The Republic of Moldova faces crucial risks of foreign interference ahead of the parliamentary elections. The Kremlin may attempt to destabilize the situation by illegally financing parties, organizing paid protests, and launching cyberattacks. President Maia Sandu warned on the program “La 360 de grade” on Radio Moldova that state institutions stand ready to counter electoral fraud attempts.
“During these elections, Moldovans must decide for Moldova, not someone’s money, regardless of origin. People who sell their votes sell their country. It must be very clear. It is our country, our land, and we are responsible for its future. Voting is a right and a responsibility, and we must be aware of this. Those who sell their votes will face sanctions,” Sandu stated.
Although the law prohibits foreign funds, and state institutions act to block such practices, Maia Sandu warned that as the elections approach, attempts to introduce broader sums through various methods may increase. When asked about priests’ involvement in the election campaign, the head of state reiterated that they must follow the law and avoid becoming tools of foreign influence.
FOR THE MOSTÂ IMPORTANT NEWS, FOLLOW US ONÂ TWITTER!
“Priests must understand that they are citizens of this country and share the same responsibilities as other citizens. If they follow orders from abroad, they break the law and must face sanctions. They should realize that they serve in this country and must respect both the country and its laws,” Sandu added.
According to Radio Moldova, the 2024 elections in the Republic of Moldova saw attempts at foreign influence and voter bribery, as reported by authorities and international observers. Officials identified multiple cases of external interference in the electoral process, including disinformation campaigns and illicit funding from the criminal group led by Ilan Shor, aimed at supporting specific candidates. Authorities also confirmed that starting in September 2022, massive flows of illegal money entered Moldova from the Russian Federation—initially through smuggling or cryptocurrencies and later through a Russian bank under international sanctions.
According to the latest data presented by the head of the General Police Inspectorate (GPI), over 300,000 Moldovan voters became targets of bribery attempts through various methods during last year’s presidential elections and the pro-EU referendum.