Sandu wins election in Moldova: how the world reacted and what provocations Russia was accused of

Maia Sandu, the incumbent president of Moldova, won the regular elections with over 55% of the vote. Her opponent was former Prosecutor General Alexandr Stoianoglo, who represented the pro-Russian Party of Socialists and received 44.6% of the vote.

Sandu thanked the voters and noted that Moldova had taught a lesson in democracy that deserves a place in history books. OBOZ.UA reports on the election results and the world's reaction.

As of 14:30, 100% of the votes have been counted in Moldova: Maia Sandu received 55.33%, her rival, Alexandr Stoianoglo, 44.67%, according to the CEC.

On the night of November 4, the president delivered a video address in which she called the election results a victory for freedom, truth, and justice.

"Today you have saved Moldova. No one made a mistake in our choice of a decent future. Freedom, truth, and justice have won. Moldova managed to demonstrate its will and strength through the vote of each of us. We proved that united, we can defeat those who wanted to bring us to our knees," Sandu said.

She also spoke about the challenges her team faced during the campaign, including an "unprecedented attack" on Moldova's democracy. The president spoke about the use of "dirty money," illegal vote buying and disinformation, as well as the involvement of foreign forces that tried to influence the will of the Moldovan people.

These elections were held in a difficult political situation due to concerns about possible external interference. The Moldovan authorities accused Russia of trying to influence the results of the elections and the referendum on EU accession, which took place simultaneously. To reduce this influence, the number of polling stations in Russia was reduced, and the EU provided assistance to ensure the cybersecurity of the electoral process.

Reaction of world leaders

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy congratulated Maia Sandu on her victory and noted that the citizens of Moldova had chosen the path to economic growth and social stability.

"I congratulate Maia Sandu on winning the presidential election in Moldova. Ukraine supports the European choice of the people of Moldova and is ready to work together to strengthen our partnership. The citizens of Moldova have made a clear choice – they have chosen the path to economic growth and social stability. Only true security and a peaceful, united Europe can guarantee every person and every family the opportunity to face tomorrow with hope and confidence," he said.

The President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen also supported Sandu, emphasizing the importance of working with her for Moldova's European future.

"It takes rare strength to overcome the challenges you faced in these elections. I am happy to continue working with you for the European future of Moldova and its people," von der Leyen emphasized.

French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized in his congratulations that Moldova's democratic choice had triumphed over all manipulations and interference.

"France will continue to support Moldova on its European path," Macron assured.

The President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, emphasized the leadership and courage that Sandu showed in defending the interests of her people.

"Europe will continue to support Moldova on this path," she said.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also congratulated the Moldovan leader, praising her ability to lead the country through difficult times and support the European course of development.

"We stand by Moldova's side. Congratulations on your re-election as president!" he emphasized.

As a reminder, the aggressor country Russia organized transportation for Moldovan citizens staying in Russia so that they could vote in the presidential election at home. Thus, the Russians brought about 150 people to vote.

Earlier it was reported that on November 1, citizens across Moldova received anonymous calls with death threats. Moldovans also received emails allegedly on behalf of the ruling Action and Solidarity Party (PAS) calling for votes for the current president, Maia Sandu.

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!