Moldova Votes Narrowly in EU Membership Referendum

Moldova's recent referendum on joining the European Union concluded with a narrow 50.17% majority in favor, amidst serious allegations of foreign interference and electoral fraud. President Maia Sandu accused criminal groups and external forces of attempting to manipulate the vote, citing attempts to buy off 300,000 votes. The referendum coincided with a presidential election where Sandu received 42% of the vote, setting the stage for a run-off against rival Alexandr Stoianoglo, who garnered 26% and boycotted the referendum, calling it a ploy to bolster Sandu's campaign. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov criticized the election environment as 'unfree' and biased, underscoring the contentious political atmosphere. As Moldova progresses towards EU integration, the tight referendum result complicates Sandu's position and raises questions about the nation's commitment to distancing itself from Russian influence. Analysts note that high diaspora turnout may have played a significant role in the referendum's outcome.