Moldova’s Pro-European Party Secures Decisive Victory, Defying Russian Influence

In a significant political upset, Moldova’s ruling pro-European Action and Solidarity (PAS) party has retained its absolute majority in Sunday’s parliamentary election, delivering a clear message against Russian influence. Contrary to pre-election polls, PAS garnered over 50% of the vote, securing approximately 55 out of 101 parliamentary seats.

This outcome represents a substantial defeat for the Kremlin, which had heavily invested in pro-Russian campaigns. The pro-Russian Patriotic Electoral Bloc, led by former President Igor Dodon, only secured 24% of the vote, considerably less than anticipated. Other parties crossing the parliamentary threshold included the nominally neutral (but de facto pro-Russian) Alternative alliance and Renato Usatii’s Our Party, alongside the right-wing populist Democracy at Home Party (PPDA), which supports reunification with Romania.

PAS leader and parliamentary speaker Igor Grosu hailed the result, stating, “Moldova, I salute you. You have won battle upon battle against enemies of this country, who seemed invincible. Russia threw everything dirty it had into the fight. Tons of money, lies, illegalities.” He emphasized that the victory signifies that “we decide what happens in this country, not Russia.”

The election campaign was marred by allegations of illegal financing and foreign interference. Police seized large sums of cash presumed to be for vote-buying, and authorities arrested individuals involved in training for unrest. Several pro-Russian parties were also barred from participating due to illegal campaign financing.

President Maia Sandu, re-elected last November, underscored the stakes, stating in a video, “Russia is not our friend. It attacked a neighboring country without any reason, it turned off the gas taps for us and it wants to buy our votes and our country.” The clear electoral outcome has largely quelled fears of widespread protests or unrest, despite calls for demonstrations by Igor Dodon.

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