Pro-EU incumbent Maia Sandu has claimed victory in Moldova's presidential runoff against her rival, who seeks close ties with Russia. In her second term, Sandu is expected to continue pushing for her country's participation in the European Union.

Moldova's election board says that with most ballots counted in the runoff on Sunday, Sandu had garnered 54.95 percent of the vote, compared with 45.05 percent for Alexandr Stoianoglo, a former prosecutor general.

Declaring her victory, Sandu promised that she will be the president for all Moldovans.

The focus of the election was on whether people in the former Soviet republic would seek the continuation of pro-EU policies.
Many in Moldova support the country's bid to join the EU, while others prioritize its historic and economic ties to Russia.

Moldova's EU membership bid accelerated after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. In June this year, Moldova formally started membership talks with the EU.

The Moldovan government is criticizing Russia, which has been accused of meddling in the election to prevent Moldova from joining the EU.