Moldova on Alert: Sandu Warns of Russian Election Plot

Moldovan President Maia Sandu has issued a stark warning, accusing Russia of preparing an “unprecedented interference” campaign to destabilize the country ahead of its pivotal parliamentary elections on September 28. The accusation came after an emergency meeting of the Supreme Security Council, escalating political tensions in a nation increasingly polarized between pro-European and pro-Russian forces.

President Sandu claimed that Moscow is leveraging platforms like Telegram to organize protests and sow chaos. This alarm comes as her ruling pro-European PAS party faces a significant drop in public support. Recent polls suggest that two-thirds of the electorate are dissatisfied with the current government, largely due to soaring prices for gas, electricity, and heating. The public’s discontent was palpable during Sandu’s recent trip to London, where she was confronted by Moldovan expatriates over the economic hardships their families face back home.

The upcoming election is being framed by observers as a direct geopolitical referendum. “Voters are no longer voting based on platforms, but on geopolitical views,” noted sociologist Vasile Catargi. Seizing on this sentiment, Moldova’s pro-Russian opposition is consolidating its power. One major bloc has formed around former presidents Vladimir Voronin and Igor Dodon, who openly advocate for strengthening ties with Moscow. Another rising force is the “Alternative” party, led by the popular Chisinau mayor, Ion Ceban, who champions European integration but insists on maintaining good relations with Russia.

Adding another layer of complexity is the recent arrest in Greece of fugitive oligarch Vlad Plahotniuc. Sandu has linked Plahotniuc to the Kremlin, noting his past visits to Moscow. However, his potential extradition is a double-edged sword. While the government officially seeks his return to face criminal charges, there are fears in Chisinau that his testimony could implicate figures within the ruling PAS party, potentially derailing their election campaign. The opposition, in turn, fears he could be used to falsely link them to his schemes and discredit them before the vote.

The growing tensions have drawn international attention. Romanian President Nicușor Dan acknowledged the high stakes, respecting the Moldovan people’s right to choose their future while hoping the pro-European course continues. In a more direct show of support, Estonia has pledged €550,000 to help Moldova combat Russian disinformation and cyber threats. Domestically, authorities are visibly preparing for potential unrest. Moldova’s national police announced that its “Fulger” special forces brigade will conduct tactical exercises, deploying newly acquired armored vehicles.