Moldovans are voting on Sunday in a presidential election that has been overshadowed by meddling allegationsm Reuters reports.
Pro-Western incumbent Maia Sandu, who has accelerated the nation’s push to leave Moscow’s orbit and join the EU, faces Alexandr Stoianoglo, an ex-prosecutor general backed by the traditionally pro-Russian Socialist Party.
Polling stations opened at 7 a.m. (0500 GMT) and close at 9 p.m. (1900 GMT).
Moldova’s future has been thrown into the political and diplomatic spotlight as the war in neighbouring Ukraine rages to the east.
Stoianoglo says he supports EU integration but also wants to develop ties with Russia in the national interest. He wants to try to revive cheap Russian gas supplies and said he would meet with President Vladimir Putin if Moldovans wanted it.
“I voted for a free, stable and blossoming Moldova that isn’t standing with its hand out, but develops in harmony based on relations with the West and East,” he said after casting his ballot.
