Moldova held both a presidential election and a referendum on joining the European Union (EU). Incumbent President Maia Sandu, a pro-EU advocate, is expected to win. If no candidate receives 50% of the vote, a runoff is scheduled for November 3 against Alexandr Stoianoglo, a pro-Russian candidate.
In the referendum, voters are deciding whether EU integration should be the country’s strategic goal. Sandu urged citizens to vote, calling it a decision that would shape Moldova’s future. Allegations surfaced that businessman Ilan Shor attempted to bribe voters to reject EU membership.