Geopolitical Landscape - Pro-EU party secured a majority in Parliament, despite pre-vote contestation from the pro-Moscow Patriotic Bloc [1][2] - Russian interference was significant, including government banning of parties funded by a fugitive billionaire in Moscow [3] - Moldova is strategically important to Russia, being close to Ukraine and Odessa, with a pro-Russian separatist territory [4] - Russia aims to hinder Moldova's EU integration, a goal not easily relinquished [5] EU Involvement - The EU is committed to Moldova's integration, investing significantly to create tangible benefits for Moldovan voters [5] - The Moldovan government is actively meeting the requirements for joining the EU [6] - The EU is acting geopolitically, aware of the risks of a pro-Russian government near Odessa [8] Future Outlook - Moldova has a decent chance of meeting EU requirements within the next three years, given its connection to Romania [7]

Speaking to The Economist, Maia Sandu, Moldova’s pro-EU president, says that Russia is aiming to “take control” of the part-Romanian-speaking, part-Russian-speaking country https://t.co/ybIi0Vbstv ...