How Moldova Managed To Protect Democracy From Russian Interference

• 24.10.2025, 12:53

Success was made possible by three key strategies.

Small but determined Moldova managed to defend democracy and European course despite massive Russian interference in the parliamentary elections held on September 28, writes Atlantic Council (translated by Charter97. org.org).

Moldovan President Maya Sandu's Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) won, beating pro-Russian forces that Chisinau says tried to disrupt the vote through cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, vote-buying and pressure on election participants. According to Sandu, Moscow funneled hundreds of millions of euros to weaken the pro-European party - a huge sum for a country of about 2.4 million people.

The success of PAS was made possible by three key strategies.

First, the party built the trust of citizens by demonstrating a commitment to the European path. PAS actively cooperated with Western partners, provided training, and secured a referendum that enshrined the desire for EU membership in the constitution.

Second, the authorities addressed vulnerabilities by emphasizing energy independence from Russia, buying gas from Romania and the EU, and strengthening cybersecurity.

Third, the PAS campaign offered voters an economic alternative to Russian influence - prosperity through integration into European trade, energy and transport.

Moldova's election has set an important example for its neighbors, including Ukraine. Despite pressure from the Kremlin, the country proved that strong leadership, the support of allies and citizens' faith in democracy can protect it even from hybrid attacks.

Maya Sandu said after the victory, "Moldova has shown that it has made a choice in favor of Europe - it is a choice for the future."