Moldova is gearing up for a crucial parliamentary election on Sunday, but officials warn Russia is actively trying to interfere. President Maia Sandu said the Kremlin is spending “hundreds of millions of euros” to buy votes, spread online disinformation, and stir unrest. She warned that a pro-Russian government could threaten the whole region.
Moldova has faced Russian meddling for decades, but experts say the current campaign is more intense. Russia is using cash, cryptocurrency, and coordinated social media tactics, especially on TikTok, to support the pro-Russian Patriotic Bloc. They also try to confuse pro-EU voters by promoting candidates with suspected Russian ties.
Last year, Russia-linked networks tried to bribe voters during Moldova’s presidential election and EU membership referendum. This included threats at overseas polling stations. Despite these efforts, Sandu won a narrow victory, and Moldova moved closer to the EU.
Authorities are countering these tactics. Police dismantled a network trained to use violence against police before and after elections. Analysts warn that disinformation could escalate to broader unrest, especially if a fragmented parliament makes Moldova vulnerable to manipulation.
Sandu’s party may need coalition partners, leaving room for potential disruption, but Moldova has proven resilient against Russia’s past attempts.
