Moldova's pro-European Action and Solidarity party (PAS), led by President Maia Sandu, holds a commanding lead with 43% of votes after more than 60% of ballots have been counted in the parliamentary elections, according to the Central Election Commission.
The pro-Russian Patriotic Electoral Bloc secured second place with 28% of the vote. With 730,511 votes counted from 1,424 polling stations representing 62.62% of precincts as of 22:59, the results indicate a decisive pro-European victory, the Central Election Commission reports.
Two other pro-European parties cleared the parliamentary threshold: Alternative with 8% and Democracy at Home with 6%. The left-populist Our Party, which promotes Euroscepticism, also secured 6%. All other political forces failed to meet the electoral threshold.
More than 1.5 million people participated in the vote, with turnout reaching 51.9% of registered voters. The election saw participation from 15 parties, four electoral blocs, and four independent candidates.
The outcome carries significant weight for Moldova's future direction. As a parliamentary republic, these elections will determine both the country's foreign policy course and domestic agenda.
President Sandu narrowly won reelection in 2024's presidential race. Prior to the vote on 28 September, she warned that Russia was preparing unprecedented interference in the parliamentary elections.
Election day was marked by security concerns. Police detained three individuals who allegedly planned to incite unrest in Chisinau after voting concluded. Additionally, Moldova's Foreign Ministry reported bomb threats at overseas polling stations during the voting process.
