Moldova Election: Choosing Between Europe and Russia
CHISINAU, MOLDOVA - SEPTEMBER 26, 2025
In the midst of a heated presidential election campaign, Moldovans are being asked to choose between their country's integration with Europe and its historical ties with Russia. The contest pits incumbent President Maia Sandu, a pro-European leader, against former President Igor Dodon, who has vowed to restore close relations with Moscow.
According to recent polls, Sandu's Action and Solidarity Party (PAS) is leading in the election, but Dodon's Patriotic Electoral Bloc alliance remains a strong contender. The campaign has been marked by intense rhetoric from both sides, with each accusing the other of being beholden to foreign interests.
Dodon, who served as president from 2016 to 2020, has been critical of Sandu's government, claiming that it has sold out to the European Union and NATO. He has also accused her of promoting "LGBTQ ideology" and threatening Moldova's agricultural sector.
"We are not against Europe, but we want a partnership based on mutual respect," Dodon said in an interview with DW. "We don't want to be dictated to by Brussels or Washington."
Sandu, who has been praised for her efforts to modernize the country's economy and infrastructure, dismissed Dodon's claims as "baseless" and "divisive." She emphasized that Moldova's integration with Europe is essential for its future prosperity.
"Moldova's path to Europe is irreversible," Sandu said in a statement. "We have made significant progress in recent years, and we will continue to work towards a more prosperous and stable future for our citizens."
The election has also been marked by controversy over the role of foreign influence in Moldovan politics. Dodon has accused Soros, a billionaire philanthropist, of backing Sandu's government through his Open Society Foundations.
"Soros is a puppet master who wants to control our country," Dodon said during a campaign rally. "We will not let him dictate our policies."
Sandu's team has denied any wrongdoing and accused Dodon of spreading misinformation.
The election is scheduled for October 25, with voters choosing between Sandu and Dodon in the second round of voting. The outcome is expected to have significant implications for Moldova's future relations with Europe and Russia.
Background:
Moldova, a small landlocked country in Eastern Europe, has been struggling to maintain its independence since gaining sovereignty from the Soviet Union in 1991. The country has historically had close ties with Russia, but in recent years, it has sought to integrate more closely with Europe through various agreements and partnerships.
The election campaign has highlighted deep divisions within Moldovan society over the country's future direction. While some citizens are eager to see their country become a full member of the European Union, others prefer closer ties with Moscow.
Additional Perspectives:
Moldova's opposition parties have also been critical of Sandu's government, accusing it of authoritarianism and corruption. The Socialist Party, led by Vladimir Plahotniuc, has called for greater transparency in government and an end to what they see as "oligarchic rule."
The election is being closely watched by international observers, who are monitoring the campaign for signs of electoral irregularities or foreign interference.
Current Status:
With just over a week to go before the second round of voting, both candidates are intensifying their campaigns. Sandu's team has launched a series of rallies and events across the country, while Dodon's supporters have been holding protests in Chisinau, the capital city.
The outcome of the election is far from certain, with many predicting a close contest between the two main contenders.
*Reporting by Dw.*
