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Moldova's PAS Secures Landslide Victory, Pushing Away From Russian Influence

Moldova's election results show a clear shift towards the West. Despite challenges, the country is strengthening its institutions and reducing dependence on Russian gas.

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In this image there are sculptures on the wall. At the bottom of the image there is some text.
In this image there are sculptures on the wall. At the bottom of the image there is some text.

Moldova's PAS Secures Landslide Victory, Pushing Away From Russian Influence

Moldova's September 28 parliamentary election saw a significant shift, with President Maia Sandu's Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) winning 50.2% of the vote and 55 seats. Despite losing eight seats, PAS secured a clear victory, reflecting the country's desire to move away from Russian influence.

Moldova's strategic location and potential to cause instability on Europe's border make it a crucial asset for Russia. However, the country is actively reducing its dependence on Russian gas and strengthening its institutions with Western assistance, slowly moving out of Russia's orbit.

The election results highlight societal divides. Kremlin-backed proxies and their allies together gained around 43% of the vote, with Ilan Șor's 'Victory/Pobeda' bloc securing 24%. Șor, convicted for a $1bn bank theft, resides in Moscow and leads the bloc. The 'Victory/Pobeda' bloc includes parties like 'Our Party' and other pro-Russian groups, founded by Renato Usatîi.

Russia's troops in Transnistria and its ammunition stockpile at Cobasna remain vulnerabilities for Moldovan governments. Despite this, the PAS party won 30% of the vote in Transnistria, demonstrating resilience against Moscow's interests in the region. Grigory Karamalak, a sanctioned crime boss, uses diaspora organizations and sports events to exert Kremlin influence.

Moldovan authorities exposed several Russian-linked networks during the election campaign, showcasing improved resilience against foreign interference. This is remarkable, given the challenges faced by parties maintaining power while facing wealthy foreign state interference in early 21st-century southeastern Europe.

President Sandu's victory signals Moldova's intent to continue its pro-Western course. Despite challenges, including Russian influence in Transnistria and pro-Russian political blocs, Moldova is strengthening its institutions and reducing dependence on Russia. The election results underscore the country's commitment to democratic values and its desire to integrate further with the West.

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