The parliamentary elections in Moldova on September 28 became a turning point for the country’s political future. The Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS), led by President Maia Sandu, achieved a confident victory, securing just over 50% of the vote and winning 55 out of 101 seats in parliament. This absolute majority allows the party, for the first time, to form a government without coalition negotiations – a rarity in Moldovan politics.

The election results were perceived as a clear signal from society: the majority of citizens support the course toward integration with the European Union. According to the French foreign minister, the vote represented “confirmation of the Moldovan people’s European choice”. Western analysts share this assessment, calling the election a “turning point” for a country long balancing between Russia and the West.

For Brussels, PAS’s victory opens new opportunities to accelerate talks on closer integration, including within the framework of the EU enlargement program. However, the process will not be easy: reforms in the judiciary, the fight against corruption, and modernization of the economy remain key challenges.

On the eve of the elections, Moldovan authorities detained 74 people suspected of preparing unrest aimed at destabilizing the country. According to law enforcement, the funding came from Russia. The prime minister accused Moscow of systematic attempts at interference – ranging from cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns to vote buying.

Although the Kremlin traditionally denies such allegations, Western observers believe that Russia still views Moldova as part of its sphere of influence and is unwilling to accept the strengthening of pro-European forces in Chișinău.

Despite its convincing victory, PAS faces difficult tasks:

- Economy: high inflation and dependence on external markets are creating social tensions;

- Energy security: Chișinău seeks to reduce dependence on Russian gas, but alternative sources remain limited;

- Social divide: part of the population continues to orient itself toward Russia, particularly in regions where pro-Russian parties still hold influence.

In addition, the extradition and return to the country of oligarch Vladimir Plahotniuc – a figure symbolizing the “theft of the century” and systemic corruption – could become a new trial for the authorities. His presence in Moldova may reignite debate about the elites’ real readiness for deep reforms.

PAS’s victory opens the door to a potential breakthrough in reforms and EU integration. At the same time, external pressure is intensifying: Russia is unlikely to leave Moldova alone and will seek new levers of influence.

Thus, for Maia Sandu and her team, this is a window of opportunity: either the country consolidates its European choice and begins accelerated integration with the EU, or it risks becoming mired in old problems – corruption, energy dependence, and geopolitical confrontation.

In conclusion, Moldova has made its choice: a course toward Europe. The main intrigue now is whether the government can justify public trust and turn electoral success into real transformation of the country.

#MOLDOVA

29.09.2025 08:07