In a closely contested referendum, Moldovan voters have narrowly approved changes to the country’s constitution, affirming the nation’s commitment to joining the European Union. With 99.6% of votes counted, the “Yes” camp secured 50.46% of the vote, while 49.54% opposed the changes.
The tight result has surprised many, as the referendum was expected to pass easily in this Eastern European country of 2.6 million, which borders Romania and Ukraine. Voter turnout exceeded 51%, making the vote valid, despite allegations of foreign interference and vote-buying.
Incumbent pro-EU president Maia Sandu, who also faced a challenging presidential election in which she failed to secure outright re-election, called the referendum outcome a victory but warned of external forces trying to undermine Moldova’s democracy. While Sandu did not explicitly mention Russia, Moldovan authorities recently exposed a vote-buying scheme linked to Moscow, aimed at swaying the referendum against EU membership.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed these accusations, demanding evidence of foreign involvement. EU officials echoed Sandu’s concerns, highlighting the unprecedented level of interference in the vote.
The referendum and presidential elections are seen as critical junctures for Moldova’s future, as the country grapples with the decision to align more closely with the EU or maintain ties with Russia. Sandu will face a second-round presidential vote on 3 November against pro-Russian candidate Aleksandr Stoianoglo, after leading the first round with 41% of the vote.
