Moldova is preparing for the second round of its presidential election on Sunday, a pivotal event that presents voters with a choice between aligning more closely with Europe or reverting to Russian influence. Current President Maia Sandu, who is pro-European, is up against Alexandr Stoianoglo, a former chief prosecutor whom she dismissed. Stoianoglo has pledged to maintain a balanced foreign policy that accommodates both Western interests and Russia, receiving support from the pro-Russian Party of Socialists.

Sandu and Moldovan officials have raised alarms about a fugitive oligarch residing in Russia who they allege is attempting to manipulate the election in favor of Moscow. The Kremlin has dismissed these accusations, similar to its denials during last weekend’s controversial elections in Georgia, where the president labeled the voting process as a “Russian special operation.” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated firmly that Russia is not interfering.

In the first round of voting two weeks ago, Sandu secured 42.4% of the votes, significantly ahead of Stoianoglo’s 26%, but fell short of the necessary majority for an outright win. Stoianoglo’s support might grow as he appeals to voters from eliminated candidates.

Stoianoglo has presented himself as an “apolitical president” with aspirations for security, peace, and prosperity while promoting a “truly European model.” However, analysts warn that his potential victory could drastically alter Moldova’s political environment due to Russian backing. Former Defense Minister Anatol Salaru emphasized that this election will determine Moldova’s path toward European integration or a return to Russian influence.

Moldova, a former Soviet republic bordered by Ukraine and Romania and among Europe’s least wealthy nations, has around 2.5 million residents. An additional 1.2 million Moldovans living abroad may play a crucial role in this runoff election. The country has initiated discussions about joining the European Union and narrowly voted to amend its constitution to reflect commitment toward EU membership on the same day as the first voting round.

Despite these developments, reports indicate attempts to buy votes are ongoing. Some voters have claimed they sold their votes for up to 1,000 roubles (£8). Authorities noted that fugitive oligarch Ilan Shor had transferred $39 million (£30 million) from Moscow into Moldovan accounts recently, allegedly benefiting around 138,000 voters in exchange for political support against EU membership.

Stoianoglo distanced himself from Shor while maintaining his alliance with the pro-Russian opposition party led by former president Igor Dodon. A third-party candidate who placed third has refrained from endorsing either main candidate, urging his supporters to make their own decisions, further complicating the electoral landscape.