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In Moldova, today, two important decisions are being voted on that will determine the path to the European Union of the country neighboring Ukraine. Moldovans are voting in presidential elections, where the current pro-Western president, Maia Sandu, is the favorite. 11 candidates compete in the race. And today, a referendum is being held, to include or not in the Constitution, the objective of the country to become a member of the European Union. The elections are held amid ongoing announcements by Moldovan authorities that Moscow has intensified a "hybrid warfare" campaign to destabilize the country and damage its path to the EU.
Moldovans vote today to elect the country's new president and hold a referendum that are seen as key moments to strengthen the country's efforts to become part of the European Union. These developments come amid reports of Russian interference in the elections.
The current president, Maia Sandu, is the favorite to secure another term in a presidential race in which 11 candidates are competing. And today, a referendum is being held, to include or not in the Constitution, the objective of the country to become a member of the European Union.
According to a survey conducted by an independent institute, over 50 percent of voters support the country's European path.
As she cast her vote in Moldova's capital Chisinau, Ms Sandu urged voters to take part in the polls.
"I voted for Moldova to be able to progress in peace and freedom, so that Moldova can build the future it wants and deserves. Go out and vote! Every vote counts. Our vote for the referendum will determine our fate for many decades to come," she declared.
Her main rival Aleksandr Stoianoglo said he had not voted for the referendum.
"Moldova needs a different government, its citizens must be respected regardless of ethnicity, age, political views, or religion. I did not participate in the referendum. I do not support the position of the current government, which has come up with an idea that has nothing to do with the European Union itself. This is a referendum on changing the constitution. But at the same time, I am a supporter of Moldova's European aspirations", he declared.
If Ms Sandu fails to win a sufficient majority, a run-off will be held on November 3. Expectations are that she will face Alexandr Stoianoglo, the main opposition candidate, a former prosecutor general with pro-Russian leanings.
Moldovans see the elections as an opportunity for the country's progress.
"I expect that we will become part of the European Union, that we students will benefit, that Moldova and all its inhabitants will benefit", says a student.
"I voted for a European country, for a better life, for a better future for our children," says a resident.
The election comes amid continued announcements by Moldovan authorities that Moscow has intensified a "hybrid warfare" campaign to destabilize the country and damage its path to the EU.
The charges include funding pro-Moscow opposition groups, spreading disinformation, meddling in local elections and supporting a massive vote-buying scheme.
White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby echoed those concerns this week, saying in a statement that "Russia is actively working to undermine the elections in Moldova and its European integration." Moscow has repeatedly denied that it is interfering in Moldova.
The former Soviet republic applied to join the EU following Russia's aggression in Ukraine on February 24, 2022. Moldova received candidate country status in the summer of that year, along with Ukraine. Brussels agreed in June to start membership negotiations. /VOA
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