Massive Pro-EU and Pro-Government Rallies Draw Tens of Thousands in Moldova

Tens of thousands of Moldovans rallied in the capital Chisinau to support their pro-Western government's drive towards Europe amid what officials have said are Russian efforts to destabilise their country. President Maia Sandu accused Russia of seeking to sabotage its European integration by fuelling anti-government protests and propaganda. Demonstrators called on Moldova's political leaders to amend the constitution to specifically mention the country's European orientation. The leader of the pro-Russian opposition Shor party, exiled businessman Ilan Shor, told his supporters at rival protests in several cities via video link that he would seek a referendum on Moldova's foreign policy.