Maia Sandu Re-elected President of Moldova

Maia Sandu has been re-elected as President of Moldova, securing approximately 54.9% of the vote in a run-off against pro-Russian candidate Alexandr Stoianoglo, who received 45%. This election comes on the heels of a successful EU referendum, affirming Moldova's pro-European trajectory. European leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen and Emmanuel Macron, praised Sandu's victory as a triumph of democracy over Russian interference, which both her and the government have accused of attempting to sway the election. Sandu, who first took office in 2020, has expressed a commitment to furthering Moldova's integration with the EU, having recently begun negotiations for membership. Her victory is seen as a relief for the West and pro-European reformers in Moldova, especially given the tense political atmosphere. Sandu emphasized unity and resilience in her victory speech, highlighting the democratic will of the Moldovan people.