Moldova's election result boosts move towards EU and away from Moscow

"Moldova's pro-European ruling party held on to its parliamentary majority after Sunday's pivotal election, strengthening the country of 2.4 million's bid to move towards the EU and away from Moscow. With more than 99.9% of ballots counted, president Maia Sandu's pro-western Action and Solidarity party (PAS) had 50.03% of the vote, putting it on track to win 55 of the 101 seats in parliament."

"where there had been fears that Moscow could regain a foothold in a strategically vital region as it steps up its hybrid campaign across the continent. The European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, wrote on X: Moldova, you've done it again. No attempt to sow fear or division could break your resolve. She added: You made your choice clear: Europe. Democracy. Freedom. Our door is open. And we will stand with you every step of the way."

Maia Sandu's pro-western Action and Solidarity Party (PAS) secured 50.03% of the vote and is projected to win 55 of 101 parliamentary seats, preserving its majority. A Moscow-leaning alliance led by former president Igor Dodon received about 24.26% of the vote. PAS outperformed polls that had suggested it might lose its majority, protecting the government's ability to pursue EU membership ambitions. Power is shared between the directly elected president and a prime minister appointed by parliament, with PAS leader Igor Grosu expected to become prime minister. European capitals welcomed the result, though reforms and the Transnistria issue still complicate the EU accession path.

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