Moldova votes in election, EU referendum amid alleged Russian interference
Moldova's upcoming presidential election and EU referendum on Oct. 20 are seen as critical in determining its future direction toward European Union integration.
Pro-Western incumbent Maia Sandu is leading in the polls, but if she doesn't reach the 50% threshold, a runoff will take place on Nov. 3.
Sandu also hopes for a strong "yes" vote in the referendum to solidify EU accession as a constitutional goal.
Allegations of Russian meddling have recently surfaced, with pro-Russian oligarch Ilan Shor accused of trying to influence voters to oppose Sandu.
Over $15 million in Russian funds have been funneled to over 130,000 Moldovans, with voters instructed on how to vote and spread disinformation about the EU via Telegram.
Shor, a Moldovan-Israeli tycoon, was accused of laundering the money and orchestrating the network, despite his political party being banned.
Despite these developments, police are confident that any interference will not significantly affect the election outcome.
Dmytro Basmat
Related posts:
Inside Russia’s € 150 million propaganda blitz to undermine Moldova’s EU path
Sandu wins in Moldova despite 'unprecedented' Russian interference
How Russia attempted to steal Moldovan election, referendum, and what comes next?
Sandu claims 300,000 votes bought in “fraud of unprecedented scale” at first round of Moldova’s presidential election
US offers $10 million reward for information on Russian media organization accused of election interference
Sandu leads in 1st round of Moldovan elections, voters reject EU referendum
Opinion: Moldova's EU integration referendum hangs in the balance, highlighting the dangers of oversimplification
'Unprecedented interference' by Russia, its proxies in Moldova referendum, EU says
About The Author
