WASHINGTON (ChatnewsTV) — The United States has praised the people of Moldova for turning out in record numbers in Sunday’s presidential election and referendum on European Union accession, despite attempts by Russia to undermine the process, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Monday.
“The Government of Moldova and the Central Election Commission ensured the election was well-managed and competitive, despite serious attempts by Russia to undermine the integrity of the process,” Blinken said in a statement, referencing findings by the OSCE/ODIHR Observation Mission.
Moldovans voted overwhelmingly to amend their constitution to move forward with EU accession, a move Blinken hailed as an expression of the country’s sovereign right to determine its future. He added that Russia had made extensive efforts to disrupt the election through illicit financing, vote buying, disinformation, and cyberattacks.
“Russia did everything in its power to disrupt the election and referendum to undermine Moldova’s democracy,” Blinken said.
Looking ahead to Moldova’s runoff presidential election on November 3, Blinken expressed concerns that Russia may continue its efforts to interfere. He reiterated the United States’ commitment to supporting Moldova’s pursuit of a credible, transparent, and democratic process.
“The United States stands with the Moldovan people in their desire for a secure, prosperous, and democratic future,” Blinken said.
The runoff election will determine Moldova’s next president, as the country seeks to solidify its path toward deeper integration with Europe.
