Moldova's incumbent President and presidential candidate Maia Sandu engaged in a conversation with journalists following her participation in a televised election debate ahead of the presidential runoff in Chisinau, Moldova, on Sunday. REUTERS
Moldovan President Maia Sandu voiced her support for Georgians striving for a European future after the pro-Moscow ruling party declared victory in Georgia's parliamentary election. The election held on Saturday has been tainted by allegations of electoral irregularities, prompting opposition parties and Western allies to challenge the results.
Georgia's President Salome Zourabichvili addressed the public during an interview in Tbilisi on Monday, following the recent parliamentary elections. REUTERS
President Zourabichvili urged citizens to protest the election results, where the ruling Georgian Dream party secured nearly 54% of the vote, according to the election commission. This party has strengthened Georgia's connections with Russia.
"Moldova stands with all Georgians fighting for freedom, democracy, and a European future," Sandu stated on X after discussions with Zourabichvili. Both former Soviet states faced critical elections within a week, closely monitored by the West, which viewed them as a decision point between a European trajectory and reverting to Russia's influence.
On October 20, Moldovans cast their votes for the next president and participated in a referendum on EU accession. The electoral campaign was overshadowed by allegations of Russian interference and vote buying. Sandu did not secure a majority and will face a runoff on November 3 against former prosecutor-general Alexandr Stoianoglo, who is supported by a traditionally pro-Russian party and pledges to foster relations with both Russia and the EU for the benefit of ordinary Moldovans.
In the referendum, 50.46% of voters favored EU accession. Russia denies any involvement in the Moldova and Georgia elections, instead accusing the West of interference.
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