Moldova's Pro-West Party Claims Election Victory Despite Urban Setbacks

Moldova's pro-European ruling Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS), led by President Maia Sandu, emerged as the winner in hundreds of local elections but faced setbacks in big cities, failing to secure mayoral seats. The elections were marred by allegations of foreign meddling and the exclusion of a pro-Russian party. The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) reported distorted campaigning due to illicit and foreign funds influencing voters' choices. Moldovan authorities accused Russia of buying votes, while the OSCE criticized the decision to bar the Chance party, limiting voters' choices. Sandu's party won mayoral seats in rural areas but failed to gain control of major cities. The election outcome reaffirms Moldova's pro-European stance as it seeks to join the EU and distance itself from Russia.