Why Maia Sandu’s Victory is Brussels’ Victory as well
The resounding victory of President Maia Sandu's Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) in Moldova's parliamentary elections is not just a domestic triumph, but a geopolitical statement. By securing over 50% of the vote, Moldovans have chosen the path of democracy, the rule of law, transparency, and European integration, rejecting the alternative of Moscow's influence.
Why this matters and why it's a win for Brussels
1. Strengthening democracy and the rule of law
Under Sandu's leadership, Moldova has advanced reforms aimed at combating corruption, strengthening judicial independence, and reducing the influence of oligarchs. These are precisely the reforms the European Union has championed in its neighborhood. By reaffirming trust in Sandu's party, citizens have endorsed this reformist path.
2. Resistance to Russian hybrid warfare
Russia's strategy has long relied on hybrid tools disinformation campaigns, cyberattacks, vote-buying, economic coercion, even threats to the energy supply. In the lead-up to the elections, Moldova faced cyberattacks, illegal funding, and disinformation, all intended to undermine trust in democratic institutions. Additionally, Moscow has tried to exploit energy dependence, using gas and electricity pressure in the region as a lever of influence. That pressure is less effective when a population is united behind a clear European mandate. Despite those efforts, the Moldovan electorate held firm. This outcome illustrates that hybrid tools have limits when confronted with cohesive domestic resolve and international backing.
3. A strategic setback for Moscow
In choosing Sandu's PAS, Moldovans have effectively thwarted a Russian plan to reassert influence over Chisinau. This is a political setback, and it's a symbolic blow: a clear signal that even in a vulnerable border state, Kremlin pressure can be resisted. As Reuters put it, it is "a major boost for the country's bid to join the EU and break away from Moscow's orbit."
4. Consolidation of the EU's eastern flank and credibility
For Brussels, this victory validates the Union's strategy of supporting its Eastern European neighbors. It demonstrates that the European model of democracy, the rule of law, and integration can compete effectively even in contested zones. It also reinforces the narrative that the EU is not merely a distant club, but a practical and stabilizing force in its periphery.
5. Momentum for EU integration
With a strengthened mandate, Sandu's government is better positioned to align laws, standards, and institutions with the EU acquis. This brings Moldova closer to eventual EU membership, benefiting both Chisinau and Brussels. A stronger, democratic Moldova also contributes to regional stability, which is in the interest of all EU states.
Moscow lost, here's why
- Moscow's interference cannot replace legitimate popular support. No amount of propaganda or financial inducement can entirely override citizens' sense of identity, rights, and future aspirations.
- The hybrid machinery can sow doubt and confusion, but it struggles to mobilize genuine enthusiasm, especially when people see the alternative: autocratic control, reduced freedoms, shadow influence.
- Energy coercion loses potency when the target country diversifies supplies, pursues efficiency, and secures external alliances.
- External support (diplomatic backing, observer missions, statements from EU leaders) strengthens internal resilience. Voters know their choice is watched — and that their act has weight beyond domestic boundaries.
- In this case, the opposition to Sandu was split, and pro-Russian forces failed to unify enough to pose a credible alternative. PAS's clarity of purpose and consistent message gave them a significant advantage.
Voices from Brussels
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, celebrated the result, stating:
"Moldova, you've done it again. No attempt to sow fear or division could break your resolve. You made your choice clear: Europe. Democracy. Freedom. Our door is open. And we will stand with you every step of the way."