backed by the pro-Russian Socialist Party. RFE/RL's Moldovan Service introduces the candidates, their campaigns, and the controversies that are complicating their careers.

The presidential role carries significant powers in areas such as foreign policy and national security.

Moldova’s pro-Western President Maia Sandu has won a second term in office in a pivotal presidential runoff against a Russia-friendly opponent, in a race that was overshadowed by claims of Russian interference, voter fraud, and intimidation in the European Union...

In Moldova's recent EU referendum, 95% of voters in the region of Gagauzia voted against joining the EU. Why do people there lean toward Russia despite support from the EU and the war in Ukraine? DW asked residents.

Maia Sandu prevails with a roughly 10 percentage point lead over her Russia-backed opponent Alexandr Stoianoglo

The presidential role carries significant powers in areas such as foreign policy and national security.

Moldovans vote in presidential runoff amid claims of fraud, interference, and intimidation, impacting democracy in EU candidate country.

Moldova’s pro-Western President Maia Sandu has won a second term in a pivotal presidential runoff against a Russia-friendly opponent, in a race that was overshadowed by claims of Russian interference, voter fraud, and intimidation in the European Union candidate country. With nearly 99% of votes counted in the second round of the…